Understanding Alzheimer's Disease Seminar Sept. 18
Contact: Kevin M. Sanders, writer/editor, at (740) 593-0896
ATHENS, Ohio (September 13, 2000) -- Alzheimer's Disease is a progressive, degenerative disease that attacks the brain and results in impaired memory, thinking and behavior. It is the most common form of dementia, yet it remains a puzzle to those who must deal with it. Steven Dinsmore, D.O., neurologist/geriatrician, visiting professor from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, will present "Alzheimer's Pathophysiology and New Treatment Development," on Monday, Sept. 18, at Irvine Hall, Room 194, from noon to 1 p.m.
Dinsmore's presentation will begin with an explanation of the features of Alzheimer's Disease. He will also discuss how the disease is diagnosed, how it affects the body physically, the pathophysiology of the disease and what factors contribute to a person getting the disease. He will finish up with some promising new ideas for future treatment of the disease.
"The cause of Alzheimer's Disease is still not known," said Ellen Peterson, geriatric education coordinator. "Age and family history have been identified as potential risk factors. Researchers are exploring the role of genetics in the development of Alzheimer's Disease, but most agree that the disease is likely caused by a variety of factors. Each year, scientists are uncovering important new clues about potential causes of the disease, which is helping to generate more accurate diagnostic tests and better treatment options for affected individuals." Health-care professionals and the public are invited to the program. Brown bags are welcome. For more information, call the Geriatric Education Center at (740) 593-2258.
The seminar is part of Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine's (OU-COM) fall 2000 continuing education series on geriatric medicine and gerontology, held on the first and third Mondays of each month at O'Bleness Memorial Hospital, Room B-9, from noon to 1 p.m.
This is the first seminar to take place in the fall series. On Oct. 2, Francie Astrom will present "Controversies and Considerations of Medical Nutrition Therapy in Management of Diabetes and Hypertension in the Elderly." Enrico Tan, D.P.M., will present "Common Foot and Nail Disorders in Older Individuals" on Oct. 16. Tracy Marx, D.O., will present "An Overview of Hospice Programs," on Nov. 6. Lea Blackburn will present "Multicultural Aging" on Nov. 20.
"The seminars are designed for an interdisciplinary audience," said Peterson. "Health professionals from the community regularly attend, in addition to interns, residents and medical students. Members of the public are welcome as well, and the diversity of disciplines represented by the participants makes for an interesting exchange of ideas."
Sponsors include the Department of Geriatric Medicine/Gerontology, the Geriatric Medicine Club and OU-COM.
Peterson said the seminar series was started by a federal grant that established OU-COM as a contributing site to the Western Reserve Geriatric Education Center in September 1994 and has supported many continuing education programs. Provided by the Department of Health and Human Services, the grant supports educational programs in geriatric and gerontology for physicians, nurses, social workers, counselors and health-care providers to 22 Southeastern Ohio counties.
