Symptoms of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease generally affects memory and the ability to think logically. Other important skills that may be impaired include language, complex motor activities, perception, and organizational skills. In its most severe form, Alzheimer's disease can interfere with a person's ability to perform daily tasks, such as dressing, bathing, and eating.

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Alzheimer's disease is the single most common cause of dementia. Dementia is a sustained decline in thinking, with memory loss and at least one other area of deficit in great enough degree to interfere with social or occupational activities.

Most patients' symptoms progress slowly over a number of years. Symptoms may not be noticed early on. Sometimes, it is only when family members look back that they realize when the changes started to occur. The symptoms of Alzheimer's disease may resemble those of other medical conditions or problems, so it is important to talk to your doctor for an accurate diagnosis.

This section includes:

• A list of symptoms of Alzheimer's disease
• A discussion of memory and normal aging