By: Candice Carlson & Josh Edwards

What is Alzheimer’s? Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia Problems with memory, thinking, and behavior. Symptoms develop slowly, worsen over time. Alzheimer’s accounts for 50 to 80 percent of dementia cases. The sixth leading cause of death in the United States.

Progressive Disease Worsens over time Mild memory loss Decreased ability to carry on a normal conversation Respond to environment Survival Range from four to 20 years No cure Medications to improve quality of life.

Symptoms Disorientation Mood and behavior changes Confusion about events, time and place Unfounded suspicions about family, friends, and professional caregivers. Serious memory loss. Difficulty speaking, swallowing, and walking

Risk Factors Age Family history Genetics Head trauma Heart-head connection General healthy aging Avoid tobacco, excess alcohol Stay socially connected Exercise mind and body

Signs Memory loss that disrupts daily life. Challenges in planning or solving problems Difficulty completing familiar tasks Confusion with time or place Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships

Signs Continued.. New problems with words in speaking or writing Misplacing things and inability to retrace steps. Poor judgment Withdrawal from work or social activities Changes in mood and personality

Stages Stage one: No impairment Normal function Stage two: Very mild cognitive decline Occasional memory lapses Stage three: Mild cognitive decline Misplacing objects, trouble organizing, remembering names of new people Stage four: Moderate cognitive decline Forgetfulness of recent events, one’s own personal history, and becoming moody or

Stages Continued.. Stage five: Moderately severe cognitive decline Confused about day/location, unable to recall own address or telephone number Still remember significant details about self and family, no assistance with eating or restroom Stage six: Severe cognitive decline Lose awareness, difficulty with personal history, remembering names of friends and family Trouble controlling bowels and bladder, need help in restroom Tend to wander or become lost

Stages Continued.. Stage seven: Very severe cognitive decline Inability to respond to environment, carry on a conversation, and control movement Need help with personal care Loss of ability to smile, sit without support, or hold heads up

Treatment NO CURE!!!