Journal of Psychology & Psychotherapy
Open Access

Alzheimer's Disease: Exploring Memory Loss and Advancing Treatment Options

Nuria Iker^{* *}Correspondence: Nuria Iker, Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Granada, Granada, Andalousia, Spain, Email:

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Description

Alzheimer’s disease, a neurodegenerative condition named after Dr. Alois Alzheimer, has become one of the most prevalent and distressing forms of dementia worldwide. It affects millions of individuals, shedding them of their memories, cognitive functions, and, eventually, their independence. With no known cure, Alzheimer’s presents a difficult challenge, not only for those diagnosed but also for their caregivers, families, and the healthcare system. In this perspective article, we explore the impact of Alzheimer’s on individuals and society, explore into the mechanisms behind its progression, and discuss the potential pathways to a future with more effective treatments and ultimately, hope for a cure.

Alzheimer’s is often described as a "silent" disease because its symptoms tend to emerge gradually, sometimes going unnoticed in its early stages. At first, the changes may seem like common spaces in memory-forgetting where you placed your keys or missing an appointment. However, as the disease progresses, these memory gaps become more frequent and severe. What begins as minor forgetfulness eventually adapts into an inability to recognize loved ones, remember personal history, or perform basic daily tasks. One of the greatest challenges with Alzheimer’s is that its onset often coincides with what many people perceive as "normal aging." This confusion leads to delays in diagnosis, with individuals and their families clearing off symptoms as part of getting older. Early diagnosis is critical for managing the disease, as treatments available today are most effective when implemented during the early stages.

Exploring Alzheimer’s progression

The brain of an Alzheimer’s patient undergoes profound changes, most particularly the buildup of two types of abnormal protein structures: Amyloid plaques and tau tangles. These plaques are clumps of a protein called beta-amyloid that accumulate between neurons, disrupting communication between brain cells. Tau tangles, on the other hand, form inside neurons and cause them to malfunction and eventually die. These abnormal protein formations are accompanied by inflammation and a reduction in the neurotransmitters that facilitate brain communication. Over time, the brain atrophies, particularly in areas responsible for memory and cognition, like the hippocampus and the cortex. This neurodegeneration leads to the hallmark symptoms of Alzheimer’s, including memory loss, disorientation, and a decline in judgment and reasoning skills.

Impact on individuals and families

For individuals, Alzheimer’s disease is a gradual stripping away of identity. They may start losing short-term memory, forget recent conversations or events, and eventually struggle to recall long-term memories. As their cognitive abilities fade, individuals often experience confusion, disorientation, and mood swings. The frustration of these cognitive gaps frequently manifests as anxiety, depression, or even aggression. In the advanced stages of the disease, patients may no longer recognize their loved ones or their own reflection in the mirror. But Alzheimer’s doesn't just impact the individual diagnosed-it reverberates through families and caregivers, who are often tasked with the emotional and physical burden of care. Many caregivers report feeling overcome, both by the responsibility of managing day-to-day care and by witnessing the decline of someone they love. Family dynamics can shift as siblings, spouses, and children negotiate caregiving duties, often at the expense of their own careers and mental health. The financial strain of long-term care can be significant, especially as Alzheimer’s patients require more intensive support in the later stages of the disease.

Cure and progression

Despite decades of research, Alzheimer’s disease remains incurable, with treatments focused primarily on managing symptoms rather than uncertain or reversing the disease’s progression. Most current medications, such as cholinesterase inhibitors (e.g., donepezil) and NMDA antagonists (e.g., memantine), work to temporarily improve cognitive function by enhancing communication between brain cells. However, these drugs are not effective for all patients and offer only modest benefits.

The search for a cure or more effective treatments has focused heavily on targeting amyloid plaques and tau tangles. Several clinical trials aimed at clearing amyloid plaques have yielded disappointing results, raising questions about whether amyloid accumulation is a cause or a consequence of the disease. However, recent research suggests that targeting both amyloid and tau might be necessary to slow or stop the progression of Alzheimer’s. In 2021, the FDA approved aducanumab, a drug designed to reduce amyloid plaques, though its efficacy remains a topic of debate in the scientific community.

Beyond amyloid and tau, researchers are exploring other potential possibilities for intervention, such as targeting neuro inflammation, improving brain plasticity, and enhancing the brain's natural defense mechanisms. Genetics also plays a role in Alzheimer’s, with mutations in genes like APOE4 increasing the risk of developing the disease. Understanding these genetic factors may unlock new strategies for both prevention and treatment.

Conclusion

Alzheimer’s disease presents one of the most pressing healthcare challenges of our time, with cases expected to rise dramatically as populations age globally. While scientific progress is being made, much remains to be done to provide patients and families with effective treatments and, eventually, a cure. Greater public awareness, increased funding for research, and enhanced support for caregivers are all critical components of the fight against Alzheimer’s. By understanding the disease better, promoting early diagnosis, and fostering a culture of support and empathy for those affected, we can collectively work toward a future where Alzheimer’s is not an inevitability but a condition that can be prevented, treated, and ultimately overcome.