Alzheimer’s disease is a major national health problem. Nearly 2 million Americans over the age of 65 have Alzheimer’s disease. It is a leading cause of death among the elderly. But Alzheimer’s disease is not confined(限于)to the aged. There may be a million or more people under the age of 65 suffering from the disease.
At one time, people suffering from the disease were said to be“getting old”.The disease was though to be a natural part of growing old, but it is now known that Alzheimer’s disease strikes young and old alike. It is an organic(器官的)disease that destroys brain cells.
Alzheimer’s disease affects the patient’s memory, speech, and movement. In the beginning stages of the disease, the patient may seem slightly confused. He may have trouble speaking. Then the patient’s memory begins to fail. He may forget dates, telephone numbers, names and plans.
As the disease progresses, the patient may not recognize family and friends. These symptoms(症状)often cause terrible anxiety in the patient. He may feel lost and frightened. Sometimes the patient reacts with wild and bad behavior.
In the last stages of the disease, the patient may not be able to take care of himself. He may have lost the ability to speak and walk.
Scientists don’t know exactly what causes Alzheimer’s disease. It may be caused by a virus(病毒).It may be caused by a poisonous substance(物质)in the environment. At present, there is no cure for the disease. But there are ways to slow its progress. Exercise and physical treatment can help the patients of this disease.
小题1:The main idea of the passage is that Alzheimer’s disease________.
A．is a terrible part of the aging process
B．is an organic disease that affects young and old
C．can be cured by physical treatment
D．causes forgetfulness小题2:All of the following are symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease EXCEPT_________.
A. forgetfulness B. difficulty in speaking
.loss of sight D. loss of the ability to walk
小题3:According to the passage, which of the following may be a cause of Alzheimer’s disease?
A．Poisons produced by the brain.
B．Getting old.
C．A virus.
D．Lack of exercise.小题4:he progress of Alzheimer’s disease can be slowed by________.
A．operation
B．a change in environment
C．medicines
D．physical treatment and exercise
