Articles related to focusing on healthy aging, prevention, mobility, cognition, nutrition, independence, and caregiving support.
Dementia is not a normal part of aging, but rather a syndrome caused by various diseases that damage brain cells. This neurological damage severely interferes with the brain’s ability to communicate, leading to the cognitive decline and behavioral changes seen in those with the condition.
Age is the single greatest risk factor for Alzheimer's, with about 1 in 9 people age 65 and older diagnosed with the disease [1.6.1]. So, why does Alzheimer's disease occur in old age? It's a complex interplay of age-related brain changes, genetics, and environmental factors.
According to the National Institute on Aging, Alzheimer's is a progressive brain disorder causing memory loss and cognitive decline, and its effects often begin in the hippocampus. This intimate connection between this critical brain structure and neurodegeneration is key to understanding the disease's progression, directly addressing the question: **What is the relationship between the hippocampus and Alzheimer's disease?**
