Alzheimer's disease is more severe than the mild memory loss that many people experience as they grow older. It affects not only memory but also behavior, personality, ability to think, and the ability to function from day to day. Close family members usually notice symptoms first, although the person affected also may realise that something is wrong.

Cause
Alzheimer's disease is caused by changes or deterioration in certain areas of the brain that control thinking, communication, and behavior.

Symptoms
Memory loss usually is the first sign of Alzheimer's disease. Among people in their 60s and 70s, having some short-term memory problems does not necessarily mean that a person will develop Alzheimer's disease, especially if other people do not notice anything unusual. If you start having memory problems, share your concerns with your family and doctor.

What increases the risk
Advancing age is the main risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. Other factors that may increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease include family history of Alzheimer's disease, Down syndrome, smoking, head injury, elevated homocysteine levels, exposure to lead, zinc, aluminum.

When to call a doctor
Alzheimer's disease tends to develop slowly over time. If confusion and other changes in mental abilities come on suddenly, within hours or days, the problem may be delirium, a condition that needs immediate treatment.

Exams and tests
It is very important to rule out delirium as a possible cause of symptoms, especially if the symptoms came on suddenly rather than gradually.

Symptoms of confusion and memory loss can sometimes be caused by depression. Depression is a very common problem among older adults, but sometimes it is difficult to recognise. It often is managed successfully with medication and other treatment.

It usually is helpful to have a family member or someone in close contact with the person present at the appointment with a doctor. A family member may be able to provide the best information about how a person's day-to-day functioning, memory, and personality have changed.

Prevention
Recent research suggests that a person's risk of developing Alzheimer's disease may be lowered or the onset of the disease may be delayed by:

*Increased intake of vitamin E and other antioxidants.

* Increased intake of folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12 for people with elevated homocysteine levels.

*Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as indomethacin, ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, or aspirin.

*Statins used to lower cholesterol.

Information for caregivers
Taking care of someone with Alzheimer's disease can be physically and emotionally draining, but there are ways to make it easier. One of the keys to successful home care is educating yourself. There is a lot you can do to make the most of the person's remaining abilities, manage the problems that develop, and improve the quality of his or her life as well as your own. Also remember that caregiving can be a positive experience for you and the person you are caring for.

If you are taking care of someone with Alzheimer's, one of the goals is to keep the person as healthy and safe as possible. A safe environment, good nutrition, regular sleep habits, good hygiene, and prompt care of other medical problems are important to the person's overall well-being.