5.05.2004
Detecting Alzheimer's early
By: Marcie Fraser
As the the senior population grows so does the number of Alzheimer's patients. If you begin to see signs of forgetfulness, it may be worth keeping an eye on.
Rhenda Campbell of the Alzheimer's Association said, "Not able to remember where they kept their car keys or somebody who's having difficulty managing their checkbook or abstract thinking."
Other early signs of Alzheimer's are problems with personal hygiene, socializing less, angry outbursts, dressing inappropriately, forgetting their shoes or coat in the winter, as well as accusing people of theft.
Campbell said, "If they are suspicious, they might be accusing you of stealing things. Someone's been in the house and took my money."
It may not be possible to prevent Alzheimer's, but involving them in simple, low-stress activities keeps their brain active.
Bridge is out, board games are in. It was thought that Ann Randall, who has Alzheimer's, could no longer read. It was an animated, rhythmic computer program that got her reading again.
At least 4.5 million Americans have Alzheimer's disease. Seven out of 10 still live at home. Stimulating the memory and the brain is easy. Review photo albums often or play simple games.
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As the story suggests, these simple actions can have a remarkable impact.
By: Marcie Fraser
As the the senior population grows so does the number of Alzheimer's patients. If you begin to see signs of forgetfulness, it may be worth keeping an eye on.
Rhenda Campbell of the Alzheimer's Association said, "Not able to remember where they kept their car keys or somebody who's having difficulty managing their checkbook or abstract thinking."
Other early signs of Alzheimer's are problems with personal hygiene, socializing less, angry outbursts, dressing inappropriately, forgetting their shoes or coat in the winter, as well as accusing people of theft.
Campbell said, "If they are suspicious, they might be accusing you of stealing things. Someone's been in the house and took my money."
It may not be possible to prevent Alzheimer's, but involving them in simple, low-stress activities keeps their brain active.
Bridge is out, board games are in. It was thought that Ann Randall, who has Alzheimer's, could no longer read. It was an animated, rhythmic computer program that got her reading again.
At least 4.5 million Americans have Alzheimer's disease. Seven out of 10 still live at home. Stimulating the memory and the brain is easy. Review photo albums often or play simple games.
----------
As the story suggests, these simple actions can have a remarkable impact.
