First Advisor

Lauren Bouchard

Date of Award

Spring 6-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Public Health Studies: Pre-clinical Health Science and University Honors

Department

OHSU-PSU School of Public Health

Language

English

Subjects

Alcohol related brain damage, alcohol related dementia, dementia, Korsakoff’s syndrome, young-onset dementia

DOI

10.15760/honors.1487

Abstract

Introduction: Alcohol related dementia (ARD) is a long-term, heterogeneous cognitive impairment that can develop in the course of excessive and prolonged use of alcohol. This integrative literature review evaluated the relevant research, preventative measures, and early detection of brain changes leading to memory impairment as a result of the chronic consumption of alcohol.. Widespread prevention and detection of ARD can be achieved through the support of healthcare professionals in understanding, observing, and catching behavioral patterns ahead of time to properly direct treatment. The risk factors associated with an early diagnosis of dementia include, but are not limited to, abnormal brain changes, cognitive impairment, inability to execute activities of daily living (ADLs), and perform independent functionality.

Methods: This integrative literature review is a critical analysis of the ARD peer reviewed research literature By providing evidence-based conclusions of literature that matched a certain set of criteria can eliminate the need for time-consuming research on literature that may be irrelevant to the topic at hand. Qualitative and quantitative research will be acknowledged and reviewed.

Results: Findings from the peer reviewed literature found between Wernicke’s Encephalopathy, Korsakoff’s syndrome, alcohol related brain damage and alcohol related dementia. The four treatment solution themes identified were : cognitive behavioral therapy, memantine treatment, pharmacological treatment and treatment cycles.

Comments

An undergraduate honors thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelors of Science in University Honors and Public Health.

Persistent Identifier

https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/41969

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