"Memory Walk"
By Roxana Dadyala of Salisbury Rehabilatation and Nursing Center

In this age of modern medical and scientific advancements, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is still a subject with a negative stigma. It is not a normal part of aging, and is a devastating disorder of the brain’s nerve cells that impairs memory, thinking, and behavior and leads, ultimately, to death. The impact of Alzheimer’s on individuals, families and our health care system makes the disease one of our nation’s greatest medical, social and fiscal challenges.

Although research into a number of possible causes is being done, the actual cause of AD remains unknown. However, it is known that AD involves the gradual destruction of brain cells, so that parts of the brain may literally shrink. The parts worst affected are those involved in memory and thinking ability, along with personality changes, which become more noticeable by loved ones as the disease worsens. Other parts of the brain may be spared till later—parts having to do with sight and touch as well as the motor cortex, which directs muscular activity.

But there is hope on the horizon. Alzheimer’s disease can now be diagnosed with 90 percent accuracy. The Alzheimer’s Association strongly encourages early diagnosis to enhance the benefits of treatment and allow the person to participate in planning and decision-making. Early diagnosis is also important because it helps doctors to rule out other causes for the symptoms. Some conditions, such as depression, drug interaction, thyroid problems and certain vitamin deficiencies, may cause symptoms similar to AD and are usually reversible. If the doctor diagnoses AD, effective care and treatment options exist that can improve the quality of life for individuals with the disease and their care partners.

The Alzheimer’s Association’s goal of delaying the disabling symptoms and eventually preventing Alzheimer’s disease now appears to be a feasible scientific objective. Alzheimer’s disease research is poised for a revolution, and it is no longer a question of whether this revolution will occur, but when — we believe major breakthroughs will happen in the next 10 years.

The Alzheimer’s Association’s mission is to provide the leadership to conquer Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research, while enhancing care and support services for individuals and their families.

We urge you to make your contribution by supporting research and funding into this devastating disease. You can show your support by signing up for the Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk by calling the local Alzheimer’s Association, Chapter of Greater Maryland. The Memory Walk event will be held on Saturday, October 2, 2004. For details call Dee Myers at either: 410-543-1163, or 800-443-CARE, or click on the “Memory Walk” star burst. At www.alzgmd.org.

We invite you to attend our Alzheimer’s Support Group meetings to learn more about the illness, or coping strategies. Meetings are held the third Wednesday of each month, from 6:00 – 7:00 pm, at Salisbury Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, 200 Civic Avenue, in the Station 8 Dining Room. Contact Brenda Montgomery at 410-749-1466.

MAGGIE’S MEMO:
SALISBURY REHABILITATION & NURSING CENTER, like most long term care centers, strives to be like a community where the residents can feel comfortable, find familiar faces and build relationships just like they would at home. Not only do centers provide basic nursing services, but they also provide rehabilitation therapy, recreation activities, entertainment and social services under the same roof. It is important that you learn as much as you can about these services and visit local centers before you or your loved ones need care. To make it easier for everyone, it's best to plan ahead and have the conversation about long term care and visit facilities. By having that sunny day conversation and visits, you can ensure that your loved one will be provided with the highest quality of care and quality of life.