aging

Alzheimer's disease and aging

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Alzheimer's disease and aging (Canada)

Learning what you can about Alzheimer's disease and how it progresses may help you adjust to the changes that you are experiencing. The changes are due to the disease; they are not your fault. Encourage your family members and friends to also learn about Alzheimer's disease. Your family doctor and the local Alzheimer Society are good sources of information.Some questions you may have about Alzheimer's disease

What is Alzheimer's disease?

Alzheimer's disease is not a normal part of growing old. Symptoms include having difficulty remembering things, making decisions and performing tasks. These changes can affect the way a person feels and acts. There is currently no way to stop the disease but there is hope that research will find a cure.

What causes Alzheimer's disease?

We do not yet know what causes Alzheimer's disease but researchers have identified risk factors associated with it.

* Age: Alzheimer's disease usually affects people over the age of 65, although some people may be diagnosed at an earlier age. The older you are, the greater the risk. * Family history: People with a parent, brother or sister with Alzheimer's disease have a greater chance of developing the disease than those with no family history. * Other factors: Research is being done on other factors such as existing diseases or conditions that the person may have, infections, toxins in the environment, education level, alcohol and tobacco use, diet and exercise.

Are there treatments for Alzheimer symptoms?

Several medications are now available to treat some Alzheimer symptoms. These drugs are not a cure for the disease. They do not stop its progression. Ask your doctor if there is a treatment suitable for you.

Will my children get Alzheimer's disease?

The majority of people with the disease have a common form called Sporadic Alzheimer's Disease. Researchers are trying to determine what role heredity plays in this form.

A very small percentage of people have an inherited form of the disease. This rare form is called Familial Autosomal Dominant Alzheimer's Disease. In certain families, it passes directly from one generation to another. Having more than one family member with Alzheimer's disease does not necessarily mean that your family has the inherited form.

Is there genetic testing for Alzheimer's disease?

Genetic testing for the disease is not widely available in Canada. It is usually limited to people with a strong family history of the disease who are enrolled in specific research studies. Some testing is also done on referral from a family physician. You cannot request genetic testing on behalf of another family member.

How does Alzheimer's disease progress?

The progression of the disease varies from person to person. The average length of the disease is between eight to 12 years. However, some people may have it for a longer time, others for a shorter time.
aging (also see prostate)