Do all the symptoms appear at the same time?

No. There is a variation in the rate of change from person to person. The disease can eventually renders its victims totally incapable of caring for themselves.

What is the cause of Alzheimer's disease?

The cause of Alzheimer's disease is not known and is currently receiving intensive scientific investigation. Suspected causes include a genetic predisposition, a slow virus or other infectious agents, environmental toxins and immunologic changes. There are other factors under investigation.

How is Alzheimer's disease diagnosed?

There is no single clinical test to identify Alzheimer's disease. Before diagnosis of the disease is made, other conditions must be excluded such as depression, adverse drug reactions, metabolic changes, nutritional deficiencies, head injuries and stroke.

Is there a cure for Alzheimer's disease?

Although no cure for Alzheimer's disease is available at present, good planning and medical and social management can ease the burdens on the patient and family.