Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disease that destroys memory and thinking skills. Alzheimer’s disease can be treated, but as yet there is no cure. As the disease advances, people may experience increasing confusion and be unable to recognize members of their family. They may even forget their own names. In the later stages of the disease, people with Alzheimer’s may be unable to perform the basic tasks of self-care. Rates of Alzheimer’s are expected to increase dramatically as the U.S. population rises, posing serious challenges to health care providers, families, and society.  (Opposing Viewpoints)

• How common is Alzheimer's disease among people over 65 years old?
• Discuss the possibilities of preventing or delaying Alzheimer's.
• How promising are treatments such as genetic therapy, vaccines, and enzymes like Beta-Secretase in treating Alzheimer's?
• Are researchers close to finding an effective treatment for Alzheimer's disease?
• Could a surge of new Alzheimer's cases bankrupt the Medicare and Medicaid programs?
• What types of social and financial assistance is available for someone caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's
• What role does stem cell research play in the fight against Alzheimer's disease?