Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disease that destroys memory and thinking skills. Alzheimer’s disease can be treated, but as yet there is no cure. As the disease advances, people may experience increasing confusion and be unable to recognize members of their family. They may even forget their own names. In the later stages of the disease, people with Alzheimer’s may be unable to perform the basic tasks of self-care. Rates of Alzheimer’s are expected to increase dramatically as the U.S. population rises, posing serious challenges to health care providers, families, and society. (Opposing Viewpoints)