This case study offers an intimate look at Alzheimer’s disease through the eyes of a granddaughter navigating her family’s experience. Written in a narrative format, it allows students to explore the scientific and emotional dimensions of this neurodegenerative disease in a relatable, engaging way.
This case study goes beyond the textbook to present Alzheimer’s disease in a way that resonates with students. By combining storytelling with science, it fosters empathy while reinforcing biological concepts. The accompanying discussion questions promote critical thinking, connecting classroom learning to real-world applications.
I use this case study with the nervous system unit. The unit includes the anatomy of a neuron and how neurotransmitters act as chemical messengers between the nerves and target cells. I also show a TED-Ed video that goes into detail about TAU proteins and plaques in the brain. As a follow-up activity, you can share the MMSE (Mini Mental State Examination) and have students role-play giving the test to a patient.
What’s Inside the Case Study?
Part 1: The Forgotten Birthday
The story begins with the family noticing subtle changes in Grandma’s behavior. She is forgetting birthdays, misplacing items and struggling with conversations. This section helps students identify the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease while considering how families might initially dismiss these symptoms as normal aging.
Part 2: A Journey Through Diagnosis
Students are guided through the diagnostic process, including cognitive assessments like the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), blood tests to rule out other conditions, and brain imaging techniques such as MRI scans. This section emphasizes the complexity of diagnosing Alzheimer’s and the importance of ruling out other possible causes of dementia symptoms.
Part 3: Understanding the Disease
In this section, the narrative shifts to the science of Alzheimer’s. Students learn about the anatomy and physiology of the disease, including the roles of amyloid plaques, tau tangles, and neuronal loss. The story explains how these changes affect the brain, particularly the hippocampus, and how the disease progresses over time. This provides an opportunity to connect symptoms with their underlying biological causes.
Part 4: Seeking Hope in Treatment
While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, this section highlights the treatments and strategies that can improve quality of life. Students learn about medications like donepezil, lifestyle modifications, memory care programs, and the importance of advanced care planning. This part encourages discussions about balancing hope and realism in managing chronic diseases.
How to Use This in Your Classroom
- Assign the story as a reading activity, followed by class discussions using the included questions.
- Use each part as a springboard to dive deeper into related topics, such as neurobiology, diagnostic techniques, or caregiving.
- Encourage students to reflect on the emotional impact of neurodegenerative diseases, fostering a holistic understanding of health science.
This case study is an invaluable tool for teaching students not only about Alzheimer’s disease but also about the broader implications of living with and managing chronic illnesses. Download this resource today and bring a powerful, human story into your classroom!
Related Resources
The Anatomy of a Synapse (Coloring)
Case Study: Neurons and Cell Communication
Brain Anatomy Coloring
Article: Phineas Gage – a curious case study in brain injury
