Alzheimer's Disease Flashcards
0
Q
causes of Alzheimer’s
A
aging
genetics
1
Q
what is Alzheimer’s
A
a fatal, progressive and degenerative disease that destroys brain cells
2
Q
stages of Alzheimer’s
A
early
middle
late
end of life
3
Q
common warning signs
A
memory loss confusion mood changes cannot perform ADLs struggles to find words poor judgment
4
Q
early stage
A
“mild Alzheimer’s disease”
refers to people of any age who have mild impairment
5
Q
symptoms in the early stage
A
forgetfulness
communication difficulties
changes in mood and behaviour
6
Q
middle stage
A
“moderate Alzheimer’s disease”
this stage seems the longest
7
Q
symptoms in the middle stage
A
memory problems become more pronounced disorientation inability to concentrate mood shifts restlessness begin to require assistance for ADLs
8
Q
late stage
A
“severe” or “advanced”
eventually become unable to communicate
9
Q
symptoms of the late stage
A
severe loss of memory, ability to process information and understanding of time and place lose their ability to speak need help with eating lose the ability to walk/sit cannot swallow properly
10
Q
end of life stage symptoms
A
cool to touch no longer eats or drinks secretions in the back of the throat congested breathing sleepiness abnormal vital signs apneic breathing
11
Q
complications
A
pneumonia aspiration urinary incontinence injuries from falls pressure ulcer malnutrition dehydration aggression
