06-Sat-Jun-2026
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Author :
Dr. Sheikh Jeelani
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BNYS | FTECH
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behaviour. It is the most common cause of dementia, especially in older adults, but it is not a normal part of aging. Over time, it worsens, making it difficult for those affected to carry out daily tasks.
Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease progresses through several stages, including:
Early Stage: Memory loss is mild but noticeable. People may forget recently occurring events or familiar names.
Moderate Stage: In this stage, cognitive decline becomes more apparent. The patient may have problems with problem-solving, speaking, or carrying on with routine activities.
Advanced Stage: At this stage, patients can become unable to talk and may require full-time care since they are challenged in the basic functions of eating and walking.
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease
Recognising the warning signs of Alzheimer's disease is helpful in its early detection. The common warning signs include:
Memory loss that disrupts daily life
Difficulty planning or solving problems
Confusion about time or place
Misplacing things and inability to trace back the steps
Mood and personality changes
Causes of Alzheimer's Disease
The causes of Alzheimer's disease are not known with complete certainty; however, it is generally believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. It involves abnormal protein buildup in the brain, in which the accumulation of these proteins causes damage to nerve cells, thereby affecting cognitive functions. While age is the highest risk factor for Alzheimer's disease, it is not solely age that contributes to the onset of Alzheimer's disease.
Risk Factors for Alzheimer's Disease
Several factors for developing Alzheimer's, as listed below:
Age: The risk increases sharply after the age of 65.
Family history: A higher chance if a parent or sibling had the disease.
Genetics: Specific genes can raise the risk.
Health issues: Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease may contribute to Alzheimer’s.
Lifestyle: A sedentary lifestyle, smoking, poor diet, poor quality of sleep, lack of exercise and lack of socialising can also play a role.
Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease
Although we cannot completely prevent Alzheimer’s, certain lifestyle changes can lower the risk. These include:
Staying active: Regular exercise improves brain health.
Diet: Healthy dietary patterns are those that are rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These food patterns reduce the risk.
Staying mentally active: Engaging oneself in activities that challenge the brain, such as puzzles, reading, and skill development.
Social networks: Make it a point to catch up with your loved ones and participate in group activities like attending religious services, hitting the gym, joining book clubs, or getting involved in community service.
Conclusion
While there is no cure for Alzheimer's, research and care are progressing towards helping those affected with the promise of better management and an improved quality of life.
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