Kinesiology

Late-Stage Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease

Posted on July 25, 2023

Alzheimer's Progression Featured Image

Alzheimer’s Disease Progression Three Part Article Series
Part III: Late-Stage Symptoms

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) causes a gradual decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning skills. Symptoms depend on the stage of the disease. In this three-part article series, we discuss early-stage symptoms, middle-stage symptoms, and late-stage symptoms exhibited by individuals diagnosed with AD.

In Part III of this article series, we are discussing symptoms commonly associated with late-stage AD, the final stage of the disease when symptoms are the most severe. During late-stage AD, individuals lose the ability to fully engage with their surroundings because their physical and mental abilities have significantly deteriorated. At this stage 24-hour care is needed because individuals can’t complete activities independently. Some can complete basic tasks like eating and walking; however, sadly even these abilities may decrease over time.

A goal for caregivers should be to enhance the quality of life for the person with AD. Daily activities will need to be adjusted to their likes, dislikes, and abilities. Common late-stage symptoms of AD are listed below.

Decline in Physical Ability. During late-stage AD, patients may struggle to complete physical tasks like walking or standing. Bladder and bowel movements are often uncontrollable; a toileting schedule or using diapers may be necessary. The ability to chew or swallow can decline, and meals may need to be altered to accommodate these changes.

Increased Pneumonia Diagnosis. As the ability to swallow food decreases, food or liquid may sometimes enter the lungs instead of traveling down to the stomach. This can lead to aspiration pneumonia where food and/or liquid that can’t be swallowed is pulled into the lungs.

Increased Infections. As mobility decreases, it is common for infections to arise more easily, particularly in the lungs, which increases the risk of pneumonia. If body and oral hygiene aren’t maintained infections may arise due to neglect of these areas.

Decreased Communication. It is common for someone in late-stage AD to have little to no ability to communicate effectively. Many will completely lose the ability to participate in verbal and/or non-verbal communication. Some individuals can produce a few words or gestures in response. In most cases, it is difficult to effectively communicate with most individuals in late-stage AD because they become more disconnected from their environment over time and therefore, less responsive. Attempt to communicate with visual cues. Try communicating by playing their favorite music.

Increased Sleep. During late-stage AD, it is common for sleep time to increase during the daytime and at night. This may be due to medications or simply exhaustion. Completing daily tasks can become increasingly tiring over time resulting in longer periods of sleep to recover.

AD affects each person in different ways, so everyone will experience symptoms differently and progress through the stages differently. The examples provided in this article should only be used as a guide for a better understanding of late-stage symptoms of AD.

To explore early-stage symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, please read Part I of this article series, Alzheimer’s Disease Progression Three Part Series, Part I: Early-Stage Symptoms.

To explore middle-stage symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, please read Part II of this article series, Alzheimer’s Disease Progression Three Part Series, Part II: Middle-Stage Symptoms.

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Kinesiology

Middle-Stage Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease

Posted on July 25, 2023

Alzheimer's Progression Featured Image

Alzheimer’s Disease Progression Three Part Article Series
Part II: Middle-Stage Symptoms

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) causes a gradual decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning skills. Symptoms depend on the stage of the disease. In this three-part article series, we discuss early-stage symptoms, middle-stage symptoms, and late-stage symptoms exhibited by individuals diagnosed with AD.

In Part II of this article series, we are discussing symptoms commonly associated with middle-stage AD, which is typically the longest stage and may last for many years. During middle-stage AD, a person’s symptoms become more noticeable. However, unlike the early stages of AD, individuals are usually unaware of their cognitive decline even though it has worsened.

Cognitive decline often ranges from moderate to severe and although symptoms vary, many people in this stage may no longer be able to function completely independently. Usually, individuals can complete daily care tasks with help from a caregiver, such as getting dressed and eating. As the disease progresses, the caregiver will need to be attentive to changing needs. For example, at first, laying out clothing may be enough to imply that it is time to get dressed. Eventually, extra guidance may be needed by laying out one piece at a time in the order they need to be put on.

An understanding and patient caregiver is necessary due to the challenges that accompany the symptoms experienced by individuals diagnosed with AD. Common middle-stage AD symptoms are listed below.

Loss of Long-Term Memories. During middle-stage AD, memory loss progresses into forgetting long-term memories. For example, it is common to forget personal life events like weddings and funerals, family members, and friends. Memories of how to perform a task such as riding a bike or driving can also be affected.

