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Alzheimer's Disease

Home > Illnesses and Disabilities Home > Types of Illnesses & Disabilities > Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia in older people. Dementia is group of symptoms that are caused by disorders affecting brain functions such as memory, thinking, and judgment. These changes in brain function make it hard to carry out daily activities.

AD begins slowly. In the early stage of AD, you may have trouble remembering recent events or the names of people you know. In the middle stages, you may forget how to do simple tasks like brushing your teeth or combing your hair. You may have problems speaking, understanding, reading, or writing. Later on, people with AD may wander away from home and get lost. Eventually, they need total care.

How fast AD progresses varies from person to person. On average, people with AD live from 8 to 10 years after they are diagnosed. But some people may live with AD for as many as 20 years.

AD usually begins after age 60, and the risk of getting it goes up with age. Among people aged 85 and older, nearly half may have the disease. It is important to note, though, that AD is not a normal part of aging.

The cause of AD is unknown, and there is no cure. But there are medicines that may improve memory and thinking for a while in the early and middle stages of the disease. There are also medicines that may help with behavioral symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and wandering.

Additional Resources

Publications

1.   Age Page: Forgetfulness: It's Not What you Think - This fact sheet explains the differences between normal aging and forgetfulness and dementia. The diagnosis, treatment options, and research issues are considered.

   http://www.nia.nih.gov/HealthInformation/Publications/forgetfulness.htm

2.   Alzheimer's Disease - This website provides general information on Alzheimer’s disease. It discusses the causes, risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and further research in reference to this disease. It also contains information for caregivers.

   http://nihseniorhealth.gov/alzheimersdisease/toc.html

3.   Alzheimer's Disease Fact Sheet - This fact sheet discusses how Alzheimer's disease is not a normal part of aging. It describes the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and care for those with Alzheimer's disease.

   http://www.nia.nih.gov/Alzheimers/Publications/adfact.htm

4.   Alzheimer's Disease Medications Fact Sheet - This publication contains information on the medications used to treat mild to severe forms of Alzheimer's disease. In addition, it explains the recommended dosages and the possible side effects.

   http://www.nia.nih.gov/Alzheimers/Publications/medicationsfs.htm

5.   Can Alzheimer's Disease be Prevented? - The brochure explains the risk factors for Alzheimer's disease we can't control and the possible risk factors we can control that are being researched at the National Institutes of Health, such as high blood pressure, physical activity, estrogen, and more.

   http://www.nia.nih.gov/Alzheimers/Publications/ADPrevented/

6.   Home Safety for People with Alzheimer's Disease - This publication intended for caregivers provides information on safety for people with Alzheimer's disease. It lists safety concerns for each room of the house, for events or gatherings, for driving, and for emergency situations.

   http://www.nia.nih.gov/Alzheimers/Publications/homesafety.htm

7. Depression and Alzheimer's Disease (Copyright © AAFP) - This fact sheet discusses the link between Alzheimer's disease and depression, how to help a family member suffering from depression and Alzheimer's, the important role a physician can play, and what types of medicines can help. It also includes a resource list for more information.

   http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/seniors/mental-health/044.html

8. Financial Matters (Copyright © Alzheimer's Association) - This fact sheet from the Alzheimer's Association describes what documents to gather when searching for financial assistance, costs you may face, ways to cover the costs, and more.

   http://www.alz.org/living_with_alzheimers_financial_matters.asp

Organizations

1.   Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral Center, NIA, NIH, HHS
2.   National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, NIH, HHS
3.   National Institute on Aging Information Center, NIA, NIH, HHS
4. Alzheimer's Association
5. American Health Assistance Foundation
6. Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation
7. Geriatric Mental Health Foundation

= Indicates Federal Resources

Content last updated May 15, 2008.