A Pre-senile Dementia
Most people suffer some degree of brain atrophy (wasting or shrinkage) as they get older, usually accompanied by a slowing of mental processes.
Frequently the atrophy is so severe that the person suffers from senile dementia. Characteristically, this change takes place in some persons over the age of 70 sometimes much later.
In a small number of individuals, however, atrophy with resulting dementia occurs far earlier in life. Alzheimer’s disease is caused by such atrophy; the reason why it occurs is not known. It tends to develop in the 30s or 40s, and the symptoms are precisely those of senile dementia; Forgetfulness succeeded by irritability and then irrationality.
Unfortunately, there is no cure at present; Vasodilator drugs are prescribed in an attempt to improve the blood supply to the tissues of the brain.
Psychotherapy and tranquillizers or antidepressants may be used, but “Loving Care” Is probably the best therapy in this tragic affliction
****************************
Having been a nurse, caring for the wellbeing of Patients with this affliction, I would like to add my
Small statement.
The age range is not choosy, I have nursed patients as young as 25 years old with Alzheimer’s and as old as 97 Years old, in either case the fear of loosing one’s faculties is the hardest to bear, especially when one has had a normal active life, to be suddenly thrown into a situation whereby, remembering one’s name is a challenge, remembering one’s own child, a loving partners face, or just where you live, can be a terrifying experience, frustration can often lead to aggression, quite often by this time the patients have left their homes and are in either geriatric wards, or specialized homes.
The role of the supporting members of the family is very important, even if at times, they seem superficial. The constant jogging of memory can bring a little recognition, sometimes the patient, will remember certain members of the family, if not the important ones, this can often lead to friction between family members. One has to remember the patients have feelings and they need to be comforted and cherished, not involved in family brawls.
Quite often in a friendly environment, the patient will form friendships with either other residents or members of staff, this is actively encouraged, as the resident will probably spend their remaining days in this establishment, which they regard as home.
Some of my best friends have Alzheimer’s disease, and who knows maybe one day, you, I, or a loved, may contract the disease, By giving them all the love you have and continuing to support them throughout their illness, will not only grant you “Grace” but will also seep through the small cracks of memories they may have, letting them know, that you still care and will always care.
***************************
Thank you all for reading this small effort to communicate this horrific disease, in a more understanding way than you would read from a medical journal, or hear from a medical practitioner.
(Sometimes they forget to use English
) We don’t all Carry dictionaries.
Medical statement, supplied by Medical Encyclopedia.
Adding your comment:
If it only reaches one, it has been worth it 
nevertheless, you did write it well and I definately would agree that this, as with anything, is something which can be helped by a little love. 
Thank YOU for your compassion in your work...& your solace in your words...it very often makes a large difference to someone...even if you aren't always aware of it!!! Thanks, my Friend... 
This was a very informitive piece, and it's really nice to hear of all the love there is. 
