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Home + Health Topics with A + Alzheimer's disease
Alzheimer's disease
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most
general form of dementia among older people.
Dementia is a brain disorder that gravely
affects a person's ability to take up daily activities.
AD begins gradually. It initially involves
the parts of the brain that control thought, memory
and language. People with AD might have trouble remembering
things that happened lately or names of people
they know. Over time, symptoms get poorer. People may
not identify family members or have trouble speaking,
reading or writing. They may fail to remember
how to brush their teeth or comb their hair. Later on,
they can become anxious or belligerent, or wander away
from home. Eventually, they need total care. This can
cause immense stress for family members who must care
for them.
AD usually starts after age
60. The risk goes up as you get elder. Your
risk is also elevated if a family member has had the
disease.
No treatment can stop the disease. Yet, some drugs may help keep symptoms from getting worse for a limited time.
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