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Alzheimer's Disease, 2006.
This paper describes Alzheimer's disease and some suspected causes.
1,497 words (approx. 6.0 pages), 6 sources, APA, $ 49.95
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Abstract
This paper describes the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease and examines possible causes for the condition. A description of the discovery of the disease is followed by a discussion of its symptoms. A significant portion of the paper is a review of current literature regarding causes of Alzheimer's disease. The paper concludes with a description of populations at risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.
Table of Contents
AD History
Suspected Causes of AD
Is AD Contagious?
Is it Caused by Something we Eat?
Other Risk Factors
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Proteins, not necessarily those consumed but rather those made in the body, have also formed a basis for AD research. Pathologist George C. Glenner, in 1983, examined the molecular structure of [beta]-amuloid, a structure that constitutes the tip of the plaques present in AD, and discovered that the concentration of these amyloids is particularly high, appearing like strips of sticky substance spilled on a floor and gumming up the works (Odle, 2003). Since Glenner's work, new research indicates that [beta]-amyloid is toxic to neurons, and could therefore easily lead to cell destruction."
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Detecting, Documenting and Reporting Incidents of Elder Abuse, 2006.
A study of the detection, documentation and reporting incidents of elder abuse.
1,875 words (approx. 7.5 pages), 13 sources, MLA, $ 59.95
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Abstract
This paper provides a background of the problem of elder abuse followed by a review and discussion of the relevant literature. The study uses a retrospective review of adverse patient incident reports in selected Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Centers (VAMCs) and domiciles in the United States. The paper determines what controlling legislation is in place and the associated responsibilities for healthcare practitioners. It notes that the next step involves detecting and substantiating cases of elder abuse when they occur or are suspected of having occurred. The paper further discusses what should be done when abuse has taken place. A summary of the research is provided in the conclusion, where it is noted that virtually all sources suggest the rates of elder abuse are on the increase. However, the definitions of elder abuse have been sufficiently codified in recent years that such incidents can be identified and, when appropriate, reported, investigated and actions can be taken to prevent such abuse in the future.
From the Paper
"Today, there are more elderly than ever before, and their numbers are expected to increase as a percentage of the population in the coming years (Litwin & Zoabi, 2004). Based on this increase in numbers of elderly citizens, it is also reasonable to assume that there will be a concomitant increase in the incidence of elder abuse as well. In fact, in recent years, elder abuse by family members has been identified as a growing problem in Western societies (Bergeron & Gray, 2003; Litwin & Zoabi, 2004); however, it is difficult or perhaps even impossible to know whether elder abuse is actually increasing or decreasing because there is a paucity of national prevalence studies (Litwin & Zoabi, 2004; Johnson, 1991; Ebersole & Hess, 1998). The data that is available, though, suggests that the incidence of elder abuse is on the increase, particularly among those aged 75 years and above (Pritchard, 1993). According to the National Elder Abuse Incidence Study, the most accurate national estimate is that a total of 449,924 elderly people, aged 60 years and over, were the victims of abuse and/or neglect in domestic settings alone in 1996 (p. 6). Furthermore, of that number, just 16 percent or so, or approximately 71,987 cases, were actually reported to elder protection agencies (Bergeron & Gray, 2003). This means that across the country, there were approximately 380,000 cases of elder abuse in the home that went unreported - which is not to say undetected - during that year. Moreover, the National Center on Elder Abuse estimated the number of elder abuse cases across the country in all settings to be from 820,000 to 1,860,000 (cited in Ebersole & Hess, 1998). In reality, though, it does not matter whether elder mistreatment is increasing or decreasing because the fact that some elder citizens continue to experience unnecessary suffering is adequate to warrant attention (Johnson, 1991)."
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Epidemiology of Staphylococcus Aureus, 2006.
The study of staphylococcus aureus, a highly infectious disease in hospitals which particularly affects the elderly.
1,412 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 47.95
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Abstract
One of the more challenging problems associated with hospital stays is the nosocomial infections which are caused primarily by staphylococcus aureus. The pathogen appears to be developing specific resistances to the pharmacological weapons developed to date, and the disease continues to represent a threat for many elderly people and those who are already weakened by other physical problems. To determine the cause and potential continuing threat represented by this bacterium, this paper provides a review of the epidemiology of staphylococcus aureus to determine the development of the current body of knowledge about the disease. This is followed by a summary of the research and concludes that this threat will continue and the precautions that need to be taken to try to avoid it.
