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What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?

In Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, problems with memory, judgment, and thought processes make it hard for a person to work and take part in day-to-day family and social life. Changes in mood and personality also may occur. These changes can result in loss of self-control and other problems.

Some 2 to 4 million persons have dementia associated with aging. Of these individuals, as many as two-thirds have Alzheimer’s disease.

Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease at this time, it may be possible to relieve some of the symptoms, such as wandering and incontinence.

The earlier the diagnosis, the more likely your symptoms will respond to treatment. Talk to your doctor as soon as possible if you think you or a family member may have signs of Alzheimer’s disease.

Research is under way to find better ways to treat Alzheimer’s disease. Ask your doctor if there are any new developments that might help you.

Who Is Affected?

The chances of getting Alzheimer’s disease increase with age. It usually occurs after age 65. Most people are not affected even at advanced ages. There are only two definite factors that increase the risk for Alzheimer’s disease: a family history of dementia and Down syndrome.
Family History of Dementia

Some forms of Alzheimer’s disease are inherited. If Alzheimer’s disease has occurred in your family members, other members are more likely to develop it. Discuss any family history of dementia with your family doctor.

Use it, don’t lose it! These tips will help you to keep your wits about you.
One of the greatest fears most people have when growing older is the fear of developing Alzheimer’s disease or some other type of dementia. This fear is so great that many develop great anxiety every time they experience a bout of forgetfulness. There have been many studies of those conditions that affect memory and most have shown that forgetfulness is not a guarantee that Alzheimer’s is around the corner. They have also shown that following these tips can help to preserve mental fitness at normal levels.

These suggestions can help to reduce mental decline:

* Maintain your social contacts. Studies suggest that people with active lives are better protected against cognitive decline.
* Stay physically active. A recent study showed that older women who started a walking program showed lower levels of mental decline than sedentary women when tested six to eight years later.

http://seniorhealth.about.com for more great articles.