Alzheimer's disease
Short definition
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease and the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60 to 70% of cases according to the WHO.
In plain language
It typically begins with difficulty retaining recent information and progresses to changes in language, orientation, reasoning and behaviour, with gradual loss of independence. Older memories tend to be preserved for longer, which gives weight to approaches such as reminiscence. There is no cure; care combines medication, non-pharmacological interventions and support for those who provide care.