For Someone You Care About.
The "Disease of the Century"
Alzheimer's Disease was first described by Alois Alzheimer in 1907. The disease -- a progressive deterioration of the brain -- knows no social or economic boundaries. And it affects men and women almost equally.
While most victims are over 65, it can strike in the 40's and 50's. There are currently an estimated 2.5 million Americans stricken with the disease. And annually more than 100,000 of them will die from complications of the disease.
Alzheimer's disease results in impaired memory, thinking and behavior. Yet many of the disease victims are cared for at home, while others require nursing home care. Because of the effects of Alzheimer's disease, it can be devastating for both victims and their families. That's why it's called the "disease of the century."
The Symptoms
The symptoms appear gradually. They include memory loss, decline in ability to perform tasks, impaired judgement, disorientation, personality change, difficulty in learning and loss of language skills. The rate of change in these characteristics varies from person to person. But eventually, the disease renders its victims totally incapable of caring for themselves.
You Can Find Help
At Sartori Hospital, you can join an Alzheimer's support group. It's open to patients with the disease, their families, friends or other interested individuals. You can get practical information from our healthcare professionals -- social workers and nurses, about the disease and how to cope and provide care. It's a change to share problems and solutions, concerns, ideas and experiences.
The Third Thursday
The support group meets the third Thursday of the month (September through May) at 7 p.m. at Sartori Memorial Hospital. For Alzheimer patients, respite care can be arranged during the meeting.
For more information call Sartori Patient and Family Services
Updated 28 Dec 94 Problem report