Alzheimer's Disease
The historical evolution of concepts of senile dementia and Alzheimer's disease are outlined and it is suggested that the evolution of conceptions of the disease have been influenced as much by notions of what constituted "normal aging" as by scientific research concerned with understanding ageassociated neurological diseases.
Abstract
Synopsis Alzheimer's disease is currently considered to be one ofthe most pervasive forms ofsenile dementia. But the acceptance of the dise as a routine cause ofwhat has generally been termed "senility," is a relatively recent occurrence. The development of conceptions not only of Alzheimer's disease, but of senile dementia in general, have shifted significantly throughout history and have been influenced as much by notions ofwhat constituted "normal aging" as by scientific research concerned with understanding ageassociated neurological diseases. This paper outlines the historical evolution of concepts of senile dementia and Alzheimer's disease and suggests that the evolution of conceptions ofthe disease have been