What is Alzheimer's disease? Alzheimer's is a type of dementia, which causes the progressive loss of brain cells and tissue that affects a person's memory, thinking, and behavior. It will eventually progress to the point that it interferes with your daily tasks and activities.

Alzheimer's is currently the sixth leading cause of death but is estimated to rank third since so many people go undiagnosed. The disease ranks just behind heart disease and cancer according to the National Institute of Aging. Researchers estimate that 5.8 million people are suffering from this disease.

Alzheimer's can begin to appear between the ages of 30 and 65. It begins with mild memory loss, wandering, repeating questions, and personality changes.

Then it progresses into losing control of reasoning, conscious thought, and sensory processing. A person will begin to no longer recognize friends and family. They may also experience hallucinations, delusions, and paranoia.

Lastly, a person with alzheimers will lose all sense of communication and will rely on others for their care. They will probably spend their final days in a bed as their body slowly shuts down.

As the body shuts down it may develop infections as the immune system begins to fail. There is rapid weight loss because of a decreased appetite.

People with Alzheimer's or dementia are more susceptible to urinary infections due to trouble bathing and dehydration. Urinary infections will usually cause increased confusion and abdominal pain. In the late stages of this disease, the ability to chew and swallow is lost.

There is currently no cure for this disease. However, there are medications to help slow the progression.

As for the families, this disease affects them as well. Having to care for a loved one with Alzheimer's is a very difficult task. Having to keep an eye on them so that they don't wander away when in public can be a very stressful experience. It can be exhausting living with the repetitive questions and behavioral issues that come with the disease. Most caregivers end up needing extra help caring for their loved ones. This can come in the form of a home aide or an Alzheimer's facility for them to live in.

Alzheimer’s can be a very difficult disease to live with for both caregivers and the person suffering. Just know that you are not alone and there are lots of other families that know what you are going through. If you know someone who is battling this disease, there are resources to help you and your loved one get through it.