Understanding the Disease

Neurodegenerative Diseases (Dementia)

Neurodegenerative diseases, often referred to as “dementias,” are not a single specific condition, but rather general terms used to describe a group of disorders characterized by a decline in memory, thinking, and decision-making that is severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form, accounting for approximately 60% of cases.  

In many cases, the early signs that precede a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease correspond to mild cognitive impairment (MCI). As a result, MCI is often diagnosed before Alzheimer’s disease.

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) 

It is important to distinguish Alzheimer’s disease from mild cognitive impairment (MCI). MCI is a separate diagnosis characterized by mild difficulties with memory, language, or judgment. However, individuals with MCI remain independent in their daily activities. 

MCI can have different causes. In some cases, it is related to Alzheimer’s disease, while in others, it may be attributable to factors such as a concussion, stroke, or medication side effects. Depending on the underlying cause, symptoms may improve in some individuals over time or with appropriate treatment. 

Symptoms of MCI

The symptoms of MCI are similar to those of Alzheimer’s disease, but they are milder, appear earlier in the progression, and do not yet cause significant loss of independence. 

  • Feeling overwhelmed by planning or decision-making. 
  • Forgetting things more often. 
  • Forgetting important events, such as social commitments or appointments. 
  • Impulsivity and poor judgment. 
  • Losing track of thoughts. 
  • Difficulty navigating familiar environments. 
  • Depression and anxiety. 
  • Apathy. 
  • Feelings of irritability or aggression. 

Understanding the cause(s) of memory difficulties for each individual is an essential step in developing an appropriate action plan. That’s why it is important to establish a baseline to know what is normal for you. 

The Memory Clinic offers initial assessments at no cost. You can schedule an appointment by clicking here: Contact us

Alzheimer’s Disease

There are two forms of Alzheimer’s Disease, early onset and late onset.

Early onset Alzheimer’s Disease occurs in people under 65 years old. A very small percentage of early onset AD is due to familial inherited Alzheimer’s Disease.

Late onset Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common form and occurs in people over age 65. 

Alzheimer’s Disease has a gradual progression and begins with the onset of mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

As Alzheimer’s Disease progresses, areas of the brain degenerate, resulting in cell loss. This causes a progressive worsening of disease symptoms.

Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease

Symptoms may be expressed as changes in a person’s typical functioning. 

Gradual memory loss resulting in forgetting details of conversations
or events.

Loss of language skills. This could present itself in many ways, but some examples are searching for words or the inability to express thoughts.

Problems with
reasoning or judgment.

Disorientation that may cause difficulty keeping track of dates or appointments or difficulty navigating in both familiar and unfamiliar areas.

Difficulty
learning new skills.

Behavioural and psychological changes expressed as increased anxiety, apathy, depression, or acting out of character.

Decreased ability to perform daily tasks and function independently
in everyday life.

Deterioration Scale

  1. No cognitive decline
    Pathological changes are present in the brain. 
  1. Mild cognitive decline
    Occasional forgetfulness, misplacing objects, etc. Often confused with normal aging. 
  1. Mild cognitive impairment
    Noticeable cognitive changes, including memory problems and difficulty performing more complex tasks, such as recalling names. 
  1. Moderate cognitive decline
    More apparent cognitive difficulties and a need for assistance with certain complex tasks. 
  1. Moderately severe cognitive decline
    Clear signs of short-term memory loss. Disorientation in time, place, or date. 
  1. Severe cognitive decline
    Frequent short-term memory loss. Difficulty recognizing loved ones. Requires continuous support and is unable to perform complex tasks. 
  1. Very severe cognitive decline
    Loss of motor functions and inability to communicate. Total dependence on caregivers. 

Note: This scale is not a clinical tool and cannot be used to make a diagnosis or determine a precise stage in an individual. It is intended only to illustrate the progression of the disease. 

Pathology 

When an individual begins to notice symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, it reflects underlying changes in the brain that may have started 5 to 10 years earlier. The disease is characterized by the abnormal buildup of two proteins, amyloid beta and tau, which disrupt normal brain function. As these proteins accumulate, they also contribute to increased inflammation in the brain. 

Other causes of memory and thinking issues  

Many conditions can also affect memory and cognitive abilities. In some cases, symptoms are linked to medical issues that are manageable or treatable. 

These conditions may be the cause of the symptoms or may worsen an existing neurodegenerative disorder. For example, increased stress, insomnia, menopause, mental health challenges, or grief can lead to memory difficulties.