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Alzheimer's
is a
progressive,
degenerative
disorder
that
affects
the brain.
It damages
the brain
cells
responsible
for intellectual
functioning.
These
functions
include
memory,
intelligence,
judgment,
and speech.
Over
the course
of years,
as the
disease
progresses,
individuals
loose
their
ability
to perform
the basic
tasks
that
are part
of everyday
life
and usually
end up
requiring
constant
care
and supervision.
It is
the most
common
cause
of dementia
in older
people.
It affects
the parts
of the
brain
that
control
thought,
memory,
and verbal
communication.
A small
percentage
of Alzhiemers
cases
occur
in people
in their
40s and
50s;
however,
most
people
with
Alzheimer’s
are over
65 years
of age.
How
common
is
Alzheimers?
Approximately
360,000
Americans
develop
Alzheimer's
disease
each
year.
Today,
it is
estimated
that
about
four
million
Americans
suffer
Alzheimer's
disease.
Over
the next
50 years,
nearly
four
times
as many
individuals
may have
Alzheimer's
disease
as growing
numbers
of individuals
become
elderly.
What
are
the
Symptoms
of
Alzheimers?
The symptoms
can be
frustrating
for a
person
with
the disease.
Dealing
with
these
symptoms
can also
be difficult
for family
members.
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