Decreased Personal Hygiene. Another consequence of continued cognitive decline is that individuals may forget how to complete seemingly easy tasks such as showering or brushing their hair. Or they may remember how to do these tasks but forget to do them. This is one of the reasons a person in the middle stages of AD may require caretaking.

Developing Sundowning Behaviors. Exhibiting certain behaviors at nighttime is very common in the middle stage of AD. Common behaviors include restlessness, wandering, and confusion. This can result in potentially dangerous situations due to their unpredictable nature. Read more about sundowning syndrome here.

Personality Changes. During middle-stage AD, someone diagnosed with AD may experience delusions, believe things that are false, or become suspicious of others, even their own caregivers. It is also possible to develop depression or compulsive behaviors such as pacing or tissue shredding. These personality changes are often accompanied by changes in social interactions, some examples are given below.

Changes in Social Interactions. A common symptom of middle-stage AD is a change in how an individual interacts with others. For example, individuals with AD may isolate themselves during family gatherings they once loved and/or appear moody or unfriendly by refusing to engage in conversations. On the other hand, they may act out of character and say or do things that are viewed as inappropriate or rude by others.

Increased Confusion. Becoming confused about the date or not recognizing a recently visited place may happen more often for someone in the middle stage of AD. This may happen even if it is a family place they have been to many times, like a relative’s home. Confusion and disorientation often increase as short-term and long-term memory loss worsen.

Changes in Appetite. In middle-stage AD, people often experience weight loss due to a decreased appetite, refusing to eat, or forgetting to eat. Also, physical limitations such as toothaches can limit the ability to eat, and personality changes may affect the desire to eat.

AD affects each person in different ways, so everyone will experience symptoms differently and progress through the stages differently. The examples provided in this article should only be used as a guide for a better understanding of middle-stage symptoms of AD.

To explore early-stage symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, please read Part I of this article series, Alzheimer’s Disease Progression Three Part Series, Part I: Early-Stage Symptoms.

To explore late-stage symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, please read Part III of this article series, Alzheimer’s Disease Progression Three Part Series, Part III: Late-Stage Symptoms.

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Kinesiology

Early-Stage Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease

Posted on July 25, 2023

Alzheimer's Progression Featured Image

Alzheimer’s Disease Progression Three Part Article Series
Part I: Early-Stage Symptoms

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) causes a gradual decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning skills. Symptoms depend on the stage of the disease. In this three-part article series, we discuss early-stage symptoms, middle-stage symptoms, and late-stage symptoms exhibited by individuals diagnosed with AD.

In Part I of this article series, we are discussing the early signs of AD. In the early stage of AD, a person may function independently. They may still drive, work, and take part in social activities. However, maybe they’ve noticed some memory lapses, such as forgetting the location of everyday objects. Family members may have also noticed some early signs. A doctor would be able to use diagnostic tests and tools to identify symptoms more clearly.

Recognizing the early indicators of AD is crucial for early intervention and improved quality of life. Common early-stage symptoms of AD are listed below. Many of these examples are characteristic of normal aging; however, someone diagnosed with AD would experience them in a way that significantly disrupts their daily life.

Memory Loss That Affects Daily Life. One of the most common early signs of AD is memory loss. Examples include forgetting important dates or events, frequently misplacing items, or struggling to recall recently learned information. Memory lapses may become more frequent or affect the ability to function normally.

Difficulty with Problem-Solving or Planning. Alzheimer’s can impact the ability to solve problems, make plans, and complete tasks. A possible early sign of AD includes struggling to complete common tasks such as following a recipe, managing finances, or playing a game that requires logical thinking or that has lots of rules. Difficulty learning to follow a new routine may also be an early sign of AD.

Forgetting Time and Places. Another consequence of cognitive decline can be confusion regarding time and place. People with AD may lose track of dates or have trouble knowing what month it is. Getting disoriented in familiar environments or struggling to follow directions can also be warning signs.

Changes in Mood and Personality. AD can bring about changes in mood and personality such as increased irritability, anxiety, or depression. Individuals may become withdrawn from social activities they once enjoyed or show uncharacteristic shifts in behavior. They may become less flexible and more hesitant to try new things.

Challenges with Language and Communication. Struggling to find the right words or having difficulty explaining something can be early indicators of AD. Repeating the same question is also common due to memory loss.

Misplacing Objects and Difficulty Retracing Steps. Putting items in unusual places and being unable to find them is a potential early sign of AD. As the disease progresses, individuals may accuse others of stealing their belongings, unaware of their own misplaced actions.

