Alzheimer’s Disease is a brain disorder that affects parts of the brain that control memories, thoughts and language. It is the most common form of dementia in aging populations. The disease typically begins after age 60, and almost half of people over the age of 85 have this disorder.

Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease begin with forgetfulness and can sometimes be overlooked as regular symptoms of aging. People with early stages of the disease may forget names of familiar people and things, as well as recent events. As the disease progresses, those suffering from the disease may begin to forget how to do simple everyday tasks like dressing themselves or taking showers. They have trouble thinking clearly and sometimes lose abilities to speak, read or write. Eventually, Alzheimer’s victims deteriorate to the point where they require constant care.

The causes of Alzheimer’s Disease are still not known, but physical manifestations in the brain include the formation of abnormal clumps called amyloid plaques, and tangled groups of fibers called neurofibrillary tangles. In the search for causes, researchers are studying genetics factors as well as education, diet and environmental factors. Some have found that risk factors for heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke and high cholesterol may lead to development of Alzheimer’s Disease.

Alzheimer’s Disease can only be definitely diagnosed when plagues and tangles are found in the brains of patients. However, these can only be seen during postmortem autopsies, and thus, diagnosis of the disease in the living is actually only probable diagnosis. Doctors make probable diagnoses based on brain scans, memory tests and various medical tests, along with questions regarding daily functioning. Sometimes it is found that other problems, like depression, brain tumors or blood vessel diseases are actually causing Alzheimer’s Disease-type symptoms instead of the brain disorder itself.

There is no treatment that can stop the effects of Alzheimer’s disease, but ongoing research in aging populations is opening a lot of doors to possible ways of prevention and treatment. There are currently several drugs that can help prevent or slow a worsening of symptoms if administered during early stages of the disease. Some of these include donepezil, galantamine and tacrine. Researches are also investigating effects of Vitamin E and ginkgo biloba on slowing or preventing onset of dementia.

The average Alzheimer’s patient lives eight to ten years after initial diagnosis of the disorder. It is typically the family members who care for Alzheimer’s sufferers once the disease progresses beyond the stage where the patient can care for him or herself. There are many support groups that offer financial and emotional support for caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients. Among these include the Alzheimer’s Association, based in Chicago, Illinois. As advances in medical care continue and the growing number of elderly people in the world continues to rise, research in Alzheimer’s Disease prevention and treatment continues to be an ever-growing and well-financed field of study.