Alzheimer’s disease (AD) makes up around 62 per cent of dementia cases and is slightly more common in women than in men. The ‘amyloid cascade hypothesis’ has been suggested as the cause of AD by Klafki et al. and proposes that various forms of abnormal material in the brain affect how nerve cells function and communicate.

This reduces chemical messenger levels and prompts cell death. AD typically has a gradual onset with very mild initial symptoms. Memory is often affected first, particularly the learning of new information. As the disease progresses over many years, memory loss continues.

Language, thinking and carrying out daily activities can also be affected. Behavioural and psychiatric disturbances may occur, including depression, apathy, psychosis (hallucinations and delusions), incontinence and altered eating habits. Patients with AD may also experience mood swings and withdrawal. While the above are all common symptoms of AD, no two cases are the same.

Eventually, patients need assistance with all of their daily activities. People with AD often live for up to 10 or more years following their diagnosis.