Introduction to my epq
My project focuses on Alzheimer’s due to personal reasons that sparked my initial interest in the topic.
I chose this specific title as it allows me to explore different aspects of Alzheimer’s. After evaluating different titles, I decided the one I chose was best fitted to the aim of my EPQ as it allows me to explore both the biological understanding of the disease as well as the profound emotional and practical effects it has on people living with it and those who care for them.
I wanted to specifically place emphasis on the social impact as I knew I would be able carry out primary research by taking part in interpersonals with workers from my grandads care home as well as my nan.
Essay layout intro
To begin the essay, I decided to introduce overall why I chose my essay title and how I plan to carry out my research for this particular topic. I also put emphasis on how I plan to explore each subtopic in depth to reach an analytical conclusion.
What is alzheimers essay layout
Once ive introduced the reasoning for my title and overall plan to undertake my writing - I begin by explaining what alzheimers is and how it affects the brain.
Alzheimer’s disease causes parts of the brain—especially the medial temporal lobe—to shrink. This area is important for memory, so people with Alzheimer’s often have memory problems. The disease happens partly because certain proteins build up outside brain cells and form amyloid plaques. These plaques can weaken and disconnect the links between nerve cells. Which can block communication between nuerons leading to decreased functioning abilities.
Factors that cause of alzheimers
Genetics - gene factors have been proven to increase or decrease the risk of alzheimers. For example there are alleles of apolioprotein (breaks down amyloid) that are less effective in the breakdown of protein tangles outside of cells meaning neurosignalling so if the person inherits this particular gene it will have a significant impact of persosn chance alzheimers.
Environment - i have discovered social factors such as deprivation can increase chances of Alzheimers due to lack of opportunities and therfore lack of brain stimulation. Also pollution contains compound mangenite which can end up in brain cells via the blood. Is found in amyloid plaque. Strong relationship of causes of development.
Lifestyle
Progression of alzheimer’s
In this section i mainly focus on an interview with a carehome i carried out during the summer here i got given infromation about medications they feel best works for not only treating the disease but comforting the patient. I also carried out observations of different patients at the home over a 12 month period. This showed me that each patient has individual experiences. I felt primary research was best for this section as it includes emotional impact
Impact
Social impact - family may face social isolation as caring demands increase and free time diminishes
Emotional impact for both patients and families - frustration with loss of memory and families suffering with an ambigious loss or anticipatory grief
Financial impact - adaptations to home, long term care costs and balancing work and caring life
Conclusion
Speak about at end of essay
Reason i chose this epq Personal interest
I was directly affected by the impact of Alzheimer’s due to my grandad being a sufferer of 7 years before he passed away. Therefore, I have always been fascinated by how the brain functions and how Alzheimer’s can drastically affect behaviour and memory as I have seen it with first hand experience.
This project will help me combine empathy with curiosity as I am motivated to understand the causes and progression of such a complex medical disease.
Future career aspirations
Likewise, in the future, I intend to study in a medical field which means research and medical attention is likely to a very relevant part of my career.
Studying Alzheimer’s disease gives me valuable insight into neurodegenerative disorders, patient care, and ongoing developments in biomedical science. This project provides an opportunity to develop research and analytical skills that will be essential in university and in any future medical or scientific career.
Academic development
Alzheimer’s is a complex topic with ongoing debates and discoveries, so it encourages critical thinking, evaluating sources, and forming evidence-based arguments. The project allows me to read scientific papers and research beyond the A-level curriculum, which will give me an academic advantage and show universities my motivation to learn independently.
Relevance to todays society
Alzheimer’s is one of the most pressing health challenges in an ageing population, making it a socially and scientifically relevant topic.
With no known cure yet, exploring Alzheimer’s allows me to learn about the research and innovative treatments being developed, sparking my curiosity for scientific progress.
What is my overall aim
The main aim of this project is to explore how the causes and progression of Alzheimer’s disease affect the quality of life of both patients and their families.
I intend to investigate the biological mechanisms behind the disease, how these lead to cognitive and behavioural changes, and the emotional, social, and practical consequences these have on daily living and caregiving.
Assess effects on families and care givers
Explore the emotional, financial, and psychological challenges faced by families caring for someone with Alzheimer’s.
To review current strategies and research aimed at improving quality of life
Examine the effectiveness of current treatments, therapies, and community initiatives.
To develop analytical and evaluative skills through independent research
Use academic sources, research papers, and case studies to critically evaluate evidence
Undertsnad bilogical causes of alzheimers disease
I will achieve this by researching key neurological and genetic factors involved such as the roles of amyloid plaques.
To examine how disease progresses over time
Outline the different stages of Alzheimer’s and the symptoms associated with each stage
Analyse how disease progression influences the independence of individuals
Evaluate impact on patients quality of life
Investigate how cognitive decline, loss of autonomy, and behavioural symptoms affect patients’ emotional wellbeing, self-identity, and social relationships.
Consider how medical interventions, support systems, and care environments can improve or maintain quality of life.
Primary source
Eg interview with my nan
Aided my understanding on the personal impact of Alzheimer’s on how this disease impacts family members. Allows me to ask questions out of spontaneity to reach further depth in analysis.
Limited, potential bias by emotional influence and not scientific explanations
Websitte
Nhs wbsite
Content reviewed by medical professionals. Free and widely accessible.
Information generalised for a diverse audience. Not tailored for individual cases.
Books
What dementia teaches us about love
Personal human perspective, holistic view (combining personal stories and interviews). Accessible.
Subjective, based on personal experience not scientific evidence. Limited generalisation does not describe all experiences.
Overall lessons i have learned - deeper understanding of alzheimers and broader impact
I have gained detailed understanding of the biological causes and progression of Alzheimer’s disease such as how amyloid plaques disrupt brain function.
Helped me learn how scientific processes translate into real life challenges for patients and families.
Lessons - development of independant research
It has taught me how to work independently over a long period of time - planning, managing deadlines and maintaining motivation.
My ability of being able to find reliable academic sources, evaluate different viewpoints and assessing credibility has strengthened my academic confidence.
