Cornell University professor comments on interventions identified by new Alzheimer's guidelines

Paul Eshelman, professor of Design and Environmental Analysis at Cornell University, comments on intervention strategies for earlier stages of Alzheimer's Disease identified by the Alzheimer's Association's new guidelines for diagnosis.

He says:

"Early signs of the disease would be mild, such as a decline in the ability to self initiate, lapses in short-term memory and deterioration of ability to carry on a normal conversation. Although denial and spousal compensation often stand in the way, the ideal is for loved ones to begin practicing positive responses.

"Stimulation that is emotionally laded - family photographs, trophies, collections, memorabilia - has the potential to exercise remaining cognitive ability. To ensure visual and tactile access, consideration should be given to issues such as reach ranges and lighting in displaying personally meaningful items.

"With the guiding concepts of interacting in the moment and prompting appropriate behaviors, family members can start on a course of identifying and implementing interior design interventions that extend the longevity of independent living with Alzheimer's."