Alzheimer's disease
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive condition that affects the brain, resulting in impaired memory, thinking and behaviour. It is the most common form of dementia, which is the term used to describe a large group of illnesses that cause gradual decline in a person's functioning.
As brain cells shrink or disappear, abnormal material builds up as "tangles" in the centre of the brain cells. Dense spots or "plaques" also build up outside the brain cells. These changes affect the vital connections between cells, disrupting messages within the brain. As areas of the brain become affected in this way, the functions or abilities controlled by that area, such as information recall, become limited or are lost.
Incidence
Alzheimer's disease is most common in people over the age of 65, although it can affect people of any age. It is the most common form of dementia and accounts for between 50% and 70% of all cases.
Treatment
Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease. However some medications and alternative treatments have been found to relieve some of the symptoms, for some people, for a period of time. Up to date information is available from Alzheimer's Australia Vic.
What is the outlook?
The rate at which Alzheimer's disease progresses is very different for each person but the condition gradually becomes worse over time. A person may live from three to 20 years, but the disease does lead eventually to complete dependence and finally to death, usually from complications associated with the condition.
More information
BrainLink is a community based care and education organisation focusing on the impact of acquired brain disorders.
Brain Link Fact Sheet: Understanding Alzheimer's disease
The above information is a short summary of parts of this fact sheet.
It is a peak body for people with dementia and their families and carers.
