Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative brain disease that affects memory, cognitive function, and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia, affecting more than six million Americans. The cause of the disease thought to be caused by an abnormal buildup of proteins that form plaques around brain cells and tangles within them.

Patients with Alzheimer’s experience progressive cognitive decline through three general stages: early, middle and late. The rate of progression through these stages differs by individual, and there are signs and symptoms associated with each.

Two new treatments for Alzheimer’s diseases have been shown to be effective at removing beta-amyloid proteins, common in the brains of patients with the disease, which seems to reduce cognitive and functional decline. Other medications can help slow the rate of decline or control symptoms but have side effects that can pose risks to seniors.

Because Alzheimer’s most commonly affects older adults, it is important that community staff understand the symptoms, behaviors, and treatments associated with the disease to better understand the residents they are caring for.