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Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia in the UK.

Dementia is a syndrome (a group of related symptoms) associated with an ongoing decline of brain functioning. It can affect memory, thinking skills and other mental abilities.

The exact cause of Alzheimer's disease is not yet fully understood, although a number of things are thought to increase your risk of developing the condition.

These include:

  • increasing age
  • a family history of the condition
  • untreated depression, although depression can also be one of the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease
  • lifestyle factors and conditions associated with cardiovascular disease

Read more about the causes of Alzheimer's disease.

Coronavirus advice

Get advice about coronavirus and dementia:

  • Alzheimer's Society: Coronavirus information for people affected by dementia
  • Dementia UK: Coronavirus questions and answers

Signs and symptoms of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive condition, which means the symptoms develop gradually over many years and eventually become more severe. It affects multiple brain functions.

The first sign of Alzheimer's disease is usually minor memory problems.

For example, this could be forgetting about recent conversations or events, and forgetting the names of places and objects.

As the condition develops, memory problems become more severe and further symptoms can develop, such as:

  • confusion, disorientation and getting lost in familiar places
  • difficulty planning or making decisions
  • problems with speech and language
  • problems moving around without assistance or performing self-care tasks
  • personality changes, such as becoming aggressive, demanding and suspicious of others
  • hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not there) and delusions (believing things that are untrue)
  • low mood or anxiety

Read more about the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.

Who is affected?

Alzheimer's disease is most common in people over the age of 65.

The risk of Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia increases with age, affecting an estimated 1 in 14 people over the age of 65 and 1 in every 6 people over the age of 80.

But around 1 in every 20 cases of Alzheimer's disease affects people aged 40 to 65. This is called early- or young-onset Alzheimer's disease.

Getting a diagnosis

As the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease progress slowly, it can be difficult to recognise that there's a problem. Many people feel that memory problems are simply a part of getting older.

Also, the disease process itself may (but not always) prevent people recognising changes in their memory. But Alzheimer's disease is not a "normal" part of the ageing process.

An accurate and timely diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease can give you the best chance to prepare and plan for the future, as well as receive any treatment or support that may help.

If you're worried about your memory or think you may have dementia, it's a good idea to see your GP.

If possible, someone who knows you well should be with you as they can help describe any changes or problems they have noticed.

If you're worried about someone else, encourage them to make an appointment and perhaps suggest that you go along with them.

There's no single test that can be used to diagnose Alzheimer's disease. And it's important to remember that memory problems do not necessarily mean you have Alzheimer's disease.

Your GP will ask questions about any problems you're experiencing and may do some tests to rule out other conditions.

If Alzheimer's disease is suspected, you may be referred to a specialist service to:

  • assess your symptoms in more detail
  • organise further testing, such as brain scans if necessary
  • create a treatment and care plan

Read more about diagnosing Alzheimer's disease.

How Alzheimer's disease is treated

There's currently no cure for Alzheimer's disease, but medicines are available that can help relieve some of the symptoms.

Various other types of support are also available to help people with Alzheimer's live as independently as possible, such as making changes to your home environment so it's easier to move around and remember daily tasks.

Psychological treatments such as cognitive stimulation therapy may also be offered to help support your memory, problem solving skills and language ability.

Read more about treating Alzheimer's disease.

Outlook

People with Alzheimer's disease can live for several years after they start to develop symptoms. But this can vary considerably from person to person.

Alzheimer's disease is a life-limiting illness, although many people diagnosed with the condition will die from another cause.

As Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological condition, it can cause problems with swallowing.

This can lead to aspiration (food being inhaled into the lungs), which can cause frequent chest infections.

It's also common for people with Alzheimer's disease to eventually have difficulty eating and have a reduced appetite.

There's increasing awareness that people with Alzheimer's disease need palliative care.

This includes support for families, as well as the person with Alzheimer's.

Can Alzheimer's disease be prevented?

As the exact cause of Alzheimer's disease is not clear, there's no known way to prevent the condition.

