About Alzheimer’s Disease

Dementia is a group of brain disorders resulting in memory loss, difficulty in communicating, concentrating and making decisions. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia where brain cells degenerate, causing a steady decline in memory and mental function.

Alzheimer’s disease symptoms

Symptoms of dementia, like memory loss, can be related to normal aging or linked to other medical conditions, it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis.

• Persisting and worsening memory loss
• Difficulty thinking and concentrating
• Difficulty making decisions, responding appropriately to everyday situations
• Familiar or routine activities become difficult to remember or complete
• Changes in personality and behavior
• Depression
• Mood swings, irritability and loss of inhibitions
• Changes in sleep habits
• Delusions

How we diagnose Alzheimer’s

Since there currently is not a single test to diagnose Alzheimer’s, a careful medical evaluation is needed. During this time, we will also test for other conditions that may cause dementia like symptoms like depression, thyroid problem or a vitamin B12 deficiency among other conditions.

This evaluation will include:

• Review of your medical history
• Physical exam
• Neurological testing
• Psychiatric evaluation
• Cognitive and neuropsychological tests
• Genetic testing
• Laboratory testing
• Brain imaging

Alzheimer’s treatment

Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s yet. There are new treatments available to slow the progression of the symptoms.

Treating Alzheimer’s includes medication and innovative therapies through clinical trials.

Causes and risks of Alzheimer’s

Researchers believe, Alzheimer’s diseases is caused by a combination of genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors.

Alzheimer’s risk factors include:

• Age – risk increases greatly after the age of 65. Early-onset Alzheimer’s symptoms can begin in the 30s.
• First-degree relatives with the disease
• Down syndrome
• Being a female
• Mild cognitive impairment
• Severe head trauma
• Lifestyle/lack of exercise
• Obesity
• High blood pressure or high cholesterol
• Poorly controlled type 2 diabetes
• Lack of education and social activities

Resources for Alzheimer’s

It takes a team of family members, caregivers and health care professionals to deliver the best care.
We provide educational and supportive resources to help support you.

View available resources