Alzheimer's Disease Explained

I have always been focused on the human aspects of dementia and Alzheimer's in my career as a nurse. I understand the behavior of these diseases, but the molecular level biology has never been compelling to me as a caregiver. I would prefer to look into someone's eyes before I looked in a microscope.

However, almost all patients and their families take some comfort from developing an understanding, even a general one, of the biology of their disease. It is an important step in reducing anxiety and allowing for acceptance.

The sad truth is that doctors do not know what causes Alzheimer's and there is no cure for this terminal brain disease. I know that first hand from my experience caring for my Grandmom during the final years of her life. However, Edie Yau, Director of the Alzheimer's Association, and Professor Geoffrey Kerchner MD, Stanford University, have done a good job of explaining the basics of Alzheimer's in plain language with simple graphics that are easy for us to understand.

We have lots of information about Alzheimer's and dementia on our web site, including brochures that you can print. But, the attached video is an excellent place to start your journey.