Alzheimer's is a type of dementia. The term 'Alzheimer' is often confused with a more general form of dementia, but this is not accurate. Alzheimer's disease does involve dementia, but not everyone with dementia has Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's is a degenerative syndrome, meaning it worsens over time. There is a progressive deterioration of bodily functions.
In the brain, proteins called plaques and nodules accumulate, preventing communication between nerve cells, which can affect memory. There is no scientific evidence that these proteins cause Alzheimer's disease. However, when combined with high blood pressure and high cholesterol, the risk of developing this disease increases. The exact cause of this disease remains unknown.