Forgetting where you put your keys happens to everyone now and then. But, when forgetfulness interferes with activities of daily living -how to get dressed, how to find the way home - it could be Alzheimer's disease.
Alzheimer's is the most common type of dementia in the United States. As with other types of dementia, Alzheimer's is a progressive disorder that leads to worsening of mental functions, such as memory, learning and reasoning. In time, most people with Alzheimer's will need some help with daily activities.
Helping patients function better
There is no cure for Alzheimer's. Several drugs on the market can ease symptoms or slow disease progression. These drugs can improve the quality of life in mild or even moderate to severe Alzheimer's, but they usually only work for a limited time. That time, though, can be very important to the person with Alzheimer's and his/her family.
The available drugs are:
- Cholinesterase inhibitors. These drugs increase the brain chemical acetylcholine that's needed for signaling between brain cells. In people with Alzheimer's, damaged neurons do not make enough acetylcholine. These medications include:
- Donepezil (Aricept)
- Rivastigmine (Exelon)
- Galantamine (Razadyne)
- Disease-modifying agents. The only drug in this class approved by the FDA as of 2007 is manantine (Namenda). This drug may also help slow down the progression of Alzheimer's.
- Behavioral or psychiatric drugs:
- Antipsychotics
- Antidepressants
- Anti-anxiety medications
- Anticonvulsants
There are also medicines that reduce behavioral problems, including agitation, hallucinations and wandering.
How to stay mentally sharp
The Alzheimer's Association recommends that people make "brain healthy" life choices to help keep your brain healthier as you age and potentially reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease or other dementia. Those choices include:
Increase intake of protective foods. Certain foods may cut the risk of heart disease and stroke, and help protect the brain from these diseases.
Antioxidants have been shown in some research to help protect against Alzheimer's. Dark-skinned fruits and vegetables have the highest levels of naturally occurring antioxidants. This includes the vegetables kale, spinach, Brussels sprouts, alfalfa sprouts, broccoli, beets, red bell pepper, onion, corn and eggplant.
Fruits with high antioxidant levels include prunes, raisins, blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, raspberries, plums, oranges, red grapes and cherries.
Cold-water fish including halibut, mackerel, salmon, trout and tuna contain beneficial omega-3 fatty acids.
Some nuts are good sources of vitamin E, an antioxidant. Almonds, pecans and walnuts are best.
Vitamins may be helpful to some. One study showed that vitamin E may help slow the worsening of symptoms in people with moderate Alzheimer's. Other studies, though, have not shown any benefit in people with milder disease.
Stay mentally active. Mentally stimulating activities may help strengthen and preserve brain functioning,
Remain socially active. Social activity not only makes physical and mental activity more enjoyable, it can reduce stress levels.
Stay physically active. Physical exercise is essential to maintain good blood flow to the brain. It also can significantly reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke and diabetes, and protect against those risk factors for certain types of dementia. Make sure you check with your doctor before you increase your activity level.
