What is Alzheimer’s disease?
Alzheimer is a neurodegenerative disease and the most common form of dementia and the common thing in this disease is that it causes progressive dementia that begins with the appearance of buildup of protein in the form of plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Dementia is caused by the deterioration and loss of brain cells which causes the degradation of the cognitive abilities including problem solving, memory and communication. Individuals with dementia can have a change of mood, confusion and inability to identify people or places they are familiar with. It affects elderly people and gets progressively worse, affecting everyday life greatly.
Types of Alzheimer’s Disease
There are two most common types of Alzheimer’s disease:
Early Onset Alzheimer’s
- Usually appears between 30 to 60 years of age.
- Often caused due to genetic or family history.
- Less severe than Late On set and can progresses faster.
Late-Onset Alzheimer’s
- Most common type of dementia.
- Typically begins after age of 65.
- Decline in intellectual memory.
- Caused by Genetic, age or lifestyle.
- Lack of communication.
- More severe than early-onset and recovery is slower.
Causes of Alzheimer’s disease
The main causes of Alzheimer’s are:
Genetic
- Family history or genetic mutations are the main cause of Alzheimer’s.
- Gene mutations are connected to Alzheimer’s disease.
Age
- The biggest factor in Alzheimer’s risk is age.
- Usually after the age of 65.
Lifestyle factors
- Lack of physical activity, smoking and poor diet.
- High Blood Pressure, Uncontrolled Diabetes or high Cholesterol.
Brain Changes
- Buildup of protein in the form of plaques and neurofibrillary affects brain cells.
- Communication Loss between neurons.
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease
The main symptoms of Alzheimer’s are:
Behavioral changes
- Mood Change
- Depression and anxiety
- aggression
- Social withdrawal
Memory loss
- Difficulty remembering recent events.
- Forgetting names of family members or friends.
Communication and Language-related Problems
- Difficulty to choose the right words.
- Problems with tracking conversations
- Parroting
Stages of Alzheimer’s disease
Alzheimer’s disease progresses in three stages:
Stage 1
- Mild → Forgetfulness
Stage 2
- Moderate → Confusion stage
Stage 3
- Severe → Terminal stage
Ratio
- 7.2 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s (2025 estimates)
- Global prevalence expected to triple in 2050
Alzheimer’s disease Treatment Naturally
The non-pharmacological interventions for Alzheimer are:
Lifestyle Modification
Maintain Healthy Diet, Have a good sleep pattern and avoid smoking.
Behavioral Therapy
It helps to deal with depression, anxiety and mood swings.
Training
Brain activities like puzzles, games and brain exercises are the best training to deal with this condition.
Social Enhancement
Stay close and enhance attachment with family, friends and community.
Final Thoughts from Neurology Care Center
Alzheimer is the most common cause of dementia and one of the major health problems. It slowly damages the cells that comprise the brain causing memory loss, confusion, mood swings and dependence. Although there is no permanent treatment available, early diagnosis, proper medication and lifestyle change may have a high impact on the quality of life. Social awareness and family participation are also extremely good in dealing with the condition. At Neurology Care Center, the aim is to deliver the high level of care, guidance and support to patients and families helping them to overcome Alzheimer and live with dignity.