From the Paper
"While the world has never been a sterile place, it would seem that one of the most prevalent and virulent of mankind's microscopic foes has always been Staphylococcus aureus. In fact, staphylococci are ubiquitous, and approximately 30 percent to 50 percent of healthy human beings will be carrying staphylococci at any one time (Eidson, Olson & Sewell, 1997). Staphylococcus aureus is a genus of spherical bacteria of the family Micrococcaceae; the Staphylococcus aureus is universally present in enormous numbers on the mucous membranes and skin of humans and other warm-blooded animals. The umbrella term, "staphylococcus" is popularly used for all the species of the family, and is a reference to the cells' tendency to aggregate in grapelike clusters (Staphylococcus, 2005). Staphylococci are microbiologically characterized as gram-positive (in young cultures), non-spore-forming, nonmotile, facultative anaerobes (e.g., not requiring oxygen); the cells of S. aureus average 1 mm (micrometer; 1 mm = 10-6 meter) in diameter and are usually clustered (Staphylococcus, 2005)."
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Music Therapy and Alzheimer's Disease, 2006.
This paper reviews and analyzes the published literature pertaining to the use of music therapy in caring for individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and dementia.
1,123 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 38.95
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Abstract
This paper delves into how and why musical therapy offers a better quality of life when used with patients suffering from the effects of dementia or Alzheimer's. The writer of this paper details the results of the Remington study which exposed individuals to either music, massage or both in 10-minute intervals to see both the long and short-term effects it had on patients diagnosed with dementia and Alzheimer's. The writer analyzes the published scientific reports and studies that prove music and music therapy stimulates the minds of young children and can thus be used in older individuals to aid in re-stimulating the mind. This paper focuses on both the physical and psychological side-effects of dementia and Alzheimer's before music therapy as well as after receiving treatment. This paper also examines the genetic and environmental causes of dementia and Alzheimer's as well as the importance of early detection in order to offset, at least temporarily, the eventually devastating side-effects of both diseases.
From the Paper
"Some studies have also indicated that the risk of developing dementia rises when the individual has a lower education and lower lifetime occupational achievement. Because of this, the importance of stimulating the mind and keeping it active can readily be seen. This is largely where music therapy comes into the equation. Music does stimulate the mind, and there is scientific evidence that children that study music perform better in school. With this in mind, music can then be used to help those whose minds are starting to fail, by stimulating those minds once again. This may not work for everyone with dementia, but studies have shown that there are some positive effects for most individuals, and that is certainly enough to warrant a further examination of the issue. Music therapy has been used for some time for the elderly."
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Ageism, 2006.
A discussion on the general welfare of the aged.
1,976 words (approx. 7.9 pages), 16 sources, MLA, $ 62.95
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Abstract
This paper explores the history of discrimination against the elderly, known as ageism. It discusses how Maggie Kuhn became an activist and created the Senior Rights' Organization named the 'Gray Panthers'. The author expands on the aims of this organization to bring about awareness, better social welfare and legislation for equal opportunities within the job arena.
From the Paper
"It appears that some policies deliberately exclude or segregate certain minority groups like African-American, and so on, and women and the elderly are also considered to be among the minority group of oppressed citizens. (Continuum on becoming an anti-racist multi-cultural institution) However, not everywhere is there discrimination against the ageing population; in fact, the policy named 'Culturally Appropriate Aged Care', supports the various 'Access and Equity Policies', which make sure that the elderly population of Australia, irrespective of their cultural or racial or linguistic backgrounds, would have an equal amount of 'culturally appropriate aged care', and since the implementation of this program would require that languages other than English would have to be used, this is also taken care of, and this means that the policy would benefit not only those people form indigenous communities, but also immigrants from non-English speaking countries."
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Late Adulthood Bereavement, 2006.
A discussion on bereavement focusing on people in their late adulthood.
