Alzheimer’s Disease: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking and the ability to manage everyday activities. It is the most common cause of dementia and is not a normal part of aging.

Recognizing changes early can help individuals and families seek an evaluation, explore treatment options and plan for future care. National Institute on Aging

What Are the Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease?

Occasional forgetfulness can occur with age. Memory loss that disrupts daily life warrants medical attention.

Common warning signs include:

• Forgetting recent events or repeatedly asking the same questions
• Difficulty planning, solving problems or completing familiar tasks
• Confusion about time or place
• Trouble finding words or following conversations
• Getting lost in familiar surroundings
• Changes in judgment, mood, personality or social engagement

These symptoms can have causes other than Alzheimer’s. A healthcare provider can help determine what is going on. CDC

What Causes Alzheimer’s Disease? 

Researchers do not fully understand what causes Alzheimer’s in most people. Age-related brain changes, genetics, health conditions and lifestyle factors may all contribute.

Older age is the strongest known risk factor. A parent or sibling with Alzheimer’s also increases risk, but family history does not mean someone will inevitably develop the disease. Many people with Alzheimer’s have no known family history. National Institute on Aging

How Does Alzheimer’s Progress?

Brain changes may begin years before symptoms appear. Once symptoms develop, Alzheimer’s is commonly described in three broad stages:

Mild or Early-Stage Alzheimer’s

IMemory and thinking difficulties become more noticeable. A person may struggle to manage money, remember information or complete familiar tasks.

Moderate or Middle-Stage Alzheimer’s

Confusion increases, and the person needs more help with daily activities. Changes in behavior, sleep and recognition of familiar people may occur.

Severe or Late-Stage Alzheimer’s

Communication and physical abilities become significantly impaired. A person may need around-the-clock assistance with personal care, eating, and mobility.

Symptoms and care needs vary from person to person. National Institute on Aging.

How is Alzheimer’s Diagnosed?

An evaluation typically includes a medical and medication history, physical and neurological examinations, and memory and thinking tests.

Providers may also use laboratory tests and brain imaging to investigate other causes of symptoms. Specialized testing may include Alzheimer’s-related blood biomarkers, spinal fluid testing, or PET imaging.

Certain FDA-cleared blood tests can help evaluate people with cognitive symptoms, but they are not substitutes for a complete clinical assessment or for routine screening tests for people without symptoms. National Institute on Aging, FDA.

What Treatments AreAvailable?

There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, but treatment can help manage symptoms and support daily functioning.

Medications such as donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine, and memantine may temporarily improve or stabilize symptoms in some people.

Lecanemab and donanemab are disease-modifying treatments for some people with early Alzheimer’s. They can slow cognitive decline but do not reverse the disease. Eligibility requires careful evaluation, and treatment requires monitoring for potentially serious side effects, including brain swelling or bleeding.

A personalized care plan may also address sleep, mood, behavior and caregiver needs.

Can Alzheimer’s Be Prevented? 

Reducing the chances of developing Alzheimer's disease involves adopting a healthy lifestyle and keeping the brain healthy. 

You can reduce your risk of Alzheimer's disease by following these steps:

Exercise Regularly: 

It is possible to reduce cognitive decline by improving blood flow to the brain with regular physical activity.

Eat a Healthy Diet: 

It is beneficial for the prevention of Alzheimer's disease to eat a balanced diet containing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

Stay Mentally Active: 

A well-engaged brain reduces the risk of cognitive decline by engaging in activities such as reading, solving puzzles, and socializing.

Manage Chronic Conditions: 

Chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

Get Enough Sleep: 

Restful sleep promotes brain health and reduces cognitive decline.

Supporting Someone with Alzheimer’s

Care focuses on safety, comfort, and dignity. Helpful steps include maintaining familiar routines, reducing home hazards, using clear and respectful communication and adjusting assistance as needs change.

Caregivers also need support. Ask about respite care, community resources and help from family or friends. NIA Caregiving Resources.

Concerned About Memory Changes?

You do not have to navigate these concerns alone. Schedule a primary care visit with tru Primary & Urgent Care to discuss memory changes and appropriate next steps.