Alzheimer's Disease
Definition
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive disorder that causes brain cells to waste away (degenerate) and die. It's the most common cause of dementia — a continuous decline in thinking, behavioral and social skills that disrupts a person's ability to function independently.
Related terms
Dementia: A general term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia.
Neurodegeneration: The progressive loss of structure or function of neurons, including death of neurons. This process is central to Alzheimer’s disease.
Amyloid plaques: Clumps of protein fragments that accumulate between nerve cells in brains affected by Alzheimer’s disease.
"Alzheimer's Disease" appears in:
Subjects (1)
AP Psychology
Study guides (1)
AP World History: Modern - 9.2 Technological Advances and Limitations after 1900: Disease
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About Us
About Fiveable
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Careers
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Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
CCPA Privacy Policy
Resources
Cram Mode
AP Score Calculators
Study Guides
Practice Quizzes
Glossary
Cram Events
Merch Shop
Crisis Text Line
Help Center
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.