Alzheimer's disease is a brain disease that causes memory loss, decreased ability to think and speak, and changes in behavior. This disease can get worse over time so that the sufferer is no longer able to do daily work.
Alzheimer 's disease can progress over time and affect several brain functions. In the early stages, sufferers will experience mild memory problems, such as not remembering names of objects, conversations, or events that have recently happened.
Over time, Alzheimer's disease can get worse. Sufferers of this condition can experience confusion or anxiety, and are always suspicious of other people.
Alzheimer's disease generally occurs in someone over the age of 60.
Alzheimer's Disease Causes and Symptoms
Alzheimer's disease occurs due to the accumulation of abnormal proteins that interfere with the performance of nerve cells in the brain. In the long term, the brain will lose various functions, such as controlling thoughts, memory, and language.
Research also shows that Alzheimer's disease is triggered by various factors, such as genetics, lifestyle, and environment.
Symptoms of Alzheimer's disease can vary for each sufferer. However, a common symptom is difficulty communicating, and difficulty recognizing faces and people around them, including family and friends ( prosopagnosia ). People with Alzheimer's disease also often experience depression or delusions.
Treatment and Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease
Until now, there is no method to cure Alzheimer's disease. However, drugs such as rivastigmine can slow the worsening of symptoms experienced by people with Alzheimer's disease. Doctors can also recommend psychotherapy, including cognitive stimulation therapy.
Because the cause is unknown, Alzheimer's disease is difficult to prevent. However, there are efforts that can be made to maintain brain health, for example not smoking, eating a balanced nutritious diet, and exercising.