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Alzheimer`s:The beginning


Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia, a condition that causes memory loss and other cognitive abilities that interfere with daily life. In light of this, Enso created a project that would bring quality of life for those with Alzheimer´s and their caregivers, hence "Therapeutic Interventions for The Support of Those with Alzheimer's Disease".


Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for up to 80% of cases.


The greatest known risk factor is increasing age, and the majority of people with Alzheimer's are 65 and older. Scientists have made tremendous progress in understanding Alzheimer's disease in recent years, although they not yet fully understand what causes Alzheimer's disease in the majority of people. A genetic mutation may be the cause of early-onset Alzheimer's disease. Late-onset Alzheimer's is caused by a complex series of brain changes that can take decades to manifest. The causes are most likely a mix of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Related to this, research shows that several lifestyle factors and conditions associated with cardiovascular disease can increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease, such as, smoking, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.


The most common early Alzheimer's symptom is difficulty remembering new information. The first signs of Alzheimer's disease differ from person to person. Non-memory aspects of cognition, such as word-finding, vision/spatial issues, and impaired reasoning or judgment, may signal the very early stages of the disease for many people.


Alzheimer's disease worsens gradually over time. People with Alzheimer's disease progress at different rates, from mild Alzheimer's, when symptoms first appear, to severe Alzheimer's, when they are completely dependent on others for care. The early and accurate diagnosis is important since while there is no cure for Alzheimer's, there are several medications available to treat the disease (medications are most effective in the early or middle stages) as well as coping strategies to manage behavioural symptoms.


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The European Commission support for the production of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the contents which reflects the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.


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