MARIA AUXILIADORA UNIVERSITY

FACULTY OF MEDICINE
PRACTICAL WORK

DISCIPLINE: ENGLISH

TOPIC: Alzheimer's

PROF: GRECIA MARGARITA TORRES

MEMBERS of she Geam:

FERREIRA ARAÚJO, TARCIANE
FERREIRA WEBER, SILVÂNIA
SARAIVA LEITE, JOÃO THIAGO
JUSTINO DE SOUZA, LEILA HEVELYN
DE MELO SILVA, DALILA
TRINIDAD SPERANZA, DALMI ALICE
MARROQUES MARQUES, KHADIJA

OCTUBER-2024

PARAGUAY
 INDEX

 Definitión
 Symptoms
 Epidemiology
 Age Range
 Treatment Procedures to Follow
 Prevention
 Make specific questión to the paciente
 Diagnosic of the pacient
 Evaluate the pacient
 Neurologist
 Bibliographic
 Anexos
 Questionare
Definition

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects memory, thinking

and behavior. This is the most common form of dementia and is characterized by the
accumulation of abnormal proteins in the brain, which leads to the death of neurons.

The disease sets in when the processing of certain proteins in the central nervous system starts
to go wrong. Fragments of poorly cut, toxic proteins then appear inside neurons and in the
spaces between them. As a consequence of this toxicity, there is a progressive loss of neurons
in certain regions of the brain, such as the hippocampus, which controls memory, and the
cerebral cortex, essential for language and reasoning, memory, recognition of sensory stimuli
and abstract thinking.

Key features include:

 Accumulation of amyloid plaques: These plaques are formed by abnormal deposits of

beta-amyloid protein, which accumulate between neurons, interfering with cellular
communication.

 Neurofibrillary tangles: They are formed by misfolded tau proteins that aggregate inside
neurons, impairing the transport of nutrients and signaling necessary for cellular
function.

 Inflammation: The immune system's inflammatory response in the brain can contribute
to neuronal degeneration.

 Loss of synapses: Communication between neurons is reduced, resulting in a decrease

in synaptic connections, essential for memory and other cognitive functions.

 Brain atrophy: As the disease progresses, there is a reduction in brain volume, affecting
several regions, especially those related to memory, such as the hippocampus.
Symptoms

Lack of memory for recent events;

Repeating the same question several times;

Difficulty following complex conversations or thoughts;

Inability to develop strategies to solve problems;

Difficulty driving a car and finding familiar paths;

Difficulty finding words that express personal ideas or feelings;

Irritability, unjustified distrust, aggressiveness, passivity, misinterpretations of visual or auditory

stimuli, tendency to isolate.

Memory loss: Difficulty remembering recent information, such as conversations or events, and
loss of past memories.

Disorientation: Confusion about time and place, which can lead to getting lost in familiar places.

Language difficulties: Problems finding words or following a conversation, as well as repeating

phrases.

Alterations in reasoning: Difficulties in solving problems, making decisions or performing tasks

that require critical thinking.

Changes in visual perception: Problems with the interpretation of images and the recognition of
objects or faces.

Behavior and personality changes: There may be changes in mood, anxiety, depression, or
irritability.

Difficulties with daily activities: Problems carrying out everyday tasks, such as dressing, cooking,
or managing finances.
Epidemiology

Prevalence: Alzheimer's disease affects millions of people around the world, being more
common in developed countries.

Incidence rate: Prevalence increases with age, affecting approximately 10% of people aged 65
and over and up to 50% of individuals aged 85 and over.

Alzheimer's disease usually progresses slowly. From diagnosis, average survival varies between
8 and 10 years. The clinical picture is usually divided into four stages:

– Stage 1 (initial form): changes in memory, personality and visual and spatial abilities;

– Stage 2 (moderate form): difficulty speaking, performing simple tasks and coordinating
movements. Agitation and insomnia;

– Stage 3 (severe form): resistance to performing daily tasks. Urinary and fecal incontinence.
Difficulty eating. Progressive motor disability;

– Stage 4 (terminal): restriction to bed. Mutism. Pain when swallowing. Intercurrent infections.

Age Range

Most cases of Alzheimer's occur in people over 65 years of age. However, there are also cases
of early-onset Alzheimer's, which can affect people in their 40s or 50s.
Treatment

There is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, but there are treatments that help alleviate symptoms:

Medicines:

Cholinesterase inhibitors: Such as donepezil, rivastigmine and galantamine, which help improve
cognitive function.

Memantine: A medication that acts on glutamate and can help moderate symptoms.

Therapies: Cognitive and occupational therapies to stimulate the mind and maintain quality of
life.

In a disease that is progressive, it is not always easy to evaluate results. For this reason, it is
essential that family members use a diary to record the evolution of symptoms. Is the memory
better? Are daily tasks completed more easily? Is the condition stable? Does the decline occur
more slowly than before medication? Without these notes it is impossible to assess the
effectiveness of the treatment.

