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Alzheimer's Affects 60-80% of Dementia Cases: Symptoms, Stages, and Care

Understand Alzheimer's progression and stages. Discover how a multidisciplinary team can enhance quality of life.

This picture consists of a poster in the image.
This picture consists of a poster in the image.

Alzheimer's Affects 60-80% of Dementia Cases: Symptoms, Stages, and Care

Alzheimer's disease, a progressive form of dementia, affects a significant portion of dementia cases, ranging from 60% to 80%. It is a chronic condition that is not a typical part of aging and can impact anyone, with those over 65 and having a family history at a higher risk.

Alzheimer's symptoms progress gradually, starting with mild memory changes and advancing to significant difficulties in responding to the environment. These changes occur in stages, with later stages often involving trouble with talking, moving, and reacting to surroundings. Doctors can assess mental abilities and rule out other conditions, although a definitive diagnosis requires examining brain tissue post-mortem.

A team of healthcare professionals can help maintain quality of life at all stages of the disease. This team includes physical therapists, dietitians, speech-language pathologists, mental health professionals, pharmacists, social workers, and hospice care providers. Medications like donepezil, rivastigmine, aducanumab, and memantine can help ease symptoms and delay progression.

Key organizations involved in Alzheimer's care include the Alzheimer Forschung Initiative e.V., Alzheimer Gesellschaft Brandenburg e.V., and Desideria Care. While there is no cure, treatments like medication, physical therapy, talk therapy, and respite care can help slow the disease's progression and improve quality of life for those affected.

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