Alzheimer's Facts and Figures
Alzheimer's and the brain
Just like the rest of our bodies, our brains change as we age. Most of us notice some slowed thinking and occasional problems remembering certain things. However, serious memory loss, confusion and other major changes in the way our minds work are not a normal part of aging. They may be a sign that brain cells are failing.
The brain has 100 billion nerve cells (neurons). Each nerve cell communicates with many others to form networks.
Nerve cell networks have special jobs. Some are involved in thinking, learning and remembering. Others help us see, hear and smell. Still others tell our muscles when to move.
To do their work, brain cells operate like tiny factories. They take in supplies, generate energy, construct equipment and get rid of waste. Cells also process and store information. Keeping everything running requires coordination as well as large amounts of fuel and oxygen.
In Alzheimer’s disease, parts of the cell’s factory stop running well. Scientists are not sure exactly where the trouble starts. But just like a real factory, backups and breakdowns in one system cause problems in other areas. As damage spreads, cells lose their ability to do their jobs well. Eventually, they die.
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Alzheimer's PDF Downloads
Alzheimer's Disease (3 pages)
Alzheimer's Disease: The Basics (32 pages)
Alzheimer's and Other Dementias (4 pages)
Alzheimer's and Diabetes (2 pages)
Behavioral and Psychiatric Alzheimer Symptoms (4 pages)
Beta-Amyloid Hypothesis (3 pages)
Diagnosis and Treatment; Consensus Statement
Documentation Guide (for changes in abilities) (9 pages)
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Facts and Figures (2 pages)
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Genetic Testing (2 pages)
Mild Cognitive Impairment (3 pages)
Participating in Clinical Trials (3 pages)
Stages of Alzheimer's (3 pages)
Ten Warning Signs (3 pages)
Ten Ways to Help a Family Living with Alzheimer's (2 pages)
Treatments for Alzheimer's Disease (3 pages)
Tools for Early Identification, Assessment and Treatment (40 pages)
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Find the Alzheimer's Association anywhere in the United States, and learn about programs and services available in your area, including support groups and educational workshops.
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