Alzheimers disease is a growing problem all over the world.

Alzheimers is a neurodegenerative disease, and is the most common form of dementia that gradually destroys brain cells. It is one of the most frightening disorders in the way in which it affects the memory and mental functioning.

Our ability to remember clearly the significant events of our lives are most important for our good health and wellbeing.

Should the memory be clouded or not capable of recall then our connection to the past is lost and the opportunity to plan for the future is diminished.

It is often thought that Alzheimers and dementia are one and the same, but this isn't true. Alzheimer's disease is believed to cause 50-60% of all dementias.

Dementia is not a disease itself. It's a group of symptoms that are caused by various diseases or conditions.

The most common form of dementia among older people is Alzheimer's disease. About 4.5 million Americans suffer from this condition, which usually begins after age 60.

There are basically two types of Alzheimers disease: 

• Familial Alzheimers, and 
• Sporadic Alzhiemers, often called late-onset Alzheimers. 

Recently researchers have found that two nervous diseases, which were originally incorrectly diagnosed as Alzheimer's, are emerging as major causes of dementia: Lewy body disease and Pick's disease. 

Mental decline in this disease shows up first as loss of memory function. Next to be affected are emotions and inhibitions. As brain cells begin to die this causes a declining ability to cope with everyday life. This is an extremely distressing time for the family and seeking correct diagnosis is vital. 

Often people who have a family member who has Alzheimers wonder about the importance of genetics. They are worried about inheriting the disease themselves or passing it onto the next generation. Although this is important it is to be noted that genes are rarely the direct cause of the disease. In most cases genetics may be one of the factors influencing the risk of developing the disease. 

There was a time not so long ago that it was thought that aluminum and Alzheimers had a direct link but most scientists no longer think aluminum, from pans or other sources, causes it. 

Are you displaying any of the Alzheimers symptoms? 

The most common risk factors for Alzheimers is age. The number of people with the disease doubles every 5 years beyond age 65. How old are you? Are you at risk?

• Alzheimers Disease
  
  Alzheimers Disease is widespread, but much misunderstood. It is a form of dementia, and has a range of confusing symptoms.
• Alzheimers Symptoms
  
  Alzheimers symptoms generally start with mild memory loss and progress to more confusion, disorientation and inability to remember date or time.
• Alzheimers Treatment
  
  Alzheimers treatment can only commence after diagnosis has been made, and there can be some interesting alternatives to consider for you or for someone close to you.
• Alzheimers Care
  
  Alzheimers care is a 24 hour, 7 days a week task, but if it can be shared between family and friends, carers can have important breaks from the load.
• Alzheimers Book - Recommendations
  
  A couple of books that we highly recommend you look at if dealing with a person with Alzheimers.

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