Explanation Alzheimer's disease was first described by Alois Alzheimer in 1907. He studied brain tissue from patients dying of dementia. The cause of the disease, that renders memory and thought process of the brain dysfunctional, is not clear. Scientists have proposed two hypotheses. The first hypothesis suggests that nerve cells in the brain are killed from outside to inside progressively. An external protein called beta amyloid peptide kills nerve cells. An abnormal form of Beta amyloid peptide is produced that forms plaques and then fill the brain resulting in damage and death of the nerve cells. The second hypothesis suggests that nerve cells are killed by an abnormal form of an internal protein called Tau. Abnormal form of the protein Tau forms tangles inside the brain causing malfunction of the nerve cells. It is not known whether tangles and plaques are the cause or the effects of the disease. Scientists have been able to identify genes that increase the likelihood of development of the disease. The disease tends to run in families. Evidence also suggests that high levels of Aluminium may trigger the onset of the disease. The disease affects equally men and women of all races. Most individuals diagnosed with the disease are above the age of 60 years. It is estimated that 10% of the population above 65 years of age and 50% of the population above 85 years of age suffer from the disease. The warning signs of the disease includes: Recent memory loss Difficulty in performing day-to-day chores Difficulty in dressing oneself Not able to remember names and simple words Not able to learn new information Using inappropriate words in speech Disorientation of time and place Misplacing objects frequently Frequently expressing irritation and anger Increased confusion, restlessness and depression There is no simple test to confirm the disease. It is difficult to diagnose the disease as the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease matches that of the diseases that cause dementia. Physicians usually carry out a battery of diagnostic tests to rule out diseases such as Parkinson's disease, Pick's disease and other related diseases and then arrive to the conclusion that probably the patient is suffering from Alzheimer's disease. This method of diagnosis is usually about 80 % accurate. Post mortem examination of the brain is required to confirm the diagnosis. Nearly 70% of those affected require care in nursing homes. It is physically and physiologically very exacting for persons who look after patients afflicted with Alzheimer's disease. It is essential to provide the patient with a safe environment and regular daily schedule.