Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that gradually destroys memory and thinking skills, and eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. It is the most common cause of dementia, a general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. If you’re looking to understand what is Alzheimer’s disease, it’s crucial to know it’s more than just occasional forgetfulness; it’s a debilitating condition impacting millions worldwide.
Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia
Alzheimer’s disease is the leading cause of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of all dementia cases. Dementia itself is not a specific disease but rather a group of symptoms affecting cognitive abilities like memory, thinking, problem-solving, and language. These symptoms become severe enough to hinder a person’s daily life and independence. Understanding the relationship between what is Alzheimer’s disease and dementia is key: Alzheimer’s is a specific disease under the umbrella term of dementia.
For further reading, explore these resources: The Difference Between Dementia and Alzheimer’s, Understanding Dementia, and Advances in Alzheimer’s Research.
Alzheimer’s is Not a Normal Part of Aging
It’s a common misconception that memory loss is an inevitable part of aging. While some cognitive decline can occur naturally as we age, Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging. The primary risk factor for Alzheimer’s is increasing age, with most individuals diagnosed being 65 years and older. However, younger people can also develop Alzheimer’s. When it occurs in someone under 65, it’s referred to as younger-onset or early-onset Alzheimer’s. Individuals with younger-onset Alzheimer’s can be in any stage of the disease – early, middle, or late.
To learn more about this, refer to: Younger/Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease and Risk Factors and Causes of Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s Worsens Over Time
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive illness, meaning its symptoms gradually worsen over time. In the early stages, memory loss might be mild, but as the disease progresses to late-stage Alzheimer’s, individuals can lose the ability to communicate and interact with their surroundings. On average, a person with Alzheimer’s lives for four to eight years after diagnosis, but in some cases, individuals can live as long as 20 years, influenced by various factors.
For more detailed information, see: 10 Early Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s and Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease.
Alzheimer’s as a Continuum: Stages of the Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is understood as a continuum, progressing through different stages with increasing symptom severity.
Initially, an individual might be asymptomatic, meaning they have biological changes associated with Alzheimer’s in their brain, such as amyloid buildup, but exhibit no noticeable cognitive symptoms. These brain changes can begin up to two decades before any memory, thinking, or behavioral changes become apparent.
Following this, Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) can emerge. MCI represents an early stage of cognitive decline, often involving memory loss, where the individual can still manage most daily activities independently. While some with MCI might develop dementia due to Alzheimer’s, others may not. MCI can be considered an early phase of Alzheimer’s if hallmark brain changes are present. Learn more about Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI).
If these brain changes are indeed due to Alzheimer’s, the person may progress into dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease. This dementia stage is further categorized into mild, moderate, and severe, representing a gradual loss of independence. Explore the stages of Alzheimer’s dementia in detail.
Mild dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by symptoms that start to interfere with some daily activities.
Moderate dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease involves more pronounced symptoms that significantly interfere with many daily activities.
Severe dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease results in symptoms that disrupt most everyday activities, requiring substantial assistance.
Treatments for Alzheimer’s Disease
Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease. However, there are treatments available to manage symptoms and, in some cases, slow disease progression. Recent advancements have introduced treatments like donanemab (Kisunla™) and lecanemab (Leqembi®). These medications demonstrate that removing beta-amyloid, a key hallmark of Alzheimer’s, from the brain can reduce cognitive and functional decline in individuals with early Alzheimer’s. Other treatments can temporarily alleviate dementia symptoms and enhance the quality of life for both individuals living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers. Globally, extensive research efforts are ongoing to discover more effective treatments, delay the onset of Alzheimer’s, and ultimately prevent its development.
Learn more about available and emerging treatments: Alzheimer’s Treatments, The Horizon of Alzheimer’s Treatment, Alzheimer’s Prevention Strategies, and Participating in Clinical Trials.
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease
The most common early symptom of Alzheimer’s is difficulty remembering newly learned information. This is because Alzheimer’s typically affects the part of the brain associated with learning first.
Just like the rest of our body, our brains undergo changes as we age. Most people experience some slowing of thought and occasional memory lapses. However, significant memory loss, confusion, and substantial changes in cognitive function may indicate that brain cells are failing.
