Understanding Alzheimers

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects numerous cognitive functions such as memory, thinking, and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for nearly 60-80% of dementia cases worldwide (National Library of Medicine).

This disease leads to progressive decline in cognitive abilities, often starting with mild memory loss (such as misplacing frequently used items) and potentially progressing to severe cognitive impairment that affects basic functions.

Symptoms and Stages

The symptoms of Alzheimer's disease develop slowly and worsen over time. They can be represented by the 7 stages of Alzheimer's:

  1. No Impairment: No symptoms, normal functioning
  2. Very Mild Decline: Slight memory lapses (e.g., misplacing keys), often not noticeable
  3. Mild Decline: Friends/family notice memory issues, trouble finding words or remembering names
  4. Moderate Decline: Clear symptoms emerge - forgetting recent events, losing awareness of time
  5. Moderate to Severe Decline: Needs help with daily activities, can't live independently (lasts ~1-1.5 years)
  6. Severe Decline: Severe memory impairment, trouble recognizing family, speech difficulties, behavioral changes
  7. Very Severe Decline: Loses ability to respond, speak, or control movement - requires 24/7 care

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause remains unclear, but scientists believe multiple factors contribute including genetics, environment, and lifestyle. Two key biological markers are:

  • Amyloid plaques: Abnormal protein clusters between nerve cells
  • Tau tangles: Twisted protein fibers within brain cells

These disrupt brain cell communication and lead to cell death. Major risk factors include:

  • Age: Most significant risk factor - majority of cases occur after 65 (Alzheimer's Society)
  • Genetics: Family history and certain genes (like APOE ε4) increase risk (National Institute of Aging)
  • Heart health: Conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, and high cholesterol
  • Lifestyle factors: Poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and social isolation

How You Can Help

While there's currently no cure, there are meaningful ways to support those affected and contribute to research:

  • Support caregivers: Offer respite care, help with chores, or emotional support
  • Raise awareness: Educate others about symptoms and support options to reduce stigma
  • Contribute to research: Support organizations like Alzheimer's Association and Alzheimer's Research UK

Alzheimer's disease affects millions worldwide. While a cure doesn't yet exist, increased awareness and research funding bring us closer to effective treatments and ultimately, a cure.

References

  1. 2024 Alzheimer's disease facts and figures. (2024). Alzheimer's & Dementia, 20(5), 3708–3821. https://doi.org/10.1002/alz.13809
  2. Mild cognitive impairment. (2025, April 21). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17990-mild-cognitive-impairment
  3. Abraldes, P. R. (2022, June 8). Alzheimer's disease and the Ability to Walk. NursePartners US. https://www.nursepartners.org/alzheimers-ability-walk/
  4. Risk factors for Alzheimer's disease. (2023, April 13). Alzheimer's Society. https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/types-dementia/who-gets-alzheimers-disease
  5. Alzheimer's Disease Genetics Fact Sheet. (2023, March 1). National Institute on Aging. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-causes-and-risk-factors/alzheimers-disease-genetics-fact-sheet
  6. Hakim, A., Ng, N., & Turek, N. (2013). Heart disease as a risk factor for dementia. Clinical Epidemiology, 5, 135. https://doi.org/10.2147/clep.s30621