Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. It is a progressive disease beginning with mild memory loss, possibly causing loss of the ability to carry on a conversation and respond to the environment. Alzheimer’s disease involves parts of the brain that control thought, memory, and language. It can seriously affect a person’s ability to carry out daily activities.
Scientists do not fully understand what causes Alzheimer’s disease. They believe there are several factors that can affect each person differently. Age is the best-known risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. There is growing evidence that people who adopt healthy lifestyle habits — like regular exercise and blood pressure management — can lower their risk of dementia. Physical activity, a nutritious diet, limited alcohol consumption, and not smoking may also help to lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
In 2020, 5.8 million Americans were living with Alzheimer’s disease. This number is projected to nearly triple to 14 million people by 2060. Symptoms of the disease can first appear after age 60 and the risk increases with age. Younger people may also get Alzheimer’s disease, but it is less common.
Memory problems are usually one of the first signs of Alzheimer’s disease. Other signs in addition to memory problems are:
n Repeating questions.
n Trouble handling money and paying bills.
n Difficulty completing familiar tasks.
n Decreased or poor judgment.
n Misplacing things and being unable to retrace steps to find them.
n Changes in mood, personality, or behavior.
You can find out more about Alzheimer’s disease on the CDC website at cdc.gov/aging/aginginfo/alzheimers.htm.
— Compensation and Benefits,
Human Resources, 6-15-23
