Alzheimers

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia.  It is a progressive condition that attacks nerves, brain cells and neurotransmitters (chemicals that carry messages within the brain). 

The exact cause of Alzheimer's disease is not yet fully understoff, although a number of things are thought to increase your risk of developing the condition. 

These include:

• increasing age
• a family history of the condition
• untreated depression, although depression can als be one of the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease
• lifestyle factors and conditions associated with cardiovascular disease

Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer's disease 

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive condition, which means the symptoms develop gradually over many years and eventually become more severe. 

The first sign of Alzheimer's disease is usually minor memory problems, such as forgetting recent conversations or events, and forgetting the names of places and objects. As the condition develops, symptoms can become more severe, such as:

• confusion, disorientation and getting lost in familiar places
• difficulty planning or making decisions
• problems with speech and language
• problems moving around without assistance or performing sef-care tasks
• personality changes, such as becoming aggressive, demanding and suspicious of others
• hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not there) and delusions (believing things that are untrue)
• low mood or anxiety

Who is affected 

Alzheimer's disease is most common in people over the age of 65.

The Alzheimer’s Society estimates that Alzheimer’s disease affects 1 in 14 people over the age of 65; and 1 in 6 with people aged over 80.

Getting a diagnosis

As the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease progress slowly, it can be difficult to recognise their is a problem. 

An accurate and timely diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease can give you the best chance to prepare and plan for the future, as well as receive any treatment or support that may help. 

Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, medication is available that can slow down the development of the condition.

For more information about Alzheimer's disease, please visit www.nhs.co.uk/alzheimers-disease