Which of the following best describes Alzheimer's disease?

• A. A psychotic disorder involving hallucinations and delusions
• B. A mood disorder marked by periods of depression and mania
• C. An anxiety disorder characterized by excessive worry and fear
• D. A progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by memory loss, cognitive decline, and changes in behavior

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the nature of Alzheimer's disease by reviewing its key characteristics, which include memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes.
2. Step 2: Differentiate Alzheimer's disease from other psychological disorders by identifying that it is not primarily a psychotic disorder (which involves hallucinations and delusions).
3. Step 3: Recognize that Alzheimer's disease is not a mood disorder, which typically involves episodes of depression and mania, nor is it an anxiety disorder characterized by excessive worry and fear.
4. Step 4: Identify Alzheimer's disease as a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, meaning it worsens over time due to the degeneration of brain cells.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best description of Alzheimer's disease is 'a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by memory loss, cognitive decline, and changes in behavior.'