It is associated with two abnormal proteins in the brain, amyloid plaques and tau tangles, which begin accumulating years before symptoms appear. Memory is usually affected first because the changes start in the hippocampus.
It accounts for roughly 60 to 80 percent of dementia cases. Progression is gradual, typically over several years, and varies widely between people.
Why it matters
It is the diagnosis most families are given, and the one most research, treatment and support is built around.
Sources
Where to check this, and where to read more. All external and all authoritative.
- National Institute on Aging: What is Alzheimer's disease?
- Alzheimer's Association: What is Alzheimer's?
Alzheimer's disease where you live
The local guide on this, for each city we cover.
- Baltimore, MD
- Boston, MA
- Buffalo, NY
- Charlotte, NC
- Chicago, IL
- Columbus, OH
- Dallas, TX
- Denver, CO
- Detroit, MI
- Houston, TX
- Los Angeles, CA
- Memphis, TN
- Milwaukee, WI
- New York, NY
- Philadelphia, PA
- Phoenix, AZ
- San Antonio, TX
- San Diego, CA
- Seattle, WA
- Tucson, AZ