Alzheimer’s Disease: Understanding, Symptoms, and Prevention

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Alzheimer’s disease is a common type of dementia that gradually impairs memory and cognitive abilities. It is not a simple aging process but a condition in which protein accumulates in the brain, damaging nerve cells. Initially, symptoms appear as minor forgetfulness, but they progressively worsen, making daily life difficult.

1. What Causes Alzheimer’s Disease?

The exact cause of Alzheimer’s disease is still unclear, but several key factors contribute to its development.

(1) Harmful Proteins Damage the Brain

Amyloid Beta: A toxic protein that accumulates in the brain, destroying nerve cells.
Tau Protein: Causes nerve cells to tangle, leading to brain dysfunction.

(2) Inflammation in the Brain

Poor vascular health or chronic inflammation increases the risk of brain cell damage.

(3) Genetic Influence

Individuals with a family history of Alzheimer’s disease may have a higher risk of developing it.

2. Common Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease

At first, symptoms resemble mild forgetfulness but progressively worsen over time.

(1) Early Symptoms (Mild Forgetfulness)

Difficulty remembering recent events.
Repeating the same questions frequently.
Often misplacing objects.

(2) Middle-Stage Symptoms (Daily Life Becomes Difficult)

Getting lost or losing sense of time and dates.
Struggling to find appropriate words during conversations.
Failing to recognize close family or friends.

(3) Late-Stage Symptoms (Severe Cognitive Decline)

Requires assistance with daily tasks.
Severe mood swings and confusion.
Difficulty swallowing food.

3. Is Alzheimer’s Disease Treatable?

There is no cure, but medications and lifestyle changes can help slow its progression.

(1) Medication Treatment

Donepezil, Rivastigmine: Slow down memory loss.
Memantine: Protects nerve cells and alleviates symptoms.

(2) Non-Medication Treatment

Brain-Stimulating Activities: Solving puzzles, reading, and drawing.
Hobbies & Exercise: Listening to music, engaging in physical activities.

4. How to Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease

There is no perfect prevention method, but adopting a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk.

(1) Engage in Brain-Stimulating Activities

Reading, learning new languages, and playing musical instruments strengthen cognitive abilities.
Daily puzzle-solving or strategic games help prevent mental decline.
Bilingual individuals have enhanced brain function and a lower risk of dementia.

(2) Regular Exercise

Aerobic exercises like walking, swimming, and yoga benefit brain health.
Seniors who walk 9–15 km per week show significantly reduced risks of dementia.
Even household chores such as cleaning, cooking, and washing dishes can help lower Alzheimer’s risk.

(3) Maintain a Healthy Diet

Consume plenty of fish, nuts, vegetables, and fruits.
Avoid processed foods and high-sugar diets.
People who consume omega-3-rich foods like fish and nuts tend to have lower beta-amyloid levels, which are linked to Alzheimer’s.

(4) Prioritize Sleep and Manage Stress

Sleep deprivation negatively affects brain health—aim for 7–8 hours of sleep per night.
Practices like meditation and listening to music help reduce stress levels.

5. Conclusion

Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by the accumulation of abnormal proteins such as amyloid beta and tau proteins, leading to the gradual death of brain nerve cells. The disease is the leading cause of dementia, accounting for 50–60% of dementia cases.

Since there is no definitive cure or treatment, early detection and prevention are crucial. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and engaging in brain-stimulating activities are the best ways to reduce the risk. If you notice any warning signs in yourself or a loved one, consult a doctor as soon as possible!