Alzheimer's and Other Dementias
There are many different types of dementia, including Alzheimer's Disease and Vascular Dementia.
Dementia is the term used to describe a syndrome characterized by increasing impairment of brain functioning. Approximately 6.8 million Americans have dementia. The prevalence rates of dementia range from about 1 person in 50 for the ages 65-69 to 1 person in 4 for those over 85.
There are several different types of dementia. Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia in people aged 65 and older. Strong evidence suggests that an unusual clumping of a protein called beta amyloid damages brain cells and causes AD. In the early stages, AD patients experience memory impairment, lapses of judgment, and subtle personality changes. Over time, memory and language problems get worse and AD patients have more difficulty doing ordinary activities like balancing a checkbook, finding their way around in unfamiliar places, and maintaining social relationships. Nearly all brain functions are eventually affected.
Vascular Dementia is caused by problems with the brain’s blood vessels or by cardiovascular disease. There are several types of vascular dementia that vary in their causes and symptoms. Symptoms may appear suddenly and, depending upon whether the person has additional strokes, may worsen over time. In some cases, the symptoms may get better with time.
Other conditions that can cause dementia or dementia-like symptoms include reactions to medications, metabolic and hormonal abnormalities, nutrition deficiencies, infections, brain tumors, heart and lung problems, and emotional problems.
Alzheimer's and Other Dementias
