Causes Of Alzheimers

Alzheimers is the most common form of dementia.

Causes of Alzheimers

To date, the cause of Alzheimers is not fully understood, and thus treatments are in early stages of development. Genetic factors are thought to play a role in its development, although it is now being recognisd that both diet and lack of mental stimulation also play a role.

Recent observations have shown alzheimers patients to have an accumulation of of a particular protein [abnormally folded amyloid beta protein] in the brain. Amyloid beta [Aß], is a byproduct of a transmembrane protein, amyloid precursor protein [APP], whose function is unclear but thought to be involved in neuronal development.

APP is located on chromosome 21, present in Down syndrome. Those who have this extra gene almost always exhibit AD-like disorders by 40 years of age.

Rare cases of Alzheimer's are caused by dominant genes that run in families.

The Four Phases Of Resolution

Video dealing with the four phases of resolution by Naomi Feil, founder of the Validation Method of dealing with disoriented elderly. Naomi suggests that Alzheimers is not just a physical ailment, but a need of the aged person for validation, and to die in peace.

Whether or not you support this theory, the video clearly outlines the type of behaviour one may mistake for crankiness, is actually symptomatic of Alzheimers.

NEXT: Symptoms of Alzheimers

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