1,507 words (approx. 6.0 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 49.95
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Abstract
This paper begins with a definition of bereavement and grief. Loss of a spouse is rated as the most stressful life event across all ages and cultural backgrounds. The paper continues to explore the myriad of literature on the topic of dealing with grief in late adulthood. In conclusion, it explores the diagnosis, symptoms and treatment of grief.
From the Paper
"At least 10 -20 percent of widows and widowers develop clinically significant depression during the first year of bereavement, and without treatment, such depressions tend to persist, become chronic and lead to further disability and impairments (Older pp). Bereavement-associated depression often coexists with another type of emotional distress, which has been termed traumatic grief, the symptoms of which, although not formalized as a mental disorder in DSM-IV, appear to be a mixture of symptoms of both pathological grief and post-traumatic stress disorder (Older pp). Such symptoms are extremely disabling, associated with functional and health impairment and with persistent suicidal thoughts, and may well respond to pharmacotherapy (Older pp)."
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Music Therapy, 2006.
An analysis of the use of music therapy in the care of patients with Alzheimer's disease/dementia.
887 words (approx. 3.5 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 31.95
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Abstract
Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease/dementia and it gets progressively worse as the patient continues to age. Despite the lack of a cure, however, there are some treatments that are just coming to light where Alzheimer's disease/dementia is concerned and many of these are alternative treatments, such as music therapy.This paper attempts to determine whether music therapy can improve the quality of life and cognitive function of patients that suffer from Alzheimer's disease/dementia and whether the medications that these individuals take affect this music therapy in any way.
Outline
Statement of the Problem
Research Question
Significance of the Research
Potential Contribution to the Discipline of Nursing
The Appropriateness of the Qualitative Research Approach
From the Paper
"Music therapy has been used in the past, largely on the elderly population, whether or not these individuals were suffering from Alzheimer's disease or any kind of dementia. A study that was conducted into this issue looked at the effect of calming music, the effect of hand massage, and the effect of both of these things together on a sample population of elderly nursing home residents (Remington, 2002). The results of the study indicated that nonphysical aggressiveness did decrease somewhat during and after the treatments, but that combining the music and the massage had no greater effect than simply using one or the other of the therapies (Remington, 2002). Other studies have also looked at the use of music to control fear, pain, nervousness, and other issues."
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The Elderly and Driver's Tests, 2006.
A look at the need to reassess policies regarding the vision of elderly drivers.
4,158 words (approx. 16.6 pages), 25 sources, MLA, $ 111.95
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Abstract
Due to the population change in the United States, or what is called the "graying of America," the next couple of decades will significantly increase the number of individuals over the age of 65 who are driving on the country's roadways. This paper examines how, because a variety of physical and psychological conditions that either become worse or arise after the age of 50, and because older individuals are involved with a greater number of motor vehicle accidents, it would seem practical that proactive measures be taken at this time. It suggests that special examinations be developed and administered prior to re-licensing that test for the conditions that are most prevalent with aging so that the safety of older individuals and others on the road will be protected.
Outline
Abstract
Historical Background
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Across the country, states are thus assessing the need for drivers tests for elderly. Pennsylvania law requires a doctor to report any condition that impairs a patient's ability to drive. Of 21,000 reports on questionable drivers filed with Pennsylvania officials in 2004, nearly 6,000 resulted in license suspensions, with 181 of the suspensions because of neurological disorders like Alzheimer's disease. In Canada, drivers over 80 are required to take medical examinations before renewing driver's licenses in British Columbia. Ontario drivers over 80 may have to take a road test every two years. Florida, the state with the largest percentage of seniors, issues licenses for six years, but drivers over 79 must pass a vision test. "
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Dementia, 2006.
An overview of the causes and treatment of different types of dementia.
1,717 words (approx. 6.9 pages), 11 sources, MLA, $ 55.95
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Abstract
Dementia is a deficiency of mental ability acute enough to hinder with normal actions of daily living, which persists for more than six months, which is not present from birth and which is not connected with loss or modification of consciousness. This paper examines the causes, influences and treatment of dementia and looks at how taking care of people with dementia is a physically, mentally and emotionally strenuous task.
