What Is Alzheimer's Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is an illness of the brain. It causes large numbers of nerve cells in the brain to die. This affects your ability to remember things and think clearly. Doctors don’t know what causes the disease. They do know that it usually begins after age 60, and nearly half of people age 85 and older may have Alzheimer’s disease. However, it is not a normal part of aging.
The disease often starts slowly. In fact, some people don’t know they have Alzheimer’s disease, blaming their forgetfulness on old age. Over time, memory problems get much worse as the disease progresses.
People with Alzheimer’s disease lose the ability to drive a car, cook a meal, or even read a newspaper. They may get lost easily and find even simple things confusing. Some people become worried, angry, or violent. At some point, people with Alzheimer’s disease may need someone to take care of all their needs (feeding, bathing, etc.) at home with a caregiver or in a nursing home.
-Provided by the National Institute on Aging
If your loved one has a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia disorder, we can help. Please call us today at (561) 683-2700 or email us here.