Serving the City of Orillia, Oro-Medonte, Ramara and Severn Townships, and Rama Mnjikaning First Nation
Orillia, Brechin, Coldwater, Washago
ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE
Alzheimer's disease is a degenerative brain disorder that destroys vital brain cells. There is no know cause or cure for Alzheimer's disease. However, there are now medication to treat some of the symptoms. Alzheimer's disease can strike adults at any age, but occurs most commonly in people over 65.
There are two forms of Alzheimer's disease: Familial Autosomal Dominant (FAD), which can strike adults at any age and the more common Sporadic, which usually occurs after the age of 65. Over 300,000 Canadians or 1 in 13 over the age of 65 currently suffer from Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Women are more affected by the disease than men. Women account for over 2/3 of all those over 65 with the disease; most caregivers are women. Over 52% of Canadians know someone with Alzheimer's disease and almost 1/4 have someone affected in their family.
Early in the next century, baby boomers will move into the age of highest risk of Alzheimer's disease. By the year 2031, it is estimated over 3/4 million Canadians will have Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. This figure does not include the countless family members who must cope with the effects of the disease. Canadians spend over 3.9 billion dollars a year on person with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
TEN WARNING SIGNS
1. Memory loss that affects day-to day function.
2. Difficulty performing familiar tasks.
3. Problems with language.
4. Disorientation of time and place.
5. Poor or decreased judgement.
6. Problems with abstract thinking.
7. Misplacing things.
8. Changes in mood and behaviour.
9. Change in personality.
10. Loss of initiative.
For more information,
please contact us by phone or by email or fax.
Thank you.
Charitable Reg.# 11878 5112 RR0001
This webpage updated July 15, 2008.
