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According to the World Health Organization, Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia, and may cause 60 to 70% of cases. While there is no cure, prompt diagnosis of the condition can make it more manageable, especially in its early stages. Indeed, much can be offered to support and improve the lives of people living with Alzheimer's and their carers and families.

Alzheimer's disease is usually diagnosed by a doctor based on the symptoms exhibited by the patient, such as forgetfulness and losing track of time. However, a new blood test that looks for proteins associated with the disease has been diagnosing with 91% accuracy in those experiencing mild symptoms. The test hasn't yet been approved for routine clinical use but the initial results are very promising. The early detection of Alzheimer's is essential for the best outlook.

Check out this gallery to understand more about the disease and the many ways it affects the sufferer.

▲Alzheimer's disease is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that usually starts slowly and worsens over time. It most often begins in people over 65.

▲According to the WHO, Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60% to 70% of cases worldwide.

▲Estimates published by the WHO indicate that around 47 million people worldwide are currently suffering the condition, with 10 million new cases recorded every year.

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The condition mostly affects the elderly, and early indications include forgetfulness, losing track of time, and becoming lost in familiar places.

▲The earlier the disease is diagnosed, the greater the chances of reducing its progress. Recognizing the symptoms is key in managing the condition.

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Alzheimer's is a physical disease that affects the brain. Proteins build up in the brain to form structures called "plaques" and "tangles." This leads to the loss of connections between nerve cells, and eventually to the death of nerve cells and loss of brain tissue.

▲In the United States, the disease is the fourth biggest killer of people aged between 75 and 80 years of age, behind only heart attack, stroke, and cancer.

▲The specific causes of the disease are still unknown, but those who have suffered severe head trauma appear to have a greater risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

▲It is also accepted that genetic differences are responsible for 1-5% of cases.

▲Others factors that could influence the onset of Alzheimer's include cumulative aluminum exposure, infections of the brain and spinal cord, and neurochemical imbalance.

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The most noticeable deficit is short-term memory loss, which can impact on work and social relations. Depression and irritability are also early indicators.

▲In time, these behavioral problems adversely affect the suffer's personality. This can have a huge impact on family members and close friends.

▲Symptoms of Alzheimer's disease can sometimes be confused with the general aging process, which can delay treatment. Suffers require round-the-clock care.

▲The preclinical stage of the disease has been termed mild cognitive impairment. This includes subtle problems with attentiveness, planning, abstract thinking, and memory loss.

▲As the disease progresses, the sufferer becomes more forgetful of recent events, people's names, and can even become disoriented in their own home. In addition, behavioral changes become more apparent.

▲The late stage of dementia is one of near total dependence and inactivity. Memory lapses are pronounced and the physical signs and symptoms become more obvious.

▲Late stage Alzheimer's disease is a distressing period for all concerned. Sufferers become unaware of the time and place, and experience difficulty in walking.

▲The behavior of those suffering Alzheimer's disease can escalate into aggression.

▲At this stage, the disease can progress rapidly, although to what extent depends on the individual. The Alzheimer's Association indicates that late stages of the disease usually endure for one to five years.

▲After identifying the disease's early symptoms, it is vital to seek professional help as soon as possible, ideally from a neurologist and a geriatrician. The first call should be your family doctor, who can make referrals.

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Often overlooked as general indicators of old age, the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease need to be identified as early as possible and it is vital to seek professional diagnosis immediately.

▲Families of those with the disease need to be aware of the symptoms of Alzheimer's and should also consider the fact that many sufferers are reluctant to admit their condition, either through lack of awareness or shame.

▲There is no cure for Alzheimer's, but the disease can be managed effectively with the administration of some prescribed drugs and long-term care.

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Approved medications are not a cure for Alzheimer's. While they can help inhibit its progression, ultimately the benefits wear off.

▲Herbal remedies, dietary supplements, and medical foods are promoted as memory enhancers or treatments to delay or prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Some sufferers have turned to these products.

▲Negative behavioral traits such confusion, aggression, and depression associated with the condition can be alleviated through the administration of some of these remedies. Neuroleptics can also be taken, and sufferers can benefit from therapy.

▲Drug and non-drug treatments may help with both cognitive and behavioral symptoms, but expert medical advice should always be sought beforehand.

▲Drugs may be of benefit during the early stages of the disease, but their potency is limited and will in time prove ineffective.

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Caring for someone with Alzheimer's can be frustrating, saddening, and difficult. It is important that family members and friends take time for themselves to ensure that they can be a loving carer as much as possible.

Sources: (WHO) (Alzheimer's Association)