Introduction
Alzheimer’s is a brain disease that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. It is not a normal part of aging.
Dementia describes memory loss and other intellectual difficulties severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s accounts for 60 to 80 percent of dementia cases.
Millions of people live with Alzheimer’s, and its impact extends to family, friends and caregivers.
It worsens over timeAlzheimer’s progresses over time. Symptoms include severe memory loss, confusion, disorientation, misplaced objects and difficulty speaking or writing.
Diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure and high cholesterol may also increase the risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Research continues to examine these connections.