Degenerative disease of the brain associated with diffuse accumulation of extra-cellular beta-amyoid protein plaques, intracellular tau proteins that create neuro-fibrillary tangles, and overall loss of neurons and synapses over time
Precise cause for development of these pathological features is unknown
Risk Factors
Age > 65
Hx Down's syndrome
Symptoms
Progressive over years
Loss of short term memory first
As progresses, affects ability to function
Ultimately loss of higher level processing → ability to do calculations, engage in high level and then simpler conversations
Can have behavioral problems
Ultimately loss of long term memory, ability to recognize/interact/live independently