Alzheimer's Disease

From Senior Planet Resource Exchange

What is Alzheimer's Disease?
Is is a progressive, irreversible brain disorder whose incidence rises sharply with advancing age. Symptoms of the disease include memory loss, confusion, impaired judgement, personality changes, and loss of language skills. As the disease progresses, there is an ever-growing dependence on others to perform even the most routine tasks, such as bathing and dressing. The average length of the illness is seven years, but it can last as long as twenty years or more. There is no cure. Alzheimer's always ends in death.

What Causes Alzheimer's Disease?
Research indicates that the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease are the result of the death of nerve cells in distinct areas of the brain. However, scientists do not know what causes the loss of those cells. Genetic and environmental factors are also being investigated for the roles they might play in causing the disease.

How Widespread Is Alzheimer's Disease?
Alzheimer's is the seventh leading cause of death among the elderly in the U.S., claiming almost 66,000 lives annually. The disease affects an estimated 4.5 million individuals. Most cases occur after age 65; however, some individuals in their 30's, 40's and 50's can be affected. It affects all segments of the population and is not restricted to any one race, gender or socioeconomic class.

For more information on Alzheimer's Disease visit these Websites:
American Health Assistance Foundation
Alzheimer's Association

Source of Above Information: Alzheimer's Disease Research-Flyer
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