Alzheimer's is the most common form of dementia, a general term for memory loss and other intellectual abilities serious enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer's, though the majority of sufferers are 65 & older, is NOT a normal part of aging. It also worsens over time. In its early stages, memory loss is mild, but with late stage Alzheimer's, individuals lose the ability to carry on a conversation and respond to their environment.
Alzheimer's has no current cure, but treatments for symptoms are available and research continues.
The brain has 100 billion nerve cells. Each nerve cell connects with many others to form communication networks. Groups of nerve cells have special jobs. Some are involved in thinking, learning, and remembering. Others help us see, hear, and smell.
To do their work, brain cells operate like tiny factories. They receive supplies, generate energy, construct equipment, and get rid of waste. Cells also process and store information and communicate with other cells.
Scientists believe Alzheimer's disease prevents parts of a cells factory from running well.
Source: {http://m.alz.org/what-is-alzheimers.asp#thebasics}
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