What is Alzheimer’s Disease ?

Alzheimer’s Disease in the elderly is a disease affecting the brain. It is a progressive illness which over time destroys and kills part of the brain causing the sufferer to experience worsening symptoms. Alzheimer's is a severe form of dementia.

Early stages of Alzheimer’s Disease usually begin slowly with confusion (not knowing where they live), memory loss, and difficulty in putting together the correct words.

These symptoms do not always point to the beginning of Alzheimer’s Disease but can be the cause of an infection. Very often a urinary or chest infection. Therefore, this should always be investigated first.

The usual age for the onset of Alzheimer’s disease is around 60-80 years of age although some younger people can develop the illness.

Later as the illness progresses the sufferer will need more and more support along with their families and carers. For support visit Further information and Support groups and Forum

For a list of homes specialising in care for those with Alzheimer's please visit EMI homes for Alzheimer's