Poor Judgment and Decision-Making. AD can impair judgment and decision-making abilities. Giving money to a stranger, walking across a busy street without waiting until it is safe to do so, falling victim to scams easily, or neglecting personal hygiene are potential examples of someone showing early signs of AD.

AD affects each person in different ways, so everyone will experience symptoms differently and progress through the stages differently. The examples provided in this article should only be used as a guide for better understanding early-stage symptoms of AD.

To explore middle-stage symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, please read Part II of this article series, Alzheimer’s Disease Progression Three Part Series, Part II: Middle-Stage Symptoms.

To explore late-stage symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, please read Part III of this article series, Alzheimer’s Disease Progression Three Part Series, Part III: Late-Stage Symptoms.

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Kinesiology

Highlights From the 2023 AAIC

Posted on August 29, 2023

Alzheimer's Conference 2023 Featured Image

Over 7,000 researchers and Alzheimer’s advocates from around the world gathered in Amsterdam this summer for the 2023 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC). The AAIC is the world’s largest dementia research conference, providing a great opportunity for students and professionals to learn about the latest research on Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Each year, the conference hosts speakers, research and scientific sessions, continuing education courses, small group discussions, and thousands of presentations. A lot of knowledge and exciting discoveries are shared at this event!

Highlights from the 2023 AAIC:

1. The National Institute on Aging and the Alzheimer’s Association presented recommended updates for the diagnostic guidelines and characterization of Alzheimer’s disease, which were last updated in 2018.

2. The University of Pittsburgh developed a new coil system for MRI machines. This is the part of the machine that the head goes into for a brain scan. This version provides a face opening in the front so participants can see out. It can scan hard-to-reach regions such as the brain stem, temporal lobes, and cerebellum. The new part is specific to 7 Tesla MRI systems, which were just recently given FDA approval for clinical use.

3. Researchers from New York University presented a study exploring the relationship between periodontitis (gum disease), accelerated biological aging process, and worsening cognitive functioning. There were 2,186 participants ages 60 and older. Results suggested participants with periodontitis and greater age algorithms (using KDM-biological age and PhenoAge algorithms) had lower levels of cognitive function than those without periodontitis, meaning gum disease speeds up the biological aging process which leads to a decline in cognitive functioning.

4. Researchers in France have been testing video game-style cognitive screening batteries that can be administered remotely to diagnose dementia. Thus far, results indicate that the program can reveal deficits related to working memory, everyday multi-tasking, and attention. The researchers hope this technology will be useful in rural areas where care may be hard to reach, address the issue of long waitlists for testing, and/or provide the opportunity for elderly patients to complete testing in their own homes.

These highlights have only scratched the surface. You can visit aaic.alz.org/highlights2023.asp to learn more about the exciting discoveries shared at the 2023 AAIC.

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Kinesiology

Tips for Families Affected by Alzheimer’s: Enjoying the Holidays

Posted on November 27, 2023

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Throughout the holiday season, our hearts are filled with anticipation and joy, looking forward to spending time with family and creating cherished memories. Nevertheless, this time of year can bring unique challenges and uncertainties for families with loved ones living with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.

Over the past few years, the PAAD2 team has written a handful of articles that may contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone involved, such as tips for communicating with someone with dementia and including them in holiday celebrations. There is also an article suggesting ways to support a friend or family member who is a caregiver.

Click on each picture or article title below to read the article:

Holiday Tips for Families Affected by Alzheimer’s

Five Ways to Support a Family Caregiver

Tips for Including Your Loved One in Holiday Celebrations

Meaningful Activities for Seniors with Alzheimer’s Disease

Tips for Communicating with Someone with Dementia

Please remember that it’s essential to approach holiday gatherings with empathy and patience, keeping in mind that your loved one’s abilities may have changed since last year. The holidays can be a wonderful opportunity for heartfelt connections and creating new, meaningful memories. We hope you found the tips and information in these articles helpful.

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Kinesiology

Virtual Dementia Tour: a Simulation of Daily Life With Dementia

Posted on September 12, 2023

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A Virtual Dementia Tour provides the opportunity for caregivers and healthcare providers to experience a simulated reality of what life is like for someone with dementia. It is a unique learning experience that builds empathy and awareness in individuals caring for people living with dementia. The PAAD2 study recently connected with Abbotswood at Irving Park, a senior living community in Greensboro, NC, to learn more about this program.

Abbotswood at Irving Park is partnered with Second Wind Dreams to perform Virtual Dementia Tours. They invited Sam DuBois, a PAAD2 Team Member and PhD candidate in the Kinesiology Department at UNCG, to attend a Virtual Dementia Tour where she was taken on a journey into the world of someone living with dementia. Sam was asked to share a little bit about her experience participating in the Virtual Dementia Tour.

