Final answer:
Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive nerve cell function loss due to neuronal death, often manifested as cognitive decline and memory loss.
Step-by-step explanation:
Alzheimer's disease is best described as a neurodegenerative disorder. It is characterized by the progressive loss of nerve cell function and eventual neuronal death leading to cognitive decline and memory issues. This condition is marked by the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques and is known to worsen over time. Alzheimer's is one of many neurodegenerative disorders, which also include Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, among others.
The precise causes of Alzheimer's disease are not fully understood, but the disease's link to protein malfunctions is a strong area of study. Common symptoms related to the death of neurons in different parts of the nervous system include balance and walking problems in spinocerebellar ataxia, or memory deficits associated with Alzheimer's disease.