Overview Alzheimer s disease
While some changes in memory and thinking are a normal part of aging, Alzheimer's is not.
Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia.
Dementia is a general term for the loss of memory, problem-solving and thinking abilities that interferes with daily life.Progressive, meaning that it develops gradually over time. It begins with mild memory loss and can lead to the inability to carry on a conversation, carry out daily activities, or respond to the environment.
Younger people can get Alzheimer's disease, but it is less common. In some cases, early signs can appear as early as the mid-40s. This is known as early-onset Alzheimer's disease.
Did you know? The number of people living with Alzheimer's is projected to double from 6.9 million in 2020 to nearly 14 million people by 2060.[9] The burden of Alzheimer s disease in the United States
Alzheimer's disease is a top 10 leading cause of death in the United States.[8] In 2022, it was the:
7th leading cause of death among U.S. adults.[8]The actual number of older people who die from Alzheimer's may be much higher than what is officially recorded. Alzheimer's and other types of dementia are not always reported on death certificates.[7]
CausesWe do not yet fully understand what causes Alzheimer's disease. There likely is not one single factor, but rather a combination of factors that cause the disease. These factors, which may affect each person differently, include:
Genes.Signs and symptoms Symptoms of Alzheimer s disease
In addition to memory problems, someone with Alzheimer's disease may experience one or more of these problems:
Memory loss that disrupts daily life.Even if you or someone you know has several of these signs, it does NOT mean it's Alzheimer's disease.
Learn more about the 10 warning signs and consult your health care provider.
Low Resolution Video Low Resolution Video What to do if you think you might have Alzheimer s
Talk to your health care provider to see if your symptoms are related to Alzheimer s disease or a more treatable condition.
Early and accurate diagnosis may help slow the disease and help some symptoms. Early diagnosis also allows you and your family to consider:
Treatment options.Risk factors Risk reduction
Research suggests that people who adopt healthy lifestyle habits can lower the risk of memory loss or slow it down. These habits include staying physically active and keeping your heart healthy.
Treatment for Alzheimer s disease
There is no known cure for Alzheimer's disease at this time. But getting proper medical care and treatment can improve the quality of life for people living with Alzheimer's.
Treatment can:
Help people maintain brain health.Treatment of Alzheimer s depends on the underlying cause and the progression of the disease.
Prescription drugs have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These drugs:
Temporarily ease some symptoms.Medications don t work for everyone, and they may lose effectiveness over time.
Interested in learning more? Check out additional resources below. Signs and Symptoms of Dementia Learn what early signs and symptoms of dementia to look out for. Aug. 14, 2024
Reducing Risk for Dementia Learn what lifestyle behaviors can reduce the risk of developing dementia. Aug. 27, 2024
Caregiving Find information about caregiving, self-care, and Care Plan creation. Sept. 3, 2024
SourcesStokes AC, Weiss J, Lundberg DJ, et al. Estimates of the association of dementia with US mortality levels using linked survey and mortality records. JAMA Neurol. 2020;77(12):1543-1550. https://www.doi.org/10.1001/jamaneurol.2020.2831 CDC WONDER. 2022 15 Leading Causes of Death. Underlying Cause of Death, 2018-2022. https://wonder.cdc.gov/Deaths-by-Underlying-Cause.html 2024 Alzheimer's disease facts and figures. Alzheimers Dement. 2024;20(5):3708-3821. https://www.doi.org/10.1002/alz.13809
Dementia is not a specific disease. It is a general term for having trouble remembering, thinking, or making decisions that affect everyday activities.
View All