Alzheimer’s Disease

What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s Disease is a progressive, degenerative brain disorder and the most common cause of dementia. It accounts for approximately 60 – 80% of all dementia cases. The disease affects areas of the brain responsible for memory, thinking, communications and behavior. Changes in the brain begin at a microscopic level years before any visible symptoms appear.

Who is Affected?

Alzheimer’s Disease most often impacts adults aged 65 and older. But it can impact younger individuals as well. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 6.7 million people in the United States are currently living with Alzheimer’s Disease, but that is expected to almost triple by 2060.

When Alzheimer’s Disease is diagnosed prior to age 65, it is commonly referred to as Early-Onset or Younger-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease. This form is rare, and it is most often diagnosed in people in their 40s and 50s.

What Are the Causes and Risk Factors?

The exact cause of Alzheimer’s Disease is not fully understood. Research indicates that it comes from a combination of genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors that impact the brain over time.

Not-Controllable Risk Factors

• Age (65+)
• Family history of Alzheimer’s Disease
• Genetic changes linked to Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease

Controllable Risk Factors

• High Blood Pressure 
• Poor cardiovascular health
• Lack of physical activity
• Smoking
• Uncontrolled diabetes

Who is Most at Risk?

• Individuals aged 65 and older
• Individuals with a family history of Alzheimer’s Disease
• Those with genetic factors associated with Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease
• Individuals with heart and vascular problems

What Can You Do to Reduce Your Risk?

There is no way to fully prevent Alzheimer’s Disease, but choosing heart-healthy behaviors may reduce risk or delay the start of symptoms. Healthy lifestyle behaviors would include:

• Manage blood pressure and other chronic conditions
• Stay physically active
• Maintain heart-healthy diet
• Stop or don’t start smoking
• Stay mentally and socially engaged and active

What are the Signs & Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease?

The symptoms may vary, and they usually develop gradually and worsen over time.

• Memory loss that disrupts daily life
• Forgetting important dates, events or conversations
• Difficulty solving problems or completing familiar tasks
• Trouble finding the right words when speaking or writing
• Vision changes or difficulty judging distance
• Poor judgement or decision making
• Changes in mood, personality or behavior
• Difficulty retracing steps or becoming disoriented

Are there Unique Signs in Certain Groups?

While the symptoms of Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease are similar to those experienced by older adults, younger individuals may initially blame changes on stress, depression or other factors.

How is Alzheimer’s Disease Diagnosed?

There is no single test to diagnose Alzheimer’s Disease. The diagnostic process involves a thorough assessment of symptoms as well as tests to rule out other potential causes. The process can include:

• Neurological exam
• Memory & cognition assessments
• Diagnostic imaging of the brain
• Lab tests (blood tests)

How is Alzheimer’s Disease Treated?

There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s Disease. The available treatments are used to help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.

Lifestyle

• Routines
• Staying physically and socially active
• Creating a safe and supportive environment

Devices

• Memory aids and safety devices to support activities of daily living

Medical

• Medications to help slow cognitive decline
• Medications to help manage mood or behavioral symptoms

Surgical

• There are no surgical treatments.

Other

• Support programs for patients and caregivers
• Education and counselling

When to See Your Doctor

You should talk to your doctor if you or your loved one experiences persistent memory problems, confusion, personality changes or difficulty performing everyday tasks.

When to Seek Emergency Medical Care

Seek emergency medical care if symptoms appear suddenly or worsen rapidly, especially if they include severe confusion, sudden behavior changes or other neurological symptoms as it may indicate another urgent medical condition, such as a stroke.

What Should You Do Next?

If you are concerned about changes in memory or thinking, talk to your primary care provider. Early evaluation can help identify the cause and allow for appropriate treatment and planning.

To learn more and connect with support, visit Riverside Health’s Martha W. Goodson Center or connect with the Alzheimer’s Association.