Alzheimer's Disease Resources

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and the ability to carry out daily tasks. It is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60–80% of all cases.¹  

Dementia is a general term for a decline in cognitive function — such as memory and reasoning — severe enough to interfere with daily life.¹ It can result from various conditions, including mild cognitive impairment, Parkinson’s disease, vascular problems, and brain injuries. While the terms Alzheimer’s and dementia are often used interchangeably, they are not the same thing: dementia describes symptoms, while Alzheimer’s is a specific disease that causes them.²

Alzheimer’s typically affects adults over 65, but early-onset Alzheimer’s can appear as early as the mid-40s.³ Over time, it causes damage to brain cells, leading to worsening symptoms such as memory loss, confusion, and personality changes.

To better understand how the brain changes due to Alzheimer’s, watch this video from the National Institute on Aging.

Warning signs of Alzheimer’s may affect everyone differently. Some of the most common warning signs of Alzheimer’s are noticeable changes in memory, thinking, and behavior. While forgetfulness can be a regular part of aging, Alzheimer’s symptoms are more pronounced.  

Common warning signs include:

• Finding it hard to remember things
• Forgetting new information
• Asking the same questions repeatedly
• Difficulty completing daily tasks, including personal care or hygiene
• Trouble keeping up with bills
• Getting lost
• Not remembering how you got somewhere
• Being confused about time, people, or places
• Changes in mood and personality  

Visit the Alzheimer’s Association to learn more about the signs and symptoms.

While tremendous progress has been made, scientists don’t yet fully understand what causes Alzheimer’s disease in most people. It likely involves a combination of age-related changes in the brain, along with genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors, which may differ from person to person.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms, talk to a provider to determine whether they’re caused by Alzheimer’s or something else. Doctors use several methods and tools to help determine whether a person has Alzheimer’s, including:⁴

• Conversations with family or friends to understand behavioral changes and memory loss
• Cognitive tests to assess memory, thinking skills, and ability to perform everyday activities  
• Lab tests or brain imaging to rule out other conditions like stroke or tumors
• Referral to a neuropsychologist for detailed assessments, if needed 

There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease. However, researchers are working to develop treatment options for those suffering from Alzheimer’s.  

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved medications such as donepezil and memantine that may help improve cognitive function and the ability to perform activities of daily life.⁵ Both drugs are generally well-tolerated, when used appropriately under medical supervision.

More recently, new treatment options have become available. These options include antibody infusions, that may slow disease progression if they are started early in the course of the disease, and other drugs, that generally mask existing symptoms. Many newer treatment options have been linked to serious side effects, so it is important that you discuss medication choices and risks with your healthcare team.

In addition, healthy lifestyle choices may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline — and may even help slow progression in the early stages of Alzheimer’s:⁶  

• Eat a nutritious diet 
• Stay physically active
• Keep your brain engaged with mentally stimulating activities
• Stay socially connected
• Manage high blood pressure