But there are things you can do that may reduce your risk or delay the onset of dementia, such as:

  • stopping smoking and cutting down on alcohol
  • eating a healthy, balanced diet and maintaining a healthy weight
  • staying physically fit and mentally active

These measures have other health benefits, such as lowering your risk of cardiovascular disease and improving your overall mental health.

Read more about preventing Alzheimer's disease.

Dementia research

There are dozens of dementia research projects going on around the world, many of which are based in the UK.

If you have a diagnosis of dementia or are worried about memory problems, you can help scientists better understand the disease by taking part in research.

If you're a carer for someone with dementia, you can also take part in research.

You can sign up to take part in trials on the NHS Join Dementia Research website.

More information

Dementia can affect all aspects of a person's life, as well as their family's.

If you have been diagnosed with dementia, or you're caring for someone with the condition, remember that advice and support is available to help you live well.

Read more about:

Staying independent with dementia

Living well with dementia

Communicating with people with dementia

Looking after someone with dementia

Coping with dementia behaviour changes

Sources of help and support

Dementia, social services and the NHS

Social care and support guide

If you:

  • need help with day-to-day living because of illness or disability
  • care for someone regularly because they're ill, elderly or disabled - including family members

Our guide to care and support explains your options and where you can get support.

HealthUnlocked contains information from NHS Digital, licensed under the current version of the Open Government Licence

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33,172 public posts

New blood test shows great promise in the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease.

impairment, according to a large international study published today in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) and simultaneously presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference. https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/article/new-blood-test-shows-great-promise-diagnosis-alzheimers-disease
impairment, according to a large international study published today in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) and simultaneously presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference. https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/article/new-blood-test-shows-great-promise-diagnosis-alzheimers-disease
2greys
in British Lung Foundation

Another positive Amyloid plaque clearing trial in alzheimer- PHASE 2

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lillys-donanemab-slows-clinical-decline-of-alzheimers-disease-in-positive-phase-2-trial-301204830.html
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lillys-donanemab-slows-clinical-decline-of-alzheimers-disease-in-positive-phase-2-trial-301204830.html
Parkinsonjisung
in Cure Parkinson's

Alzheimer’s Disease Linked to Gut Bacteria

In a new study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, scientists have confirmed the link between gut microbiota and Alzheimer’s disease https://journal.medizzy.com/alzheimers-disease-linked-to-gut-bacteria/
In a new study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, scientists have confirmed the link between gut microbiota and Alzheimer’s disease https://journal.medizzy.com/alzheimers-disease-linked-to-gut-bacteria/
JayPwP
in Cure Parkinson's
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What is type-3 Diabetes ? The link between Insulin resistance and Alzheimer's disease.

An intersting article in how prolonged insulin resistance could lead to alzheimer's disease. https://health.usnews.com/conditions/diabetes/articles/type-3-diabetes-the-link-between-insulin-resistance-and-alzheimers-disease
An intersting article in how prolonged insulin resistance could lead to alzheimer's disease. https://health.usnews.com/conditions/diabetes/articles/type-3-diabetes-the-link-between-insulin-resistance-and-alzheimers-disease
namahaAdministrator
in Diabetes India

Another good news for mice!

Boosting gut microbes helps protect mice against Alzheimer’s disease https://www.newscientist.com/article/2250188-boosting-gut-microbes-helps-protect-mice-against-alzheimers-disease/
Boosting gut microbes helps protect mice against Alzheimer’s disease https://www.newscientist.com/article/2250188-boosting-gut-microbes-helps-protect-mice-against-alzheimers-disease/
JayPwP
in Cure Parkinson's

Another French Solution to Parkinson’s Disease (Amyloid Proteins)

A chimeric peptide unique in the world… [i]« AmyP53 is capable of blocking the formation of neurotoxic structures (oligomers of amyloid proteins) responsible for these two neurodegenerative diseases (new therapeutic target, the only molecule in the world capable of acting on Alzheimer's and Parkinson's
A chimeric peptide unique in the world… [i]« AmyP53 is capable of blocking the formation of neurotoxic structures (oligomers of amyloid proteins) responsible for these two neurodegenerative diseases (new therapeutic target, the only molecule in the world capable of acting on Alzheimer's and Parkinson's
Resano
in Cure Parkinson's