Once started, the treatment needs to be re-evaluated by the doctor after one month, but it must
be maintained for a minimum period of 3 to 6 months, so that one can have an idea of its
effectiveness. As long as the response is favorable, the medication should not be suspended,
and it is essential to take daily doses and observe the prescribed intervals. Irregular
administration compromises the result.
Prevention

Although there is no guaranteed way to prevent the disease, some strategies can help reduce
your risk

Healthy Lifestyle:

Balanced diet, such as the Mediterranean diet.

Regular physical exercise.

Weight control and cardiovascular health.

Mental stimulation:

Learn new skills, read, play strategy games.

Socialization:

Maintain active social relationships and participate in community activities.

Control of risk factors:

Monitor and treat hypertension, diabetes and high cholesterol.

Control

Management of Alzheimer's disease involves ongoing support for patients and their
caregivers:

Education and support: Support groups and information about the disease.

Advance Planning: Discuss wishes for future care and health plans.

Care: Assess the need for assistance at home or in specialized institutions as the disease
progresses.

Alzheimer's is a complex condition that requires a comprehensive approach to its

management and treatment.
STRATEGY FOR ALZHEIMER

Strategies for dealing with Alzheimer's disease can be divided into different categories, aimed
at both managing symptoms and promoting quality of life. Here are some approaches:

1. Medical Treatment

Medications: There are medications that can help control symptoms, such as
acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (e.g. donepezil, rivastigmine) and memantine.

Treatments for associated symptoms: Antidepressants or anxiolytics may be prescribed to treat

anxiety and depression.

2. Healthy Lifestyle

Balanced diet: Diets like the Mediterranean can help protect brain health.

Physical exercise: Regular activities help maintain cardiovascular health and brain function.

Mental stimulation: Games, reading and activities that challenge the mind can help maintain
cognitive skills.

3. Support and Follow-up

Support groups: For patients and caregivers, offering a space to share experiences and gain
emotional support.

Education: Knowing more about the disease helps to better deal with the challenges.

4. Adapted Environment

Safety at home: Adapt the environment to prevent falls and facilitate the daily routine (e.g.
labels, adequate lighting).

Structured routines: Maintaining a routine helps reduce confusion and anxiety.

5. Palliative Care

Emotional support: Individual or group therapy can be beneficial for both the patient and
caregivers.

Advanced planning: Talk about future desires and needs regarding care and quality of life.

These strategies can help improve quality of life and deal with the challenges of the disease.
It is important to involve healthcare professionals for an individualized care plan.
ANEXOS
 Questionnaires about Alzheimer's

1- What is Alzheimer’s disease?

a) A type of cancer
b) A neurodegenerative disease
c) A cardiovascular disorder

2- Which of the following is a common early symptom of Alzheimer’s?

a) Difficulty breathing
b) Short-term memory loss
c) Sudden weight gain

3- What behavioral changes might occur in someone with Alzheimer’s?

a) Increased energy levels
b) Mood swings and personality changes
c) Improved social interactions

4- Which of these factors is considered a risk factor for developing Alzheimer’s?

a) Regular exercise
b) Family history of the disease
c) Moderate alcohol consumption

5- What type of tests are commonly used to diagnose Alzheimer’s?

a) Blood tests
b) Cognitive and neuropsychological assessments
c) X-rays

6- What is the main goal of treatment for Alzheimer’s disease?

a) To cure the disease
b) To manage symptoms and improve quality of life
c) To extend life expectancy significantly

7- What kind of support is important for caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients?

a) Avoid discussing the disease
b) Access to support groups and educational resources
c) Ignoring emotional needs

8- Which of the following is considered a beneficial strategy for maintaining brain health?
a) High-sugar diet
b) Regular physical activity and mental stimulation
c) Sedentary lifestyle and social isolation
REFERENCES

Brazilian Alzheimer's Association]

https://bvsms.saude.gov.br/doenca-de-alzheimer-3/

https://www.pacehospital.com/world-alzheimers-day

https://www.fivestarseniorliving.com/blog/neurologists-do-seniors-with-alzheimers-need-one

https://my.vanderbilthealth.com/doctors-for-alzheimers-care-do-you-need-a-geriatrician-or-a-
neurologist/
Matter: English
Prof: Grecia
Margarita Torres
Miembres of the Gream :
Ferreira Araújo, Tarciane
Ferreira Weber , Silvania
Saraiva Leite, João Thiago
Justino de Souza, Leila Hevelyn
De Melo Silva, Dalila
Trinidad Speranza, Dalmi Alice
Marroques Marques, Khadija
 Alzheimer's

+Definition
+Symptoms
+Epidemiology
+Age Range
+Treatment Procedures to Follow
+Prevention
+Diagnosic of the paciente
+Evaluate
What is Alzheimer's?
 Definition

+Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects

memory, reasoning and behavior. It is the most common form of
dementia, characterized by the progressive degeneration of nerve
cells in the brain.
From a neurological perspective, Alzheimer's is a disease
characterized by the progressive degeneration of neurons in the
brain. It is associated with the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques
and tau tangles, which interfere with communication between nerve
cells and lead to neuronal death. This neurodegeneration affects key
areas of the brain, such as the hippocampus and cerebral cortex,
responsible for cognitive functions such as memory, learning and
reasoning.
Alzheimer's is related to
brain inflammation and
alterations in neuronal
connectivity. The
combination of these factors
results in the manifestation
of clinical symptoms that
vary in severity and
progression over time.
Symptoms
+Memory loss
+Problems with reasoning
+Disorientation
+Depression, anxiety, irritability or apathy.
Memory loss: Difficulty remembering recent information, such as
conversations or events, and loss of past memories.

Disorientation: Confusion about time and place, which can lead

to getting lost in familiar places.

Language difficulties: Problems finding words or following a

conversation, as well as repeating phrases.

Alterations in reasoning: Difficulties in solving problems, making

decisions or performing tasks that require critical thinking.

Changes in visual perception: Problems with the interpretation of

images and the recognition of objects or faces.

Behavior and personality changes: There may be changes in

mood, anxiety, depression, or irritability.

Difficulties with daily activities: Problems carrying out everyday

tasks, such as dressing, cooking, or managing finances.
Epidemiology
+Alzheimer's disease affects millions of people around the world,
being more common in developed countries.
+Incidence rate: Prevalence increases with age, affecting
approximately 10% of people aged 65 and over and up to 50%
of individuals aged 85 and over.
+Between 45 to 50 years old
In Brazil in 2020
Treatment
+There is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, but there are
treatments that help alleviate symptoms:
+1- Therapies
+2- Medicines : Cholinesterase inhibitors
Prevention
+ 1- Healthy Lifestyle: balanced diet, weight control and
cardiovascular health.
+ 2- Mental stimulation: learn new skills, read, play strategy
games.
+ 3- Control of risk factors: monitor and treat hypertension,
diabetes and high cholesterol.
Control
+ 1- Education and support: Support groups and information
about the disease.
+ 2- Advance Planning: Discuss wishes for future care and health
plans.
+ 3-Care: Assess the need for assistance at home or in specialized
institutions as the disease progresses.
 Neurologist specializing in Alzheimer's

•Diagnosis: Conducting comprehensive assessments, including cognitive tests, neurological exams, and brain
imaging, to differentiate Alzheimer's from other types of dementia.
•Treatment Planning: Developing personalized treatment plans that may include medications to manage
symptoms, lifestyle recommendations, and supportive therapies.
•Research and Education: Staying updated on the latest research regarding Alzheimer's disease and contributing
to clinical trials or studies aimed at understanding the condition better.
•Support and Counseling: Providing guidance to patients and their families about the progression of the disease,
care strategies, and resources available for support.
•Coordination of Care: Collaborating with other healthcare professionals, such as psychologists, social workers,
and occupational therapists, to provide comprehensive care.
It is very
necessary
to have
family
support!
The life of a patient with Alzheimer's
•Family Dynamics: The emotional toll on
family members can be significant,
leading to caregiver stress, grief, and the
need for support systems.
•Quality of Life: Maintaining a sense of
dignity, engagement, and connection is
crucial throughout the journey, often
achieved through activities that resonate
•Independence: Patients may still maintain a level of with the patient’s past interests.
independence, although they might start experiencing •Therapies: Cognitive therapies, music
mild memory lapses, such as forgetting recent therapy, and reminiscence therapy can
conversations or misplacing items. help enhance the quality of life.
•Awareness: They are often aware of their condition,
which can lead to feelings of anxiety or frustration.
•Support: Early intervention and support from family
and friends can help patients manage daily tasks and
maintain social connections.
 Questionnaire
1-What is Alzheimer's?
a) A cardiovascular disease
b) A neurodegenerative disease
c) A type of diabetes

2-Which of the following is a common early symptom of Alzheimer's?

a) Difficulty breathing
b) Loss of recent memory
c) Weight gain
3-What behavioral changes are typical in patients with Alzheimer's?
a) Increased energy
b) Changes in mood and personality
c) Improvement in social skills
4-What factors are considered risk factors for developing Alzheimer's?
a) Regular exercise
b) Family history of the disease
c) Moderate alcohol consumption
 Answer
+1-R=b) A neurodegenerative disease.
+2-R= b) Loss of recent memory
+3- R=b) Changes in mood and personality
+4- R= b) Family history of the disease.
“Celebrating the love and memories that continue to shine, even as we navigate the challenges of Alzheimer’s together.
Each moment is a precious gift.”
Doubts?
References
+https://adni.loni.usc.edu/
+https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2376747/
+http://www.indianneurology.com/alzheimer_treatment_india.htm
l
+https://www.sjchs.org/living-smart-blog/blog-
details/blog/2018/12/13/understanding-dementia-and-
alzheimer-s-disease