Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, a group of conditions that progressively impair memory, thinking, and behavior.
In Italy, it represents about 60–80% of dementia cases and is among the leading causes of death in the elderly
Most affected people are over 65 years old, but rarer early-onset forms (before age 60) do exist. Alzheimer’s should not be considered an inevitable consequence of aging: it is a neurodegenerative disease that requires early diagnosis and appropriate care.
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On this page
- What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?
- What Are the Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease?
- How Do You Diagnose Alzheimer’s Disease?
- How Do You Treat Alzheimer’s Disease?
What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that initially affects memory and, over time, impairs language, judgment, behavior, and independence.
It is caused by the degeneration of neurons and the abnormal accumulation of proteins (beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles) that damage the brain’s nerve cells.
The rate of progression varies from person to person, but in most cases it leads to increasing dependence on family members and caregivers.
There is currently no definitive cure, but pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments can relieve symptoms, slow cognitive decline, and improve quality of life.
What Are the Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease?
Symptoms may vary, but Alzheimer’s generally progresses through the following stages:
- Early stage (mild): difficulty remembering names, appointments, or words; repeating questions; trouble planning daily activities.
- Middle stage (moderate): worsening memory; disorientation in time and space; language difficulties; neglect of personal hygiene; irritability or depression.
- Advanced stage (severe): inability to recognize loved ones; loss of independence in daily activities; behavioral disturbances (delusions, agitation, insomnia); difficulty walking or eating.
- Terminal stage: near-total loss of cognitive and motor functions, requiring continuous care.
Always consult your doctor if you notice persistent symptoms or significant cognitive changes in yourself or a family member.
How Do You Diagnose Alzheimer’s Disease?
The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s is not based on a single test, but on a comprehensive evaluation that includes:
- Clinical and family history (collection of medical history and symptoms reported also by caregivers)
- Neuropsychological tests to assess memory, language, attention, and reasoning abilities
- Neurological examination and physical assessment
- Blood tests to rule out other causes of cognitive impairment (e.g., vitamin deficiencies, thyroid dysfunctions).
- Imaging tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), or brain PET scan to detect typical changes.
- Biomarkers in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) at specialized centers, useful for earlier and more accurate diagnosis.
In some cases, the term mixed dementia is used when symptoms overlap with other forms of cognitive decline.
How Do You Treat Alzheimer’s Disease?
Currently, there is no definitive cure for Alzheimer’s, but there are therapies that can slow the progression of the disease and relieve symptoms.
Pharmacological treatments
- Symptomatic drugs: cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine, which improve communication between neurons and may reduce certain cognitive and behavioral symptoms.
- Next-generation drugs (currently being introduced in Europe) aim to reduce the accumulation of beta-amyloid in the brain.
- Supportive therapies for associated symptoms such as anxiety, depression, agitation, or sleep disturbances.
Non-pharmacological treatments
- Cognitive stimulation and neuropsychological rehabilitation.
- Regular physical activity, which helps maintain motor function and overall well-being.
- Psychological support for patients and caregivers.
- Safe home environment and stable routine to reduce stress.
Management of behavioral symptoms
- Maintain a calm and reassuring environment.
- Use eye contact and call the person by name.
- Avoid contradicting them or correcting their memory.
- Simplify daily activities and keep regular schedules.
Provide support with calmness, patience, and flexibility.
Reviewed August 2025.