N
neurofibrillary tangle
Accumulation of twisted protein fragments inside nerve cells. Neurofibrillary tangles are one of the characteristic structural abnormalities found in the brains of Alzheimer patients. Upon autopsy, the presence of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles is used to positively diagnose Alzheimer’s.
neurologist
A physician who diagnoses and treats disorders of the nervous system.
O
P
pacing
Aimless wandering, often triggered by an internal stimulus (e.g., pain, hunger, or boredom) or some distraction in the environment (e.g., noise, smell, temperature).
positron emission tomography scan (PET scan)
An imaging scan that measures the activity or functional level of the brain by measuring its use of glucose
Q
quality care
Term used to describe care and services that allow recipients to attain and maintain their highest level of mental, physical, and psychological function, in a dignified and caring way.
R
reassurance
Encouragement intended to relieve tension, fear, and confusion that can result from dementing illnesses.
respite care
Services that provide people with temporary relief from tasks associated with caregiving (e.g., in-home assistance, short nursing home stays, adult day care).
risk factors
Factors that have been shown to increase one’s odds of developing a disease. In Alzheimer’s disease, the only established risk factors are age, family history, and genetics.
S
Safe Return
The Alzheimer’s Association’s nationwide identification, support, and registration program that assists in the safe return of individuals with Alzheimer’s or related dementia who wander and become lost.
shadowing
Following, mimicking, interrupting behaviors that people with dementia may experience.
skilled nursing care
Level of care that includes ongoing medical or nursing services.
special care unit
Designated area of a residential care facility or nursing home that cares specifically for the needs of people with Alzheimer’s.
stages
Course of disease progression defined by levels or periods of severity: early, mild, moderate, moderately severe, severe.
sundowning
Unsettled behavior evident in the late afternoon or early evening.
support group
Facilitated gathering of caregivers, family, friends, or others affected by a disease or condition for the purpose of discussing issues related to the disease.
T
U
V
W
wandering
Common behavior that causes people with dementia to stray and become lost in familiar surroundings.
X
Y
Z
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