It was in 1906 that a German physician, Dr. Alois Alzheimer,  first described the illness that now bears his name.

Alzheimer's Disease  (A.D.) is a progressive, degenerative disease that attacks the brain and results in impaired memory, thinking, and behavior.  The patient experiences confusion and marked behavioral and personality changes, which ultimately results in the inability to care for himself.

Despite extensive research world wide, the cause of the disease still is unknown and there is no prevention or cure at this time.    

The first symptoms develop so gradually that they frequently are overlooked by family and friends.  Often, it is incorrectly assumed that the symptoms are a normal part of aging.

Ten warning signs of A.D. are:
	Memory loss Difficulty performing familiar tasks Disorientation as to time and place Poor or decreased judgment Problems with abstract thinking Misplacing things Rapid mood swings Problems with language Changes in personality and loss of initiative (sleeping more than usual or sitting in front of the TV for hours).

Once A.D. is suspected, immediately seek a comprehensive evaluation from a neurologist or neuro-psychiatrist.  While there is no cure, there is treatment, which can slow the progress of the disease and improve cognitive and behavioral symptoms.   

If you are, or become, a caregiver for an A.D. patient, keep your temper, keep you sense of humor, and remember:  Your loved one isn't trying to be difficult; he/she just can't remember how to behave.