Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, is the most common cause of dementia worldwide. It affects memory, thinking, behavior, and eventually interferes with daily tasks. While it primarily affects older adults, early-onset cases can occur before age 65.

What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is marked by abnormal accumulations of proteins in and around brain cells—specifically beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles. These changes lead to the death of brain cells and a gradual shrinkage of brain tissue, impairing cognitive function.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 55 million people live with dementia globally, with Alzheimer’s accounting for 60–70% of cases.

What Are the Risk Factors?

1. Age: The strongest known risk factor. Most cases are diagnosed in people aged 65 and older.
2. Genetics: Presence of the APOE-e4 gene increases risk, although not everyone with this gene will develop Alzheimer’s.
3. Family History: Having a parent or sibling with Alzheimer’s increases risk.
4. Cardiovascular Health: High blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and smoking can raise risk.
5. Lifestyle Factors: Poor sleep, physical inactivity, low educational levels, and lack of social engagement are associated risks.
6. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): A history of head injuries may elevate susceptibility.

Signs and Symptoms

Alzheimer’s symptoms develop slowly and worsen over time. Common early and late-stage signs include:

• Early Stage:
  • Forgetting recent events or conversations
  • Misplacing items frequently
  • Difficulty planning or solving problems
  • Confusion with time or place
• Moderate Stage:
  • Mood changes and withdrawal
  • Trouble recognizing family or friends
  • Repetitive questioning
  • Difficulty with daily tasks
• Late Stage:
  • Severe memory loss
  • Inability to communicate
  • Physical decline
  • Dependence on others for care

Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease

1. Preclinical Alzheimer’s (no symptoms, but brain changes begin)
2. Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) due to Alzheimer’s
3. Mild Stage: Memory loss begins to affect daily life
4. Moderate Stage: Behavioral changes and significant memory loss
5. Severe Stage: Loss of ability to respond to the environment or control movement

Diagnosis

There is no single test. Diagnosis is based on:

• Detailed medical history
• Mental status testing (e.g., MMSE)
• Brain imaging (MRI, CT, or PET scans)
• Blood tests to rule out other causes
• In some cases, cerebrospinal fluid testing for beta-amyloid or tau

Treatment and Management

While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, several treatments can ease symptoms and improve quality of life:

• Medications:
  • Cholinesterase inhibitors (Donepezil, Rivastigmine)
  • NMDA receptor antagonists (Memantine)
  • New FDA-approved drug Lecanemab targets beta-amyloid buildup
• Lifestyle Interventions:
  • Brain-healthy diet (e.g., Mediterranean or MIND diets)
  • Regular physical activity
  • Mental stimulation (puzzles, reading, learning)
  • Social engagement and therapy
• Caregiver Support: Education, counseling, and respite care are crucial.

Preventive Strategies

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent Alzheimer’s, research suggests that the following may reduce risk:

• Managing hypertension, diabetes, and cholesterol
• Maintaining a balanced diet
• Staying mentally and socially active
• Getting quality sleep
• Avoiding smoking and excess alcohol

Alzheimer’s is not just a disease of memory loss—it deeply impacts families, caregivers, and the social fabric around the patient. Early awareness, regular screenings, and lifestyle modifications can make a meaningful difference in reducing risk and managing progression.

Stay informed. Stay engaged. And let us all strive to create dementia-inclusive communities.

References :
1. Alzheimer’s Disease
2.10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s and Dementia
3.Alzheimer’s Disease Fact Sheet
4, Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s