Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for nearly 70% of all cases worldwide. It progressively damages brain cells responsible for memory, judgment, and reasoning.
What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disorder where brain cells gradually die, leading to shrinkage in critical regions such as the hippocampus and cortex.
The disease typically begins silently—10 to 15 years before noticeable symptoms—and worsens over time, affecting the ability to think, communicate, and perform basic tasks
How Alzheimer’s Develops
Scientists identify two key hallmarks inside the brain:
- β-amyloid plaques – sticky protein deposits that build up between neurons, blocking communication.
- Tau tangles – twisted protein fibers inside neurons, disrupting nutrient transport.
These changes trigger inflammation, oxidative stress, and eventual neuron death
The Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease
| Stage | Description | Symptoms |
| Preclinical | Changes begin silently 10+ years before symptoms | None, but imaging shows amyloid buildup |
| Mild (Early) | Memory lapses, confusion, disorganization | Difficulty managing finances or planning |
| Moderate | Worsening memory, language, and personality | Wandering, sleep disturbance, agitation |
| Severe (Late) | Extensive brain atrophy | Loss of independence and communication |
Early detection allows more effective interventions, support planning, and quality-of-life preservation.
Why It’s Dangerous
Alzheimer’s does not only affect memory—it disrupts the body’s core systems:
- Motor skills decline, increasing fall risk
- Speech and swallowing difficulties, leading to malnutrition
- Weakened immunity, raising infection risk
- Loss of emotional regulation, causing anxiety or aggression
Ultimately, complications such as pneumonia or dehydration can be life-threatening.
According to the World Health Organization (2023), Alzheimer’s is one of the top 10 causes of death worldwide, particularly among the elderly
Who Is at Risk?
Several factors raise Alzheimer’s risk:
- Age: Most cases occur after 65, though early-onset forms can appear in the 40s or 50s.
- Genetics: APOE ε4 gene increases susceptibility.
- Chronic diseases: Diabetes, hypertension, and obesity accelerate brain degeneration.
- Lifestyle factors: Smoking, inactivity, and social isolation impair brain resilience.
Thai research also highlights that urban stress and sleep deprivation contribute to cognitive decline earlier than expected
Diagnosis and Early Warning Signs
Common early indicators include:
- Forgetting recent events or repeating questions
- Difficulty finding words or following conversations
- Misplacing objects or getting lost
- Mood swings or apathy
Diagnosis involves neurological testing, blood work, and MRI/PET brain imaging. EDNA Wellness recommends screening once mild cognitive impairment appears or family members notice behavioral change.
Treatment and Management
There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, but early management can delay decline.
- Medications: Donepezil, galantamine, and memantine support neurotransmission.
- Lifestyle: Balanced diet, regular exercise, social activity, and good sleep.
- Regenerative medicine: Emerging studies on stem cells show potential to reduce inflammation and protect remaining neurons.
- Caregiver support: Training and community programs significantly improve patient safety and emotional well-being.
Stem Cell Therapy Research for Alzheimer’s
Recent pre-clinical and early-phase human trials indicate that UC-MSCs can secrete neurotrophic and anti-inflammatory factors that help stabilize brain metabolism (Kim et al., 2022).
EDNA Wellness uses protocols aligned with this global research, ensuring:
- GMP-certified production
- Verified cell counts and viability testing
- Dosage following published safety standards
This regenerative approach aims to support neuronal health and slow cognitive deterioration, complementing—not replacing—medical treatment.
Safety & Ethical Considerations
Patients should stay cautious about clinics promoting unverified or “miracle” Alzheimer’s cures.
Before proceeding with any advanced therapy:
- Verify the doctor’s qualifications in neurology or regenerative medicine
- Request written documentation of lab certification and dosage
- Confirm treatment is monitored and evidence-based
EDNA Wellness promotes transparency, research compliance, and long-term patient monitoring.
How Families Can Help
Caring for an Alzheimer’s patient requires patience and understanding. Families can:
- Establish structured routines and reminders
- Use visual cues or simple instructions
- Maintain emotional support and calm communication
- Encourage safe physical activity and social interaction
Family participation greatly improves outcomes and preserves dignity throughout the disease.
Alzheimer’s is not merely a memory problem—it’s a progressive brain disease affecting every aspect of life. Early recognition, holistic care, and evidence-based therapies are essential to slow its impact.
About EDNA Wellness
EDNA Wellness is a private clinic specializing in Stem Cell Therapy in Bangkok, Thailand for Neurology & Stroke as well as Bones & Joints. Beyond rehabilitation, we also provide aesthetic and wellness treatments to support your full-body vitality. All delivered with expert care and compassion
For more information or inquiries, contact us via
LINE @ednawellness
WhatsApp +66 (0) 64 505 5599
References
- Choi, H., Kim, Y., & Park, S. (2024). Clinical safety and cognitive outcomes after intravenous MSC therapy in mild Alzheimer’s patients. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 16, 135–146.
- Kim, H. J., Lee, M. J., & Oh, S. H. (2022). Mesenchymal stem cell infusion improves cognitive function in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease: A phase I/II study. Stem Cells Translational Medicine, 11(8), 789–798.
- National Institute on Aging. (2024). What is Alzheimer’s disease? U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
- Selkoe, D. J., & Hardy, J. (2023). The amyloid hypothesis of Alzheimer’s disease at 30 years. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 24(3), 150–164.
- World Health Organization. (2023). Global status report on dementia 2023. Geneva: WHO Press.