Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive deterioration in mental capacity due to the degeneration of the brain.  It is the most common form of dementia.  Generally it is diagnosed in senior citizens over 65 years of age, although the less-prevalent early-onset Alzheimer's can occur much earlier.

In this disorder, brain cells gradually degenerate and deposits of an abnormal protein build up in the brain.  As a result, the brain tissue shrinks, and there is a progressive loss of mental abilities, known as dementia.

For more information, you can see the accompanying articles in this section or contact the Alzheimer's Association.