Alzheimer's disease is a degenerative brain disorder affecting memory, judgment and other cognitive brain functions. Alzheimer's is commonly seen in people over the age of 60. It is expected that nearly 15 million Americans will suffer from Alzheimer's by 2050, reports Help Guide. The condition is irreversible and ultimately leads to death. Mainly thought of as a brain disorder, researchers are finding a stronger link between Alzheimer's disease and physical symptoms.
Weakened Sense of Smell
A Columbia University study suggests the ability to identify aromas is diminished in Alzheimer's patients. Participants were asked to identify 40 different aromas to test olfactory sense. A higher percentage of participants who performed poorly developed Alzheimer's disease or had significantly lower cognitive function. Scents most commonly misidentified include lemon and lavender.
Loss of Balance and Trouble Walking
A 2006 study suggests an early indicator of Alzheimer's may be difficulty with walking and balance, according to New York-Presbyterian. A group of 2,288 men and women were studied for six years in areas such as walking and balance; balance was measured by participants moving from sitting to standing position. Participants with lower physical scores also had lower cognitive scores at the end of the study.
Incontinence
Urinary and bowel incontinence is often seen during the middle and late stages of the disease. The initial onset of incontinence may not be due to physical changes, yet may be due to confusion locating a restroom or inability to appropriately remove clothing. A toileting schedule is often implemented to avoid incontinence episodes. Total loss of bowel and bladder control occurs at the end stage of the disease.
Difficulty Swallowing
In the end stages of Alzheimer's, swallowing becomes impaired. A leading complication in Alzheimer's patients is aspiration pneumonia. This occurs when liquid or food is inhaled into the lungs, causing an infection, according to Mayo Clinic. Help Guide suggests giving patients instructions on when to chew and swallow. Patients must be fed slowly to avoid choking, and should be sitting upright at a 30-degree angle during and after meal times. Serving soft or pureed food is recommended as the patient will not be able to chew food properly.
Immobility
Immobility becomes a physical symptom during the late stages of the disease, states The Alzheimer's Association. Patients need assistance, such as a walker or cane, and progress to using a wheelchair. The disease continues to physically affect the body as one is unable to walk, and muscles contract and grow rigid. The Alzheimer's victim becomes bed-bound and totally dependent on care staff for all needs. The body is unable to support or reposition itself. A notable change is the person's inability to smile.
References
- Help Guide: Alzheimer's Disease: Signs, Symptoms, and Stages of Alzheimer's Disease
- Alzheimer's Association: Stages of Alzheimer's
- National Insitutes of Health: Alzheimer's Disease Fact Sheet
- New York-Presbyterian: Alzheimer's May Be Preceded by Physical Symptoms
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology Undergraduate Research Journal: Physiological Markers for Alzheimer's Disease
