Now that my parents are getting older, I notice more and more people in my area who are falling prey to Alzheimer's: former neighbors, an uncle, an aunt.

Alzheimer's is the most common form of dementia and affects millions of people worldwide. It is a progressive brain disease that affects memory, thinking and ultimately daily functioning. The disease is caused by buildup of proteins in the brain that damage nerve cells.

Symptoms and course

In the early stages, someone with Alzheimer's often suffers from forgetfulness and difficulty finding words. As the disease progresses, problems arise with orienting, reasoning, and performing daily tasks. At a later stage, people can no longer recognize their loved ones and need intensive care.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of Alzheimer's is not yet fully understood, but age, genetic predisposition and lifestyle play an important role. Factors such as an unhealthy lifestyle, high blood pressure, and low mental and physical activity can increase the risk of the disease.

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