What is Alzheimer’s?
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, affecting memory, thinking, behaviour, and the ability to carry out everyday activities. In the UK, almost one million people are living with dementia, with Alzheimer’s accounting for around 60–70% of all cases.
Receiving an Alzheimer’s diagnosis can feel overwhelming, both for the individual and their loved ones. However, understanding the condition and knowing what support is available can make a significant difference in maintaining independence and quality of life.
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive condition that affect the brain. It damages never cells, causing them to lose their ability to communicate with one another. Over time, this affects memory, thinking, behaviour, and the ability to carry out everyday tasks
Unlike normal age-related forgetfulness, Alzheimer’s gradually worsens over time. While there is no current cure, treatments, lifestyle changes and the right people can help people live well with the condition for years.
Although Alzheimer’s is mostly diagnosed in people over the age of 65, it is not considered a normal part of ageing. Some people can also develop it younger than 65.
What can cause Alzheimer’s?
Researchers are still working to fully understand the cause of Alzheimer’s disease. It is believed to develop due to a combination of factors, including:
- Increasing age
Age is the biggest known risk factor, although it is not a normal part of ageing, the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s increases significantly after the age of 65. As we grow older, changes naturally occur in the brain, making it more vulnerable to diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
- Family history and genetics
Having a close family member, such as a parent or sibling, with Alzheimer’s may slightly increase your risk of developing the condition. While most cases are no directly inherited, certain genes can make someone more susceptible. However, having a family history does not mean you will definitely develop Alzheimer’s.
- Lifestyle factors
Healthy lifestyle choices can play an important role in supporting the brains health. Factors such as smoking, physical inactivity, excessive alcohol consumption, an unhealth diet and poor heart health may increase the risk of Alzheimer’s overtime. Stayig active, eating a balanced dies and maintaining good cardiovascular health may help reduce the risk.
- High blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol.
Conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels can also affect the brain. High blood pressure, diabetes, obesity and high cholesterol can reduce blood flow to the brain and may increase the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s. Managing these conditions through medication, regular check-ups and a healthy lifestyle is important for overall health.
- Previous head injuries
Research suggest that experiencing a serious head injury, particularly one involving loss of consciousness, may increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s later in life. Wearing seatbelts, using appropriate protective equipment during sports, and taking steps to prevent falls can help reduce the risk of head injuries.
In people with Alzheimer’s, abnormal proteins build up in the brain, forming plaques and tangles. This damages the brain cells, disrupting communication between them and eventually causing cells to die.
How Heritage Healthcare Can Help
For someone living with Alzheimer’s, having the right support can make everyday life feel more manageable and help maintain independence for as long as possible. At Heritage Healthcare, we provide personalised home care tailored to each individual’s needs, routines and preferences. Our Care Professionals can offer compassionate support with personal care, medication, meals, household tasks and companionship, as well as helping individuals continue to enjoy familiar hobbies and activities. By providing care in the comfort of their own home, we aim to promote dignity, reassurance and quality of life while giving families greater peace of mind.
