Alzheimer's is a heartbreaking disease. The classic symptom of Alzheimer's is when a person loses their memory gradually. Over time, many years perhaps, it even destroys their personal identity. There is some light at the end of the tunnel with life-saving treatments that are on the horizon that may be able to alter this condition.
November is a month dedicated to recognizing and educating on Alzheimer's disease and honoring those who have and are having to battle this terrible disease, along with the family members by their sides. You will learn about the causes of Alzheimer's, vital statistics, what types of caregivers treat these patients, how the challenges can impact care delivery, and what you can do for Alzheimer's Awareness Month. Please keep reading to learn more about this condition and why it's essential to spread awareness.
What Are the Causes Of Alzheimer's Disease?
The death of brain cells is one of the leading causes of Alzheimer's disease and dementia. This disease works on you throughout time, killing off more and more brain cells. Autopsies have revealed that the brains of Alzheimer's patients sometimes have formed tiny deposits of plaques, which are found between the dying brain cells, and tangles in the nerve cells. The plaque consists of a protein called "beta-amyloid," and the tangles have a composition of a protein referred to as "tau."
Research has come up empty-handed regarding the exact causes of this disease. Many rumors about the causes of Alzheimer's have been stated, and ideas range from types of shampoos to other factors. Another rumor that's floated around is that aluminum was the cause. This was highly questioned in the 60s and 70s. Other speculations, such as drinking from aluminum cans or cooking in aluminum pots, cause the disease have also circulated. However, there's no evidence to support these theories.
How Many People Die From Alzheimer's Disease:
Alzheimer's disease is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. This disease is a fatal type of dementia. This incurable disease tends to increase with the now-aging population of baby boomers. This disease tends to be more destructive for those 75 years or older. Statistics for this are hard to account for because many people die because this disease leads to other causes of death. Still, it's linked to Alzheimer's. In prior years, it has been estimated that 93,500 deaths across the country were due to Alzheimer's.
Specialized Caregivers For Alzheimer's:
When dealing with an Alzheimer's patient, you must familiarize yourself with the history of the patient, where they lived, family memories, favorite things to do, where they worked, where they were born, childhood memories, and anything else that might play a significant part of their memories.
Nurses and physicians collaborate to create care plans and document the particular care the patient is to receive. Depending on the patient's condition - they should assist in their care planning. As the condition of the patient changes, so should the care planning. Care plans should be reviewed, as well as conferences held on behalf of the patient.
Adding To The Problem of Lack of Caregivers:
The increasing number of death of people living with Alzheimer's has only added to the need for more professional healthcare workers. In the advanced stages of this disease, constant care is a must, everything from bathing, eating, getting around the house, basically everything in day-to-day activities, as their mind deteriorates. With this disease adding to the shortage of caregivers, there's a need for more educational programs, case management services, and a better work environment for existing workers to lessen the burden of a highly-demanding workload.
What To Do For Alzheimer's Awareness Month:
With over six million Americans having to fight Alzheimer's, the numbers are still growing along with the aging population. With this being such a catastrophe, We need more support and compassion for the people fighting this disease and all their loved ones and family members going through it with them.
There are things you can do to help this cause during Alzheimer's Awareness Month. Wearing purple is the color of the movement of showing your support. Post it on your Facebook profile, share any activism you might have done or share stories of loved ones that might have had this disease.
There are fundraisers you can participate in through The Alzheimer's Association website, where you will find gaming and exercise, hobbies, sports, parties, and arts. You can use online tools that can assist you in organizing fundraising. Consider becoming a volunteer.
If doing a fundraiser isn't your thing, You can always donate, whether you make a one-time donation or a monthly payment - donating is an excellent way to show your support. You can donate to honor a loved one who battled this disease. This donation is tax-deductible.
