Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disease that affects millions of people worldwide.
It is the most common cause of dementia, a group of brain diseases that impair memory, thinking, and behavior. Alzheimer’s disease may not immediately arise as a cause of death, but it is actually a fatal condition. In this article, we will explore why Alzheimer’s disease causes death and discuss the importance of Alzheimer’s insurance in dealing with the financial implications of the disease.
Before delving into why Alzheimer’s is considered the cause of death, it is essential to understand the nature of the disease. Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by the accumulation of abnormal protein deposits called plaques and tangles in the brain. These deposits disrupt the normal function of brain cells and lead to a gradual loss of cognitive ability.
Alzheimer’s disease typically progresses slowly over several years.
In its early stages, an individual may experience mild memory loss and difficulties in speech and problem solving. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms develop, including confusion, disorientation, and changes in behavior and personality. Eventually, you lose the ability to perform even the simplest tasks, such as eating food or getting dressed.
As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, it not only affects cognitive function but also physical health. People with Alzheimer’s disease often experience weight loss, muscle weakness, and decreased mobility. They become more vulnerable to infections such as pneumonia, and can more seriously threaten their health. In addition, it can cause complications such as aspiration pneumonia and dehydration because the brain cannot properly control body functions.
People with Alzheimer’s disease are more likely to develop other medical conditions that can accelerate the disease’s progression and lead to death.
For example, they can experience cardiovascular problems, such as heart disease or stroke, which can have a devastating effect on an already damaged brain. Infection, urinary tract problems, and respiratory problems are common in the advanced stages of the disease and can contribute to a decrease in overall health.
At the end of Alzheimer’s disease, individuals become completely dependent on others for their care and are often hospitalized. They may lose the ability to swallow, leading to feeding difficulties and malnutrition. The immune system weakens, making them more vulnerable to life-threatening infections. Eventually, the body closes down, and death occurs.