When I arrived, I was provided with goggles, headphones, shoe inserts, and gloves to wear throughout the simulation. The simulation temporarily alters your physical and sensory abilities to replicate the physical, mental, and emotional challenges that those living with dementia may experience on a daily basis. The goggles blurred my vision to replicate macular degeneration because individuals with age-related macular degeneration are at an increased risk of developing dementia. The headphones played loud auditory stimuli that made it difficult to hear the people around me and impaired my ability to think clearly and focus. The shoe inserts replicated neuropathy by causing tingling sensations that made it uncomfortable to walk. The gloves were oversized with some of the fingers sewn together which made it challenging for me to execute fine motor skills.

Sam DuBois

Once I had all the equipment on, I was guided to a room and given further instructions to complete a list of everyday tasks. The experience of trying to complete the tasks that I did not fully understand while my physical and sensory abilities were severely altered was extremely disorienting and frustrating. My vision was impaired which made it difficult to see my surroundings clearly and I struggled to pick up objects because of the gloves I was wearing. At one point I stood still for several minutes and kept looking around the room in the hope that I would see something that would make things easier.

This simulation was designed to provide caregivers, loved ones, educators, and researchers with a better awareness and understanding of what life is like for people living with dementia. The simulation lasted about 15 minutes and I found myself feeling frustrated during that short amount of time. Dementia patients don’t get to remove goggles, headphones, shoe inserts, or gloves after 15 minutes. This experience helped strengthen my awareness of the difficulties experienced daily by someone with dementia.

The Virtual Dementia Tour by Second Wind Dreams is an in-person experience led by certified trainers. The purpose of the program is to learn how to communicate and interact more effectively with people living with dementia. If you are interested in participating in a Virtual Dementia Tour at Abbotswood at Irving Park, please contact Victoria Evans at victoria.evans@kiscosl.com or Jody Clayton at jody.clayton@kiscosl.com; the program is currently available at no charge and open to the public. If you are not in the Greensboro area, Second Wind Dreams offers the Virtual Dementia Tour Family Edition for purchase.

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Kinesiology

Procter & Gamble

Posted on October 24, 2023

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Procter & Gamble (P&G) is a multi-national personal goods and consumer goods company known for its wide range of products, including well-known brands like Pampers, Tide, Crest, and Gillette. P&G is committed to corporate social responsibility and works with organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association to raise awareness and funding for research and support. They are the featured corporate partner of the Alzheimer’s Association, with contributions totaling more than $200,000.

P&G’s involvement in supporting the fight against Alzheimer’s through various initiatives include:

  • Fundraising: P&G has organized and supported various fundraising campaigns to benefit Alzheimer’s research. These campaigns often involve their popular brands, and a portion of the proceeds from the sales of specific products is donated to the Alzheimer’s Association or other related organizations. P&G also sponsors the annual Cincinnati Walk to End Alzheimer’s and encourages employees across the country to form teams for walks in their areas.
  • Awareness Initiatives: P&G has been involved in raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease by educating the public about the challenges faced by those affected by the disease and their caregivers. They have used their marketing reach to spread the word about the disease and its impact. P&G also teamed up with the Alzheimer’s Association to create and distribute the Home Safety Checklist to help caregivers and families create a safe and supportive environment for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

The Home Safety Checklist is designed to reduce the risk of accidents and ensure that the person with dementia can live independently for as long as possible. It includes information on home safety, emergency preparedness, wandering prevention, medication safety, and more. To learn more about the Home Safety Checklist and to download a copy, visit https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/safety/home-safety.

  • Research Support: P&G has contributed to funding research efforts aimed at finding a cure for Alzheimer’s disease. The company’s support often goes toward initiatives that investigate potential treatments, early detection methods, and improved care for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. For example, P&G provided funding for a study at the University of California that demonstrated aromatherapy with natural oil fragrance in a diffuser increased cognitive performance in older adults without memory impairments. The study’s results are being published in Frontiers in Neuroscience, a peer-reviewed journal.

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Kinesiology

Alzheimer’s Association Reaches $100 Million in Research Activities

Posted on November 29, 2023

The Alzheimer’s Association (AA) recently announced they have invested $100 million into Alzheimer’s disease and dementia research initiatives this year. The organization came close last year, with a total of $90 million spent on research in 2022. The year before, 2021, $70 million was spent. Reaching a $100 million investment in research is a historical milestone for the AA. This is the largest single-year investment in research-related spending since the organization was founded in 1980.

