Features

ALZHEIMER RELATED DEMENTIAS

Posted on: November 14, 2007

By: Karen S. Dale**, LSW – Care Coordinator for Sisson & Sisson

Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common cause of dementia in older adults. There are a significant number of books and journal articles on different aspects of this disease. Because November is Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, this article will discuss some other related disorders which at first glance mimic Alzheimer’s. They each have a different origin and sequence of symptoms.

Multi-infarct dementia is one type of vascular dementia. Infarct means damaged area and generally refers to the damage caused by transient ischaemic attacks (TIA or small stroke). The damage caused by lots of these small strokes can build up, resulting in symptoms of dementia. Frontotemporal dementia is sometimes known as Pick’s Disease. This is a rare, progressive disease affecting the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. It often begins with behavioral and personality changes rather than the early memory loss usually seen with Alzheimer’s Disease. Affected individuals may exhibit confusion and a general lack of concern about their surroundings. There is a lack of inhibition and a repetitious speech pattern. Dementia with Lewy Body is also known as Lewy Body Dementia, Lewy Body Disease, Diffuse Lewy Body Disease, Cortical Lewy Body Disease, Lewy Body variant of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease with Dementia. Deposits of abnormal proteins called “Lewy Bodies” disrupt brain function. It is noted for visual hallucinations, fluctuating cognition, stiffness of movement and lack of facial expression. Binswanger’s Disease is characterized by progressive loss of recent memory, difficulty with coping, self-centeredness and childish behavior. The inability to retain urine, difficulty walking, tremors and depression are also prominent features. Patients usually show abnormal blood pressure. Creutzfeldt-Jacob Disease is rare and progresses quickly compared to other dementias. As the disease progresses, cognition will decline, involuntary movements appear and muscle contractions may be prominent. The individual may become blind.

TO LEARN MORE AND TO RECEIVE FREE EDUCATIONAL UPDATES CALL (208) 387-0729 or visit us on the web at www.idahoelderlaw.com. Sisson & Sisson is dedicated to serving the needs of older Americans, people with disabilities, and their families. This newsletter is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific questions, you should contact a qualified elder law attorney.

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1. I have started a support group for Alzheimer’s Caregivers and those who are diagnosed with Alzheimers.
   The group is the first and second Tuesday of the Month and have had some new volunteers join us to make this the first support group in a few years.
   Please call for more information 233-2906
   Wendy Rickard
   Alzheimer Therapist
   Alzheimer Association

   As Idaho lacks some of the more progressive treatments for Alzheimers I am also an advocate and ask family members to advocate for current training in Alzheimer and Dementia Therapy with regards to activities and cognitive therapy which increases the dignity and quality of life.
   For more information please call me.

   — Wendy Rickard · Nov 26, 03:16 PM · #

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