Dementia

Alzheimer's causes dementia, a symptom characterized by a decrease in mental capacity. Reason and memory become less adroit.

Disease

Alzheimer's disease is a terminal, progressive disease, resulting from the destruction of nerve cells in the brain.

Early symptoms

Early on, symptoms are not always apparent. The disease advances slowly and at first may be indistinguishable from normal slowing of mental capacity from aging. The inability to commit new facts to memory is one symptom.

Other Signs and Symptoms

Memory loss, confusion, difficulty with judgments or problem solving, the inability to complete commonplace tasks like dialing a phone, and the inability to remember loved ones' names or faces are symptoms of Alzheimer's. As it progresses, sufferers become less able to function independently. Sufferers may become confused, distraught or anxious, and sometimes inconsolable. Misplacing objects and getting lost are also symptoms of Alzheimer's. Eventually sufferers may become withdrawn, depressed and incontinent.

Diagnosis

Not all forgetful behaviors indicate Alzheimer's. When forgetfulness is normal and routine tasks become insurmountable, Alzheimer's may be the cause. There is no test to diagnose Alzheimer's, but doctors use patient history, clinical observation and PET and CAT scans to make their diagnoses by ruling out other diagnoses.

Prevention

Mental stimulation when younger, such as social interaction, games of chess, painting or mind puzzles, and a healthy physical lifestyle may stave off Alzheimer's disease.

Source:

Web MD: Alzheimer's Disease Guide

Help Guide: Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's Association: Know the Ten Signs

More Information:

Alzheimer's Association