Why Alzheimer’s disease happens?

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common underlying cause of dementia. There are multiple factors involved in the development of the disease. Genetics, lifestyle, and environment are each thought to play a role. Scientists have also identified risk factors like age, family history, and hereditary factors.

Age is a primary factor in Alzheimer’s disease. Most people who develop the condition are over 65, and risk increases as a person ages. Family history contributes, as those with a close relative with the disease are more likely to develop it. Diseases that run in the family may seem to point only to genetics, but families share environments and environmental factors as well.

Scientists have identified genes that contribute to the development of the disease as well. Still, very few cases are linked to a deterministic gene that determines that a person develops it instead of genes that influence development. Head injury, heart health factors, and overall health can contribute to Alzheimer’s development.

The process that Alzheimer’s disease follows involves worsening conditions in the brain thought to be caused by the buildup of proteins that interfere with communication between brain cells or neurons. Over time, brain cells die, and the brain itself atrophies or shrinks. Symptoms involve memory, thinking and reasoning, and changes in personality and behavior. Symptoms can include:

• Repeating statements or questions over and over
• Misplacing things, putting them in illogical locations, and being unable to retrace steps to find them
• Getting lost in familiar settings
• Forgetting names of family members and familiar objects
• Difficulty finding words
• Trouble concentrating
• Difficulty with numbers, paying bills on time, and other financial tasks
• Poor judgment and difficulty with decisions
• Problems with planning or operating everyday objects
• Depression
• Social withdrawal
• Mood instability
• Distrust
• Sleeping problems

If you or someone you know has symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, talk with your doctor or contact the Alzheimer’s Helpline at 1-800-272-3900. If you are a caregiver for someone living with Alzheimer’s, it can be helpful to talk with a therapist to manage the stress that can often be involved in caregiving. Local and online support groups for Alzheimer’s caregivers may also be helpful to you.