Alzheimer\'s Disease

Surname1 Name: Tutor: Course: Date:

Alzheimer's Disease Alzheimer's disease is a form of dementia, which was originally diagnosed by Dr. Alois Alzheimer in 1907. Alzheimer’s causes damage to brain cells, which may result to impaired memory, diminished thinking abilities and alteration of an individual’s behavior. Up to date scientific research and studies have not been able to develop medical cure for Alzheimer’s disease. However, medical studies have indicated that the effects and progress Alzheimer’s dementia can be significantly reduced through the provision of soothing, highly structured and consistent environment. Research conducted by Isaacson indicated that soothing music had therapeutic effect on patients suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Soothing music has been observed to aid in recollection of events, which were specifically stored in the autobiographical memory. According to Isaacson, music therapy slows the effects of Alzheimer’s by triggering the release of neurotransmitters and hormones in the brain. These chemicals and signals are designed to enable patients to organize and effectively respond to incoming signals. Patients exposed to stimulative music were observed to move their body parts, tapping their toes and nodding their heads, response actions, which are triggered by brain stimuli. On contrary, sedative music had a calming effect on the patients, lessening their tension. The general effects of these responses could result to development of lost mental abilities by Alzheimer’s patients (Isaacson, 42-45)

Surname2 In addition to soothing music, engaging Alzheimer’s patients in consistent activities could also prevent progression of the disease to more severe stages. Isaacson argued that performance of simple tasks such as bathing, eating and walking in routinely manner with respect to a consistent timeframe and approach may enhance patient’s psychological stability. Patients under routine therapeutic activities are more likely to maintain orientation and limit cases of agitation. Consequently, effective limitation of stress and anxiety levels provides a means by which the patient’s behavior can be manipulated for positive outcome. Alzheimer patients gradually relearn simple tasks and familiarize themselves with their environment through being exposed to consistent house arrangement patterns and activities (Isaacson, 77-79).

Surname3 Work Cited

Isaacson, Richard. Alzheimer's Treatment Alzheimer's Prevention: A Patient and Family Guide. New York, NY; AD Education Consultants, Incorporated. 2012. Print.