Early-Onset Alzheimer's: A Case Study: Difference between revisions
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'''Abstract''' | |||
Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia. It is characterized by a gradual degradation of various physical and cognitive functions 1. The current case study is about a 42 year old female with early onset Alzheimer’s Disease (EOAD) seeking physiotherapy treatment. Evaluation findings include gait abnormalities, decreased balance and decreased cognition. She presented with forward head posture with slight postural kyphosis and palpable muscle tightness in upper trapezius. Slight weakness in lower extremities, and decreased shoulder flexion bilaterally. The physiotherapy intervention component includes education, home based exercise programs addressing aerobic and strengthening deficits. Following the physiotherapy intervention, Mrs. S improved her AROM, muscular strength, postural control and gait all the while decreasing overall fatigue and risk of falls. Throughout the treatment plan there were no changes in cognitive function. Mrs. S will continue to be involved in interprofessional care to maintain her quality of life. The physiotherapist’s role in EOAD cases is to maximize independence to help prevent the progression of physical and cognitive decline2. In the future, more research must be conducted to determine the adequate frequency, intensity, and duration of treatment for patients with EOAD 3,4. | |||
Revision as of 01:20, 9 May 2019
Abstract Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia. It is characterized by a gradual degradation of various physical and cognitive functions 1. The current case study is about a 42 year old female with early onset Alzheimer’s Disease (EOAD) seeking physiotherapy treatment. Evaluation findings include gait abnormalities, decreased balance and decreased cognition. She presented with forward head posture with slight postural kyphosis and palpable muscle tightness in upper trapezius. Slight weakness in lower extremities, and decreased shoulder flexion bilaterally. The physiotherapy intervention component includes education, home based exercise programs addressing aerobic and strengthening deficits. Following the physiotherapy intervention, Mrs. S improved her AROM, muscular strength, postural control and gait all the while decreasing overall fatigue and risk of falls. Throughout the treatment plan there were no changes in cognitive function. Mrs. S will continue to be involved in interprofessional care to maintain her quality of life. The physiotherapist’s role in EOAD cases is to maximize independence to help prevent the progression of physical and cognitive decline2. In the future, more research must be conducted to determine the adequate frequency, intensity, and duration of treatment for patients with EOAD 3,4.
