Alzheimer's Disease Overview

Alzheimer's Disease is a chronic brain disease that leads to memory loss, thinking and behavioral problems. It's the most common type of dementia.

The neurons in the brain lose their ability to communicate with each other and eventually die. This is why Alzheimer's is a progressive disorder, slowly getting worse over time.

Beta-amyloid plaques are clumps of protein that build up outside brain cells. This disrupts communication and makes it more difficult for neurons to function.

Beta-amyloid plaques normally get absorbed with the help of the Amyloid Precursor Protein (APP). However, in Alzheimer's, the beta-amyloid doesn't get absorbed properly, forming plaques outside neurons.

Alzheimer's Disease is the 5th leading cause of death among adults 65 and older. It affects 6.2 million people in the United States, and this number is expected to rise to 14 million by 2060.

Women are more likely to develop Alzheimer's than men. Hispanics and African Americans have a higher risk compared to other racial groups.

Family history is a risk factor for Alzheimer's, meaning it can be inherited. Age also increases the risk, as the aging process can lead to changes in the brain that make it more susceptible.

Other risk factors for Alzheimer's include: Diabetes, Heart Disease, and unhealthy lifestyle choices like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

A protein clump that accumulates outside of neurons, hindering communication and causing neuron death.

Twisted strands of a protein called tau that form inside neurons, disrupting their function and contributing to cell death.

The primary function of neurons is to receive and transmit signals through the nervous system, enabling communication and information processing.

A condition characterized by a progressive decline in cognitive function, including memory, thinking, and language, often caused by the formation of beta-amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles.

Alzheimer's Disease can manifest in individuals as early as 30 years old, leading to cognitive impairment and eventual dementia.

The ability to recall past events and experiences, finding your way around, and locating objects.

A brain region essential for navigation, spatial awareness, and memory formation.

The brain's emotional hub, processing and responding to feelings, and influencing behavior.

The initial stage of Alzheimer's disease without noticeable symptoms.

The characteristic changes in the brain that mark the progression of Alzheimer's disease, including plaques and tangles that disrupt normal brain function.

A stage of Alzheimer's disease where memory changes are subtle and do not affect daily activities. People may forget recent events, have trouble concentrating, or feel confused about their surroundings.

The earliest stage of Alzheimer's disease, where memory problems become noticeable to others.

Experiences of 'brain fog,' difficulty recalling new information or recent events, and forgetting important tasks or appointments. These symptoms are common in both MCI and early-stage Alzheimer's.

Trouble remembering new information, such as the names of people they just met, conversations they had recently, or new material they have learned.

Changes in cognitive abilities, including memory, thinking, speaking, and movement, that are characteristic of Alzheimer's disease.

Donepezil, Rivastigmine, and Galantamine are medications that help break down acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in memory and learning. They are commonly used to treat Alzheimer's Disease.

Cholinesterase inhibitors can cause gastrointestinal upset, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and muscle spasms.

Donepezil is a cholinesterase inhibitor that should always be taken with food.

To help patients eat, offer small, healthy, and familiar foods that are easy to swallow. Avoid overwhelming choices and encourage them to eat with someone.

Hygienic care includes bathing, grooming, mouth care, incontinence management, and dressing. Staying hydrated means providing access to fluids and considering the patient's thirst. Nourishment involves addressing any eating challenges like loss of appetite or swallowing difficulties.

In Alzheimer's Disease, Beta-amyloid does not get absorbed properly, forming plaques outside neurons. This disrupts neuronal communication, affecting brain function.

Cognitive assessment, mental evaluation, diagnostic imaging, and biomarkers analysis are used to diagnose Alzheimer's.

Patients with Alzheimer's might experience wandering episodes triggered by crowded or stressful environments, the need to fulfill unmet needs, or disruptions in their routine.

It's important to communicate with Alzheimer's patients, even if they struggle to express themselves. Adapt your communication style to their abilities and use non-verbal cues.

The medication used in Alzheimer's treatment aims to control symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.