ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE

What is Alzheimer's disease?

Alzheimer's disease is a degenerative brain disorder which impairs memory and mental functioning. It usually starts very slowly and is difficult to detect.  There will be short-term memory loss and difficulty in decision making, and simple tasks may take longer to perform as the memory cannot recall easily how to do them.  Symptoms will increase to include disorientation – getting lost in a familiar place, at home or in the neighbourhood: language impairment such as difficulty in finding appropriate words, rambling speech or repetition.  In its advanced stages loss of memory and speech, loss of bowel and bladder control and changes in temperament and demeanour will be more pronounced. There could also be excessive hostility or aggression. Generally, about 10% of the population aged 80 and over are afflicted by Alzheimer's disease.

What causes Alzheimer's?

The medical profession is still not sure exactly what causes Alzheimer's disease.  What is known is that it is marked by a loss of nerve cells in the brain, particularly in the areas controlling memory and thinking.  Family history of the disease can increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's and other possible causes include serious head injury, cardiovascular disease and slow-acting viruses

What can you do about Alzheimer's?

Although there is no known cure for Alzheimer's disease, research is continuing to make inroads into treating the symptoms.  There are a number of supplements which may help to restore mental functioning during the early stages of the disease, and even delay the onset of the symptoms experienced during the advanced stages.  Supplements should be started as soon as possible and may be taken together or individually although it could be eight weeks or so before results are noticed. Supplements can also be used with prescription drugs such as aricept, but this should be done on medical advice. Controlled trials with the herb ginkgo biloba have shown an increase in the blood supply to the brain which helps improve the memory in some patients.  It may have antioxidant properties as well, thus helping to maintain healthy nerve cells.  Other antioxidants that may be beneficial include vitamin C, vitamin E and mixed carotenoids.  These are often combined in convenient preparations. Low levels of vitamin B have also been linked to Alzheimer's disease so a vitamin B complex is recommended, as is evening primrose oil and the herbs gotu kola and ginseng. 

Other things to try include exercise, no matter how little is done. Any form of exercise will help improve mental ability; relaxation techniques, such as yoga, will improve memory and concentration.   Reading and doing puzzles also help to keep the mind active.