Alzheimer’s disease

Definition

Alzheimer’s disease, also known as Alzheimer’s dementiaDementia is a medical condition characterized by the progres... More, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects the brain and represents the most common form of dementia. It is named after the psychiatrist Alois Alzheimer, who first described the symptoms and characteristics of the disease in 1906.

Description

Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by the gradual loss of cognitive functions, such as memory, abstract thinking, spatial-temporal orientation, and language skills. Over time, the disease progresses and also affects behavior and the ability to carry out daily activities.

Causes

The exact causes of Alzheimer’s disease are not yet fully understood, but they are believed to be the result of a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. The formation of beta-amyloid protein plaques and tau protein tangles in the brain are considered key characteristics of the disease.

Symptoms

The early symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease may include occasional forgetfulness, difficulties in planning and problem solving, language problems, and mental confusion. As the disease progresses, symptoms become more evident and may include short-term memory loss, difficulty recognizing family members and friends, irritability, anxietyAnxiety is an emotional response characterized by feelings o... More, depressionDepression is a disorder characterized by persistent sadness... More, and difficulty performing daily activities.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is based on the exclusion of other causes of cognitive decline and on the evaluation of symptoms. Various diagnostic procedures are involved, including neuropsychological tests, blood tests, brain imaging such as positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), as well as the exclusion of other conditions.

Treatment

Currently, there is no definitive cure for Alzheimer’s disease. However, some medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms and delay the progression of the disease. Care and support for patients and their families are of fundamental importance in improving the quality of life of people affected by this disease.

Several studies indicate how physical exercise can produce beneficial effects in patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). It has therefore been suggested to include targeted motor activities both for preventive purposes and in the treatment of the early stages of the disease. For this purpose, so-called “Mindful Movement” practices present themselves as a possible resource of great value currently being investigated by scientific research.

Prognosis

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive condition that worsens over time. The duration of the disease may vary from person to person, but in general it can extend over several years. During the advanced stages of the disease, severe cognitive and physical difficulties may occur, making full-time assistance necessary.

Research

Research on Alzheimer’s disease is ongoing in order to better understand its causes and develop new therapies. Efforts are aimed at identifying early markers of the disease, developing drugs that can slow its progression, and improving care and assistance strategies for patients and their families.

Alzheimer’s disease represents a significant challenge for public health, as it affects an ever-increasing number of elderly people worldwide. Raising awareness of the importance of early diagnosis, access to appropriate medical support, and adequate assistance are essential to address the complexities associated with this debilitating disease.

Fondazione Patrizio Paoletti is currently involved as the leader of the European project AIDA with the aim of developing a new approach for Alzheimer’s patients, to improve their quality of life and that of their caregivers, their social relationships, the environment in which they live, and the services they receive.

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