Summary:
Apathy is a symptom of dementia. The term apathy means when a person loses interest in what is happening around them. Although losing interest may not seem like a behavior problem, it can be very hard for caregivers to handle. Clinically significant apathy is one of the most prevalent and important neuropsychiatric symptoms in patients with dementia. Apathy represents a constellation of symptoms, such as
- lack of motivation to do, complete, or accomplish anything.
- Experience low energy levels.
- Diminished emotions, motivation, and willingness to act.
- Activities or events that normally interest you may create little to no response.
- Social disengagement
- cognitive impairment
- Loss of emotion that result in impaired decision-making
- Loss of interest in personal wellbeing or external issues
- Inability to initiate and maintain activities
- Interference with complex and basic daily function, including motivation to eat, dress, maintain personal hygiene, and take medications.
The presence of apathy has been shown to be related to decreased quality of life, increased morbidity and mortality, and early institutionalization and greater resource utilization resulting from increased caregiver distress and in addition, apathy is a key predictor of progression from mild cognitive impairment to AD dementia. Therefore, the management of apathy is an important component in caring for patients with dementia. Currently, there are no approved treatments for apathy.
Criteria:Volunteers may qualify if they are:
- Participants must be between the ages of 50-85 years old
- Diagnosed with any symptoms of Memory Loss, Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
- Have a legal guardian, family member or representative who can provide information about the participant to the study doctor and study staff, including information about the participants behavior, mental state, memory and ability to think and perform day to day tasks.
Qualified Participants May Receive:
Participant who qualify will receive:
- Study Related Exams, EKG & Lab Work at No Cost
- Complimentary Transportation
- No Insurance Required
- compensation for time and travel