How rapidly it advances varies, but the brain disease eventually causes confusion, personality and behavior changes and impaired judgment. Communication becomes difficult as the person struggles to find words, finish thoughts or follow directions. Eventually, most people with Alzheimer's become unable to care for themselves. Dementia is an umbrella term to describe the loss of cognitive or intellectual function.
Many conditions can cause dementia.
Dementia related to depression, drug interactions and thyroid and other problems may be reversible if detected early. That's one of the reasons it's important to get a professional assessment, so the actual cause can be identified and proper care provided. Many healthy people are less able to remember certain kinds of information as they age. But the symptoms of Alzheimer's involves more than simple lapses in memory. People with Alzheimer's experience difficulties in communication, learning, thinking and reasoning that can have an impact on a person's work, social and family life.