Alzheimer’s Disease

Wednesday, March 6, 2002 

Alzheimer's disease is for many an all too familiar topic. Sometimes called “the long goodbye,” this disease destroys a person's capacity to learn and remember. We’ll learn more today from Dr. Ken Davis.

For many with Alzheimer's disease, it’s easier to remember events of 20 years ago than it is to recall events of 20 minutes ago. Alzheimer's disease occurs in twice as many females as males, and your risk increases with age. Some studies show that 10 percent of those over 65 years of age may be affected to some degree.

Alzheimer’s disease occurs in stages. Family and friends may mistake initial symptoms such as mood change, memory difficulty and increased forgetfulness as signs of stress or simply “getting older."

During the course of the disease, nerve cells that carry information from one part of the brain to another become fouled. It becomes difficult for the person to learn new information, and eventually all cognitive abilities are impaired. The person may become more withdrawn and prone to suffer from depression or anxiety. Alzheimer’s disease robs a person's memory, and it often robs the family of good times with their loved one. For North Mississippi Health Services, I’m Dr. Ken Davis.

Alzheimer’s disease is a complex problem that affects both the individual and the family. Take advantage of the resources available to help. Talk to your doctor or visit www.wtva.com.