Hawaii's World
By A.A. Smyser
Tuesday, April 23, 1996
One of the appropriate times for me would be soon after I had a diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease. I would want to spare both myself and my loved ones the trek down its tunnel.
Others - mostly notably the Ronald Reagans - feel differently and want so much to enjoy the good experiences that still may occur that they willingly endure the bad.
For all of us, the Honolulu chapter of the Alzheimer's Association has published a useful and very graphic booklet dedicated to the Reagans for "opening their hearts to promote greater awareness of Alzheimer's Disease."
Simply and with poignant graphics, Alzheimer's is described in 58 pages, with the text in large type. The author, Arthur Goodfriend, has written military, medical and other manuals. He is an AmeriCorps*VISTA volunteer attached to the Honolulu Alzheimer's chapter. He has done yeoman service with this work.
It is entitled "A Cloud Hangs Over America - Alzheimer's" and has the subtitle: "What Everyone Needs to Know About the Silent Epidemic of the Century."
The price is $6 (larger contributions welcome) at the Honolulu chapter office in Ward Warehouse, Building B, second floor. You also may call 591-2771 or write the office at 1050 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu HI 96814.
An inside disclaimer says: "This booklet is written for readers willing to face the facts, however painful, about a disease that tries the patience of a saint. It may not sit well with others who prefer a more sentimental statement."
"Alzheimer's is a disease that destroys the brain," it says flatly and then shows how the disintegration progresses.
The book's focuses on three areas: Why the afflicted act as they do. How to respond. How to survive the ongoing ordeal. It also tells how the disease was first identified in Germany in 1906 but got little organized attention until a few citizens set up an Alzheimer's Association in Minneapolis in 1979.
Research into causes and possible cures - none yet - also has been slow to get under way even though some 4 million Americans are afflicted.
Notable among its victims have been actors Dana Andrews and David Niven, actresses Rita Hayworth and Arlene Francis, artist William de Kooning, composer Aaron Copeland, opera manager Rudolf Bing and boxer Sugar Ray Robinson. There is some evidence the disease runs in families. Ronald Reagan's mother was a victim.
AS victims' brains are destroyed under the onslaught of Alzheimer's, they turn to childlike, exasperating and impossible actions. This can go on for years.
Each case is unique but certain behavior patterns are common to many. Ten case studies are described.
Caretakers are offered a menu to help them cope: "Take two heaping cups of patience, one heart full of love, two hands-full of generosity, a dash of laughter, one head full of understanding, sprinkle generously with kindness, add plenty of faith, and mix well. Spread these over the days, months, years of loved one's lifetime - and save enough for yourself."
Care-givers often can find solace and strength in meeting with other care-givers. The Alzheimer's Association helps organize such neighborhood groups.