Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias

Dementia is a syndrome consisting of a number of symptoms that include loss of memory, judgment and reasoning, and changes in mood and behaviour. These symptoms may affect a person’s ability to function at work, in social relationships or in day-to-day activities.

Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, accounts for 64% of all dementias in Canada. (Material sourced from Alzheimer Society of Toronto www.alzheimertoronto.org)

Articles

What is Dementia

Dementia is a syndrome consisting of a number of symptoms that include loss of memory, judgment and reasoning, and changes in mood and behaviour. These symptoms may affect a person’s ability to function at work, in social relationships or in day-to-day activities. www.alzheimertoronto.org/ad_whatIsDementia.htm

What is Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive, degenerative disease of the brain, which causes thinking and memory to become seriously impaired. It is the most common form of dementia. www.alzheimertoronto.org/ad_whatIsAD.htm

Alzheimer’s Disease and Down Syndrome

Almost all people with Down syndrome who live into their 40s and beyond will develop the abnormal brain changes (the plaques and tangles) that characterize the brain in Alzheimer’s disease. www.alzheimertoronto.org/ad_riskFactors_DownSyndrome.htm

The Progression of Alzheimer’s Disease – Stages

This is a five-part series on the stages of Alzheimer’s disease and is written for the person with the disease, their family and caregivers. www.alzheimertoronto.org/ad_ProgressionAD.htm

Aspects of Daily Living

There are many things to consider from personal care and safety to effective communication techniques. We have a few tips to help you cope with some of the many challenges you face day to day. www.alzheimertoronto.org/ad_dailyLiving.htm

Ethical Issues

Ethics is that aspect of human thought and behaviour that is guided by standards and principles of right conduct. It involves the commitment to do the right thing. Ethical decision-making is guided by values, which are beliefs that influence attitudes, actions, choices and decisions. Each person may view an ethical issue differently. Each person’s view of an ethical issue is shaped by many factors, including a person’s life history and culture. www.alzheimertoronto.org/ti_introductionEthics.htm

Treatment – Drugs available in Canada

There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease and no treatment that will stop its progression. However, several medications are available that can help with some symptoms. These medications can slow down the decline of memory, language and thinking abilities. www.alzheimertoronto.org/ad_drugTreatments.htm

Interactive Component

U-First! is a proven and effective approach to working with people with dementia. Through dialogue and a case-based approach, learners will have more confidence in working with people with responsive behaviours. Training is especially designed for people working in community care, acute care, and long-term care. For more information visit www.u-first.ca
Me & U-First! Online Training Program www.u-first.ca/me-u-first-english