Final answer:
The retired man with DAT showed symptoms such as cognitive impairment and mood changes typical of Alzheimer's disease, characterized by the development of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain.
Step-by-step explanation:
The retired man in the case study exhibited typical symptoms of Dementia of the Alzheimer's Type (DAT), a common form of dementia in the elderly, which affects cognition and daily functioning. Alzheimer's disease, the most common cause of dementia, was studied originally by Solomon Carter Fuller and named after Alois Alzheimer. It is characterized by distinct biological changes including the development of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, and an overall reduction in brain volume, particularly impacting neurons in the hippocampus. As the disease progresses, these features become more pronounced, leading to greater cognitive decline and functional impairment.
Alzheimer's Disease is particularly prevalent among the aging population, with substantial financial implications for care. Approximately one in every eight people aged 65 or older is affected by the disease, and based on the aging baby-boomer generation, there could be significantly more Alzheimer's patients in the coming years. The disease not only affects memory and cognitive abilities but can also influence mood and behavior, as seen in Rosa's case where mood swings and irritability were noted by her family. Although there are forms of Alzheimer's with early onset caused by genetic mutations, the vast majority of cases are late-onset and also have potential genetic links.