AA research-related initiatives include TrialMatch (a free clinical studies matching service), global leadership initiatives such as the annual Alzheimer’s Association International Conference, peer-reviewed journals, and grant funding for researchers to study dementia-related science. A total of 271 national and international grants have been funded for research projects this year. Six of these were awarded to advance research efforts in North Carolina and projects will be completed at universities including Duke University, The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and Wake Forest University.

Contribute to the AA’s worldwide movement to fight Alzheimer’s and other dementia by checking out TrialMatch and participating in a research study or by donating to the cause.

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Kinesiology

Exploring Stress Management: Insights from Research

Posted on June 25, 2024

Mountain

PAC Lab Article Written By Brittany Armstrong

Managing stress effectively is crucial for maintaining our well-being. Various strategies have been developed for stress management, including mindfulness practices, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and technology-based interventions. These approaches assist individuals in handling stress more effectively, ultimately contributing to a happier and healthier life.

Scientists actively research these strategies to deepen their understanding and explore ways to enhance stress management techniques. This exploration includes investigating the effectiveness and mechanisms behind mindfulness practices, CBT, and technology-based interventions.

Mindfulness practices are techniques to relax the mind and body such as meditation and deep breathing exercises. Dr. Chang and colleagues (2018) reviewed 20 studies that supported the beneficial effects of Tai Chi in reducing anxiety and depressive symptoms. Also, Dr. Black and colleagues (2020) observed improved sleep quality among older adults with sleep disturbances who practiced mindfulness meditation. Mindfulness techniques promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and enhance emotional resilience by fostering present-moment awareness.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy known for its effectiveness in managing stress by altering negative thought patterns and behaviors. According to a review of 29 studies by Dr. Orgeta and colleagues (2022), CBT reduces depressive symptoms and improves overall quality of life. Also, Wetherell and colleagues (2017) explain that CBT helps individuals identify and challenge negative thoughts, develop adaptive coping strategies, and build resilience to stressors. CBT helps to manage stress by modifying the way a person thinks and behaves.

Technology-based interventions include digital platforms like guided meditation apps, stress-tracking tools, smart speakers, and virtual support communities. These resources provide accessible avenues for stress relief and mental health support. Dr. Chung and colleagues (2021) explored the use of smart speakers to deliver daily reminders and support for tasks like medication reminders, demonstrating the potential of technology in enhancing everyday well-being.

By advancing our understanding of these strategies through research, scientists aim to optimize their effectiveness and broaden their accessibility, ultimately promoting better stress management and mental health outcomes for individuals worldwide.

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Navigating Travel with Dementia: Tips for a Smooth Journey

Posted on June 07, 2024

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PAC Lab Article Written By Brittany Armstrong

Traveling can be an exciting adventure, but when a loved one has dementia, it requires careful planning and consideration. Whether you’re going on a short trip or a longer vacation, here are some tips to help make your journey as smooth as possible:

  • Plan Ahead: Before you travel, take time to plan. Choose destinations and activities that are familiar and less likely to cause confusion. If you’re flying, notify the airline in advance about your situation; they may offer assistance.
  • Pack Wisely: Bring essential items such as medications, identification, and a list of emergency contacts. Familiar items like photos or favorite snacks can provide comfort and familiarity during the trip.
  • Keep It Simple: Avoid complex itineraries and opt for direct routes when possible. Limit the number of stops and transitions to reduce stress. Maintain a routine as much as possible to provide stability.
  • Communication is Key: Keep communication clear and simple. Use short sentences and repeat important information. Patience and reassurance can go a long way in reducing anxiety.
  • Safety First: Ensure your loved one wears identification and consider using GPS devices or wearable tracking technology in case they wander. Always supervise them in unfamiliar environments.
  • Take Breaks: Traveling can be tiring for everyone. Plan regular breaks to rest and recharge. Allow time for relaxation and enjoyment without rushing from one activity to another.
  • Be Flexible: Unexpected challenges may arise, so be prepared to adjust your plans as needed. Stay calm and adaptable. It’s all part of the adventure.
  • Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it. Many travel destinations have resources for people with dementia, such as accessible facilities or support groups.
  • Enjoy the Journey: Above all, focus on making memories together. While traveling with dementia requires extra care, it can also be an opportunity to cherish moments of connection and exploration.

Traveling with someone who has dementia may present challenges, but with careful planning and patience, you can create meaningful experiences together. Remember, the journey is about more than the destination. It’s about the time spent together along the way. Safe travels!

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