Biodegradable Microcapsules Deliver Nerve Growth Factor to Guide Neuronal Development

"Many neurodegenerative conditions that can lead to severe disorders are associated with depleted levels of growth factors in the brain – neuropeptides that help neurons grow, proliferate and survive. Some clinical studies of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases have shown that delivering these growth
"Many neurodegenerative conditions that can lead to severe disorders are associated with depleted levels of growth factors in the brain – neuropeptides that help neurons grow, proliferate and survive. Some clinical studies of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases have shown that delivering these growth
jimcaster
in Cure Parkinson's

Is there a PD personality type?

After reading the post on “why me” I wonder if one is a Parkinson’s type of personality or an Alzheimer’s type. A bit like the old type a or b for personality types cancer. This is entirely made up and has no scientific basis. Just an idea. Feel free to shoot it down🤣. What type are you? A Parkinson
After reading the post on “why me” I wonder if one is a Parkinson’s type of personality or an Alzheimer’s type. A bit like the old type a or b for personality types cancer. This is entirely made up and has no scientific basis. Just an idea. Feel free to shoot it down🤣. What type are you? A Parkinson
LAJ12345
in Cure Parkinson's

Alzheimer's Disease is called Type-3 Diabetes- Power foods for the brain

“Type 3 diabetes” is a term that has been proposed to describe the hypothesis that Alzheimer's Disease, which is a major cause/other forms of Dementia. It is triggered by a type of insulin resistance and insulin-like growth factor dysfunction that occurs specifically in the brain. Here is a video
“Type 3 diabetes” is a term that has been proposed to describe the hypothesis that Alzheimer's Disease, which is a major cause/other forms of Dementia. It is triggered by a type of insulin resistance and insulin-like growth factor dysfunction that occurs specifically in the brain. Here is a video
namahaAdministrator
in Diabetes India

Evidence vs. Belief in Parkinsons and Alzheimers

Evidence: Proteins lose their function when aggregate. Belief: Proteins become toxic when aggregate. Treatment based on evidence? Replace normal proteins. Based on belief? Remove aggregated proteins https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7220234/
Evidence: Proteins lose their function when aggregate. Belief: Proteins become toxic when aggregate. Treatment based on evidence? Replace normal proteins. Based on belief? Remove aggregated proteins https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7220234/
Farooqji
in Cure Parkinson's

Same Mistake in Parkinson's Research as in Alzheimer's Research?

https://theconversation.com/alzheimers-disease-have-we-got-the-cause-all-wrong-114259
https://theconversation.com/alzheimers-disease-have-we-got-the-cause-all-wrong-114259
jimcaster
in Cure Parkinson's

OK, it's a Mouse Study, But It's Encouraging...

It turns out that chronic ISR activation and resulting blockage of cellular protein production may play a role in a surprisingly wide array of neurological conditions. Below is a partial list of these conditions, based on a recent review by Walter and colleague Mauro Costa-Mattioli of Baylor College
It turns out that chronic ISR activation and resulting blockage of cellular protein production may play a role in a surprisingly wide array of neurological conditions. Below is a partial list of these conditions, based on a recent review by Walter and colleague Mauro Costa-Mattioli of Baylor College
jimcaster
in Cure Parkinson's

Attitude and 'spark': The secret to living well into your 90s

https://www.stuff.co.nz/life-style/well-good/300170579/attitude-and-spark-the-secret-to-living-well-into-your-90s?cid=app-iPad “Alzheimer’s surprise The study of participants' brains has revealed that 40 per cent of people who die without dementia have enough Alzheimer’s pathology in their head that
https://www.stuff.co.nz/life-style/well-good/300170579/attitude-and-spark-the-secret-to-living-well-into-your-90s?cid=app-iPad “Alzheimer’s surprise The study of participants' brains has revealed that 40 per cent of people who die without dementia have enough Alzheimer’s pathology in their head that
LAJ12345
in Cure Parkinson's

Medication concerns

I have been on the max dose of pramipexole for 15 yrs . I am also taking proclorperazine and oxybutynin all of which (I have read) can contribute to early onset Alzheimer’s Does anyone have any experience of this or had had success with changing rls and/or musculoskeletal prescriptions Thanks
I have been on the max dose of pramipexole for 15 yrs . I am also taking proclorperazine and oxybutynin all of which (I have read) can contribute to early onset Alzheimer’s Does anyone have any experience of this or had had success with changing rls and/or musculoskeletal prescriptions Thanks
Robynasmith
in Restless Legs Syndrome

Significant link found between air pollution and neurological disorders.