As Alzheimer’s progresses through the brain, it leads to increasingly severe symptoms, including:
- Disorientation
- Mood and behavior changes
- Deepening confusion about events, time, and place
- Unfounded suspicions about family, friends, and caregivers
- More severe memory loss and behavioral changes
- Difficulty speaking, swallowing, and walking in later stages
It’s important to note that individuals experiencing memory loss or other potential signs of Alzheimer’s may not always recognize they have a problem. Dementia symptoms might be more apparent to family members or friends. Anyone exhibiting dementia-like symptoms should seek medical advice promptly. Early diagnosis and intervention are becoming increasingly effective, and treatment options and support resources can significantly improve quality of life.
Helpful resources include ALZConnected, an online social networking community, and ALZNavigator™, a web tool for creating personalized action plans.
Take advantage of free online educational courses such as Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia and Know the 10 Signs: Early Detection Matters.
Help is Available
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, remember that you are not alone. The Alzheimer’s Association is a trusted resource providing reliable information, education, referrals, and support to millions affected by this disease.
- Call their 24/7 Helpline: 800.272.3900.
- Find your local Alzheimer’s Association chapter for community support.
- Visit ALZNavigator to develop customized action plans and connect with local support services.
Alzheimer’s is Not the Only Cause of Memory Loss
It’s important to remember that experiencing memory problems doesn’t automatically mean someone has Alzheimer’s. Memory loss can stem from various causes. If you or someone you know is experiencing dementia symptoms, it’s essential to consult a doctor to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate guidance.
Learn More About Diagnosing Memory Problems.
Alzheimer’s and the Brain: Microscopic Changes
Microscopic changes in the brain begin years, even decades, before the first noticeable signs of memory loss associated with what is Alzheimer’s disease.
The human brain is composed of approximately 100 billion nerve cells, called neurons. Each neuron connects with numerous others, forming intricate communication networks. Groups of these nerve cells are specialized for particular tasks, such as thinking, learning, remembering, and sensory functions like seeing, hearing, and smelling.
To function effectively, brain cells operate like miniature factories. They receive supplies, generate energy, manufacture equipment, and dispose of waste. They also process and store information and communicate with other cells. Maintaining these complex operations requires coordination and substantial amounts of fuel and oxygen.
Scientists believe that Alzheimer’s disease disrupts the normal functioning of these cellular “factories.” While the exact starting point of this disruption is still unclear, breakdowns in one system lead to problems in other areas, similar to a real factory. As damage spreads, brain cells lose their ability to perform their jobs and eventually die, leading to irreversible changes in the brain structure and function.
The Role of Plaques and Tangles in Alzheimer’s
Two abnormal structures, called plaques and tangles, are considered prime suspects in damaging and killing nerve cells in Alzheimer’s disease.
- Plaques are deposits of a protein fragment called beta-amyloid that accumulate in the spaces between nerve cells.
- Tangles are twisted fibers of another protein called tau that build up inside nerve cells.
Although autopsy studies reveal that most people develop some plaques and tangles as they age, individuals with Alzheimer’s tend to develop significantly more, following a predictable pattern. This pattern typically begins in brain areas crucial for memory before spreading to other regions.
Scientists are still working to fully understand the precise role of plaques and tangles in Alzheimer’s disease. However, most experts believe that they play a critical role in blocking communication between nerve cells and disrupting essential processes needed for cell survival.
It is the destruction and death of nerve cells that ultimately leads to memory failure, personality changes, difficulties in performing daily activities, and the other characteristic symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
Explore more about brain changes in Alzheimer’s with this Brain Tour.
Research and Progress in Alzheimer’s Disease
The journey to understanding what is Alzheimer’s disease began in 1906 when German physician Dr. Alois Alzheimer first described “a peculiar disease” characterized by profound memory loss and specific microscopic brain changes.
Today, Alzheimer’s disease is at the forefront of biomedical research. Researchers are actively working to unravel every aspect of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Remarkable progress has been made in understanding how Alzheimer’s affects the brain, offering hope for developing new and effective treatments. Numerous potential treatment approaches are currently being investigated worldwide.
Stay updated on the latest advancements in Alzheimer’s and dementia care and research by signing up for their weekly E-News.
Further reading on advancements: Alzheimer’s Research and Progress.