Outline
Introduction
Causes for Dementia
Dementia Related Behaviors
Dementia Influenced by Environment
Environment Modifications to Treat Dementia
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The term Dementia is used for a range of states that include loss of mental ability and so is the reason for problems with memory, language, behavior and emotions. In the elderly people, Dementia is common. To some extent this affects people above the age of 65. Dementia is caused by problems in the manner in which the brain functions. The cause for Dementia is the non-functioning or dying of neurons. This often alters the levels of different neurotransmitters, which affect the function of the brain. Dementia is not a standard part of ageing. It is different from the slight poor memory that occurs in the elderly."
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?Grumpier Old Men? and Self-Care, 2006.
Applies a theory of self-care on the characters in this movie.
1,132 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 39.95
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Abstract
This paper presents a detailed examination of self-care for a movie family, as seen in "Grumpier Old Men" and applied to Dorothea Orem's self-care framework concept. The writer explores the movie characters and compares them against theory to explain what the characters do for their self initiated activities and care.
From the Paper
"The movie Grumpier Old Men is a perfect silver screen production for the purpose of analyzing the theory as it relates to family because the family includes young adults, middle aged adults and senior citizens. One of the theory's most fundamental concepts relates to self care and self initialized activities. The two main characters, Max and John are senior citizens who have been fighting with each other for more than three decades. In the movie, John is married and people in the family believe that Max is missing out by not being married too."
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Ethnic Diversity, 2003.
This paper examines the topic of immigration, while focusing primarily on the difficulties encountered by the elderly that immigrate to America.
706 words (approx. 2.8 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 25.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the important differences in social customs between former communist countries and the U.S., that impact on immigration as well as immigrants. The writer of this paper contends and explains that although many nationalities have established support systems already in place, many support networks geared towards elderly immigrants continue to remain weak. This paper discusses the many challenges faced by elderly immigrants to America. This paper shows why younger immigrants have a distinct advantage over their elderly counterparts, in terms of coping ability and a diminished need for a support system. In this regard, elderly immigrants from the formerly communist nations of Eastern Europe in general and the Czech Republic, in particular, are faced with various profound changes in their lives upon their arrival in America, which are discussed in this paper.
From the Paper
"While many nationalities have such established support systems already in place, many such immigrant support networks remain weak today. Furthermore, these elderly citizens will likely be accustomed to a level of respect and honor that may be missing from the cultural setting upon their arrival in the United States, further contributing to the potential for "culture shock." According to Haskins, culture shock is "a feeling of impotence that results from the inability to deal with the environment because of unfamiliarity with cognitive aspects and role-playing skills; we usually think of culture shock when we imagine immigrant groups visiting or moving to a new country." There are opportunities for culture shock across all measures for new immigrant, many of them unperceived and unexpected from the host nation's perspective."
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Educational Activities for the Elderly, 2006.
Questions whether educational activities lead to wellness in older adults in alternative care facilities.
6,028 words (approx. 24.1 pages), 24 sources, APA, $ 142.95
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Abstract
The United States is experiencing a fundamental shift in demographics as the percentage of elderly citizens continues to increase. More and more people will become residents of nursing homes, retirement communities, skilled nursing facilities and other alternative residential arrangements in the future. Much remains unclear about what the impact of this transition from a gainfully employed lifestyle to one without such outside activities might be on this segment of the population. To this end, this study seeks to determine the extent to which educational activities contribute to wellness in older adults in alternative care facilities such as nursing homes and retirement communities through a qualitative review of the scholarly and peer-reviewed literature.
Paper Outline:
Description of Study
Purpose and Potential Benefits
Background and Overview
Nursing Homes, Retirement Communities and Quality of Care Issues
Effectiveness of Educational Activities on Wellness
Peer Counseling
Volunteer Training and Other Senior Roles
Distance Learning Applications in Nursing Homes and Other Assisted Living Facilities
Works Cited
From the Paper
"Peer counseling training is an important service that seniors can provide. For example, a newsletter from a long-term care facility posted in settings where senior citizens gather or reside, explaining various volunteer activities (such as entertaining, office work, transportation aide, cafeteria attendants, activity assistants, workshop assistants, boutique salespeople, gardeners, and friendly visitors) would be a useful method of recruiting volunteers (Ebersole & Hess 727). A number of such alternative care facilities have already implemented peer counseling training programs in which volunteers learn interviewing skills and develop their ability to deal with patients who are lonely, depressed, or dying."
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