Presenter: Joslynn E. Vautour
Group Members: Uriah Truax
Faculty Sponsor: Kara Roche
School: Mount Wachusett Community College
Research Area: Psychology and Behavioral Sciences
ABSTRACT
The purpose of this project is to take a detailed look at neuropsychology from both a psychology and neuroscience perspective, specifically focusing on both the cognitive and neuroanatomy effects of neurodegenerative disorders, including, but not limited to, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and ALS. While these diseases all fit into the category of neurodegenerative, they have largely different effects on the brain and body and can vary from person to person. Through medical research, psychology papers, and documented journals this project compares how each disorder impacts cognition, behavior and motor functioning.
Individuals diagnosed with neurodegenerative disorders will experience both cognitive and physical impairments related to the specific symptoms of the disorder. With that, this project’s significance is to raise awareness among those who may have these diseases and help bring awareness to those who may have one of these diseases resting in them unknowingly. And in knowing the symptoms and onset of these diseases, people can get diagnosed and treated before the onset. This also brings the benefit of knowing what the future holds, ensuring a head start in the battle of these life-long diseases. Overall, research also shows that early diagnosis of these neurodegenerative disorders can potentially help improve outcomes, reduce/reverse symptoms, and provide better treatment.
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