|
| |
| |
| Other topics: Brain and Nerves |
|
|
|
| |
|
Keywords
Dementia, Alzheimer's disease, memory loss, ambulatory dementia, forgetfulness,
|
|
 |
Overview *
|
|
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia among older people. Dementia is a brain disorder that seriously affects a person's ability to carry out daily activities.
AD begins slowly. It first involves the parts of the brain that control thought, memory and language. People with AD may have trouble remembering things that happened recently or names of people they know. Over time, symptoms get worse. People may not recognize family members or have trouble speaking, reading or writing. They may forget how to brush their teeth or comb their hair. Later on, they may become anxious or aggressive, or wander away from home. Eventually, they need total care. This can cause great stress for family members who must care for them.
AD usually begins after age 60. The risk goes up as you get older. Your risk is also higher if a family member has had the disease.
No treatment can stop the disease. However, some drugs may help keep symptoms from getting worse for a limited time.
|
| |
| |
Multimedia
|
|
This family education program helps with understanding dementia and Alzheimer's disease. It discusses the stages of dementia, common behaviors of patients with dementia, and guidelines to help people interact with a loved one who has dementia.
|
|
 |
|
|
|
This button allows you to read and print an illustrated handout. |
This button starts a multimedia program with interactive questions. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
This button starts an interactive quiz.
|
This button plays a self-running presentation.
|
|
|
Last reviewed: 12/1/2008 |
|