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a progressive neurologic disorder, particularly affecting older people, that slowly destroys brain cells and causes thinking ability and memory to deteriorate over time
What is "Alzheimer's disease"?
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain disorder that gradually destroys memory and thinking skills, eventually affecting the ability to carry out simple tasks. It is the most common cause of dementia, a decline in mental function that interferes with daily life. Alzheimer's disease typically begins with mild memory loss and confusion and progresses to serious problems, including difficulty speaking, swallowing, and walking. While the exact cause of Alzheimer's is not fully understood, it involves abnormal buildup of proteins in the brain that disturb communication between nerve cells and lead to their eventual death. There is currently no cure for Alzheimer's disease, but medications and treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life for affected individuals. Research continues to search for ways to prevent, slow, or even reverse the progression of this condition.