Alzheimer’s disease is the most common of the dementia in the elderly. The disease slowly destroys the brain tissue which impairs the ability to complete things such as everyday tasks. The symptoms and effects of Alzheimer’s disease usually start after the age of 60. The symptoms of Alzheimer’s begins with forgetting simple things, such as how to use the toaster, or how to brush their teeth. With time the condition steadily gets worse, they may begin forgetting their friends and family, even their own names. They often develop anxiety and aggression.
There are two types of Alzheimers, Familial and Sporadic. Familial is the most rare, the symptoms can appear in a person between 40s and 50s, and is caused by a genetic mutation. Sporadic Alzheimer’s is responsible for 90% of cases, and takes around 20 years to develop. This form is generally onset after the age of 60.
The exact causes of Alzheimer’s is still unknown, but there are many proven theories about what contributes to the disease. Autopsies of Alzheimer’s sufferers have shown a build up of proteins in the brain. This is shown in two ways, plaques and tangles. Plaques are the deposits of a protein called beta-amyloid in the space between nerve cells, whereas tangles are deposits of the protein tau inside the nerve cells.
There is no known cure for Alzheimer’s, however there is a drug on the market that can boost the efficiency of damaged neurons. There are plenty of treatments available for the secondary symptoms of Alzheimer’s such as anxiety and depression. There are drugs and treatments available and in development that could slow down and reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. It is suggested that sufferers and their families go to support group and therapy to help cope with the disease.