For this assignment, you will locate at least five scholarly and/or appropriate sources and create a discussion of the articles as they apply to your topic. In other words, you will create and submit
The Effects of Alzheimer's Disease on Cognitive and Behavioral Functions
Name
University
Abstract
Introduction
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an irreversible and progressive brain disorder affecting millions worldwide. AD is the most typical dementia cause in older adults, accountable for up to 70% of all cases (Scheltens et al., 2021). AD is categorized by the accumulation of abnormal proteins, like amyloid-beta and tau, in the brain, which leads to the degeneration and death of brain cells, particularly in areas involved in memory, learning, and reasoning. AD is a major public health issue that has significant social and economic consequences, as it affects not only the individuals with the disease but also their families and caregivers and places a substantial burden on healthcare systems and society as a whole.
Hypothesis
The main hypothesis of this paper is that AD has a profound impact on cognitive and behavioral functions, leading to significant impairment in daily activities, social interactions, and quality of life that eventually lead to needing assistance and/or a caregiver. This hypothesis will be supported by a review of the literature on the clinical manifestations and neuropsychological deficits associated with AD.
Key Terms
Alzheimer's disease: This is a disorder (neurodegenerative) that influences cognitive and behavioral functions and is characterized by the accumulation of abnormal proteins in the brain.
Dementia: a broad term that refers to a decline in cognitive function, including memory, language, and reasoning, that interferes with daily activities.
Neuropsychological deficits: impairments in cognitive functions, like attention, language, memory, and executive functions, that are associated with neurological conditions (Peña-Casanova et al., 2021).
Amyloid-beta: a protein that forms plaques in the brains of individuals with AD.
Tau: a protein that forms tangles in the brains of individuals with AD.
Literature Review
References
Peña-Casanova, J., Sánchez-Benavides, G., de Sola, S., Manero-Borrás, R. M., & Casals-Coll, M. (2012). Neuropsychology of Alzheimer's disease. Archives of medical research, 43(8), 686-693.
Scheltens, P., De Strooper, B., Kivipelto, M., Holstege, H., Chételat, G., Teunissen, C. E., ... & van der Flier, W. M. (2021). Alzheimer's disease. The Lancet, 397(10284), 1577-1590.
