Alzheimer’s Disease

What is Alzheimer’s disease?

Alzheimer’s is a brain disease that causes memory, thinking, and behavior problems. Worldwide, 55 million people are living with Alzheimer's and other dementias.

Alzheimer's disease was named after the German physician Alois Alzheimer who first described the illness in 1906. Dr. Alzheimer presented the case of “Frau Auguste D.,” a 51-year-old woman brought to see him in 1901 by her family because of memory-related problems.

Alzheimer's is not a normal part of aging. The most significant known risk factor is increasing age; most people with Alzheimer's are 65 and older. Alzheimer’s worsens over time. Alzheimer's is a progressive disease where dementia symptoms gradually worsen over several years.

Ten symptoms

1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life

2. Challenges in planning or solving problems

3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks

4. Confusion with time or place

5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships

6. New problems with words in speaking or writing

7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps

8. Decreased or poor judgment

9. Withdrawal from work or social activities

10. Changes in mood and personality

If you notice any of these symptoms, do not ignore them. Schedule an appointment with your doctor.

​Causes and risk factors

• Age

• Family history

• Genetics (heredity)

• Other risk factors (Head injury, heart disease, diabetes, stroke, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol)

With early detection, you can explore treatments that may relieve some symptoms and help you maintain a level of independence longer, as well as increase your chances of participating in clinical drug trials that help advance research and our understanding of the disease.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved medications that fall into two categories:

1. Drugs that may change disease progression in people living with Alzheimer’s and

2. Drugs that temporarily might mitigate some symptoms of Alzheimer’s.

Can Alzheimer's disease be prevented?

Researchers around the globe are exploring how to prevent Alzheimer's. While Alzheimer's prevention has no definitive answers, research has shown that we can take action to reduce our risk of developing it.

Caregiver stress

Alzheimer's caregivers frequently report experiencing high levels of stress. Taking care of a loved one with Alzheimer's or other dementia can be overwhelming, but too much pressure can harm both of you.

If you have Alzheimer's disease

You can live a meaningful and productive life by taking care of your physical and emotional health, engaging in activities you enjoy, and spending time with family and friends.

Caring for your physical health can improve the quality of your life for years to come. Get regular checkups, take your medication, eat healthy food, exercise daily, rest when tired, and avoid drinking and smoking.