Alzheimer's Disease   Clinical Depression

Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's is a disease which causes changes in the brain. These changes begin a mild problems affecting memory, but as Alzheimer's progresses, it can cause serious mental damage.  Alzheimer's affects a person's ability to reason, remember, and communicate.  It is not known what causes Alzheimer's and currently there is no known cure. Ironically, Alzheimer's disease tends to run in families.  In the United States there are four million people that has Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's usually affects people who are 65 years or older.  As people get older, their chances of getting Alzheimer's gradually increases with nearly half of the people in their 80's having Alzheimer's disease.

There are many symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.  One of the first noticeable signs that a person is in the beginning stages of Alzheimer's is memory loss.  The person tends to forget names of people and things that they know very well.  As the disease progresses, people may have trouble remembering how to perform simple tasks such a tying their shoes or combing their hair.  The person may have difficulty communicating, reading, and writing and people have been known to wander away from home.  People demonstrating these signs should consult a doctor for a complete evaluation.

There are medications available that can assist with the memory loss, depression, and anxiety that people with Alzheimer's tend to have.  Currently, there are no medications or treatments available that can cure Alzheimer's, but the medications that are available can help people feel better.    

To get help or support, you can contact the Alzheimer's Association at 1-800-272-3900.  The Alzheimer's Association is a national organization that assists families and caregivers of people with Alzheimer's disease. 

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Clinical Depression

Clinical depression is a brain disorder that affects thoughts, behavior, and physical health.  Depression among senior citizens is a major issue in the United States.  Unfortunately, many older people mistake depression with the natural process of getting older or depression is somehow a character flaw - none of these are true.  Clinical depression is a serious illness that needs medical treatment.

Older people experience many life changes such a losing loved ones or moving.  Sadness and grief are normal temporary reactions to difficult times and hardships, but clinical depression is a disorder that does not go away by itself and needs medical attention.

Many things may cause clinical depression such a environment, stress, psychological factors, and major life changes.  These factors can make a person feel trapped or upset which can trigger depression.

Treatments for clinical depression are good as many people can be treated with medication or psychotherapy. There are services available to help older people, but the problem of clinical depression must be detected before treatment can begin.

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