Air pollution was significantly associated with an increased risk of hospital admissions for several neurological disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and other dementias, in a long-term study of more than 63 million older U.S. adults, led by researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan
Air pollution was significantly associated with an increased risk of hospital admissions for several neurological disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and other dementias, in a long-term study of more than 63 million older U.S. adults, led by researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan
2greys
in British Lung Foundation

Keto diet may reduce Alzheimer's risk by altering gut fungi

"Scientists have found associations between fungi living in the gut and mild cognitive impairment, which can lead to Alzheimer’s disease" Maybe it applies to Parkinson's
"Scientists have found associations between fungi living in the gut and mild cognitive impairment, which can lead to Alzheimer’s disease" Maybe it applies to Parkinson's
JayPwP
in Cure Parkinson's

Annovis Bio's Phase 2a trial of Posiphen (ANVS401) is now recruiting PwPs (USA)

Annovis is attempting to lessen α-synuclein-induced pathogenesis by reducing the synthesis of the α-synuclein protein. PNT article: First Patients Dosed in Clinical Trial Investigating ANVS401 as Treatment for Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s https://parkinsonsnewstoday.com/2020/09/03/first-patients-dosed-clinical-trial-anvs401
Annovis is attempting to lessen α-synuclein-induced pathogenesis by reducing the synthesis of the α-synuclein protein. PNT article: First Patients Dosed in Clinical Trial Investigating ANVS401 as Treatment for Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s https://parkinsonsnewstoday.com/2020/09/03/first-patients-dosed-clinical-trial-anvs401
jeffreyn
in Cure Parkinson's

Discriminative Accuracy of Plasma Phospho-tau217 for Alzheimer Disease vs Other Neurodegenerative Disorders | Dementia , Cognitive Impairm

Discriminative Accuracy of Plasma Phospho-tau217 for Alzheimer Disease vs Other Neurodegenerative Disorders | Dementia and Cognitive Impairment. jama. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2768841?guestAccessKey=42d098cb-7eca-4a1c-9d7b-9951b104b003&utm_source=For_The_Media&utm_medium=referral
Discriminative Accuracy of Plasma Phospho-tau217 for Alzheimer Disease vs Other Neurodegenerative Disorders | Dementia and Cognitive Impairment. jama. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2768841?guestAccessKey=42d098cb-7eca-4a1c-9d7b-9951b104b003&utm_source=For_The_Media&utm_medium=referral
aspergerian13
in Cure Parkinson's

Study shows asthma drug salbutamol’s potential as Alzheimer’s treatment.

A new study reveals that the common asthma drug salbutamol may offer potential as a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, affecting 47 million people worldwide and its prevalence is expected to triple to more than 130 million cases by 2050. No effective
A new study reveals that the common asthma drug salbutamol may offer potential as a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, affecting 47 million people worldwide and its prevalence is expected to triple to more than 130 million cases by 2050. No effective
2greys
in British Lung Foundation

Mice ‘cured’ of Parkinson’s in accidental scientific discovery

Not sure if this has been posted before - https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/parkinsons-disease-cure-treatment-tremor-093219804.html Mice were “cured” of Parkinson’s disease after a scientific study took an unexpected turn. Scientists from the University of California (UC) in San Diego set out to better
Not sure if this has been posted before - https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/parkinsons-disease-cure-treatment-tremor-093219804.html Mice were “cured” of Parkinson’s disease after a scientific study took an unexpected turn. Scientists from the University of California (UC) in San Diego set out to better
John_morris71
in Cure Parkinson's
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