Learn about Alzheimer’s disease, its symptoms, causes, and ways to support patients and caregivers to maintain quality of life.
What is Alzheimer’s disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that causes brain atrophy and neuron death. It is the most common cause of dementia, leading to gradual decline in memory, thinking, behavior, and social skills, affecting daily independence.
Globally, out of nearly 50 million people with dementia, 60–70% have Alzheimer’s disease. In the U.S., around 5.8 million people aged 65+ live with Alzheimer’s, with 80% being 75 or older.
Early signs include forgetting recent events or conversations. As the disease progresses, severe memory loss develops, making everyday tasks increasingly difficult. While medications can slow symptoms or improve function temporarily, there is currently no cure.
Learn more about dementia and brain health strategies.
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease
Common Alzheimer’s disease symptoms you should know
Early stage: Mild memory loss, difficulty recalling recent events, occasional confusion, trouble organizing thoughts.
Middle stage: Increased memory impairments, difficulty with daily tasks, disorientation, mood and behavior changes.
Late stage: Severe memory loss, loss of ability to communicate, dependence on caregivers, complications like dehydration or infections.
See full guide on dementia symptoms for additional details.
Causes of Alzheimer’s disease
Alzheimer’s is caused by a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Abnormal brain proteins disrupt neuron function, leading to cell damage and death. Neuron loss starts in memory-related brain regions and gradually spreads. Rare genetic mutations can cause early-onset Alzheimer’s, usually in middle age.
Learn more about genetic risk factors and Alzheimer’s.
Managing risk and supporting brain health
Tips to maintain brain health for Alzheimer’s disease
While Alzheimer’s cannot be prevented, lifestyle choices may reduce risk or slow progression:
Exercise regularly to support cardiovascular and brain health.
Healthy diet: Emphasize fresh produce, healthy oils, and low-saturated-fat foods (e.g., Mediterranean diet).
Manage chronic conditions: Control blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol.
Quit smoking with medical support.
Engage your brain and socialize: Reading, dancing, board games, art, music, and social activities help maintain cognitive skills.
More brain health tips to improve quality of life.
Advice for caregivers
How caregivers can support Alzheimer’s disease patients
Provide structured routines and a safe environment.
Encourage cognitive activities and social interaction.
Monitor physical health and nutrition.
Offer emotional support and seek professional guidance for behavioral or psychological symptoms.
Learn caregiver strategies for dementia and Alzheimer’s care.
Alzheimer’s disease requires early detection, proper care, and support to help patients maintain independence and quality of life for as long as possible. Following lifestyle tips and providing structured care can improve outcomes and slow symptom progression.
