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\nScientists do not yet fully understand what causes Alzheimer\u2019s disease. There likely is not a single cause but rather several factors that can affect each person differently.
\nWatch this video \u201cMemory Loss is Not a Normal Part of Aging\u201d
\nAlzheimer\u2019s disease is not a normal part of aging. Memory problems are typically one of the first warning signs of Alzheimer\u2019s disease and related dementias.
\nIn addition to memory problems, someone with symptoms of Alzheimer\u2019s disease may experience one or more of the following:
\nEven if you or someone you know has several or even most of these signs, it doesn\u2019t mean it\u2019s Alzheimer\u2019s disease. Know the 10 warning signs (also available in Spanish).
\nGetting checked by your healthcare provider can help determine if the symptoms you are experiencing are related to Alzheimer\u2019s disease, or a more treatable conditions such as a vitamin deficiency or a side effect from medication. Early and accurate diagnosis also provides opportunities for you and your family to consider financial planning, develop advance directives, enroll in clinical trials, and anticipate care needs.
\nMedical management can improve quality of life for individuals living with Alzheimer\u2019s disease and for their caregivers. There is currently no known cure for Alzheimer\u2019s disease. Treatment addresses several areas:
\nCurrently, many people living with Alzheimer\u2019s disease are cared for at home by family members. Caregiving can have positive aspects for the caregiver as well as the person being cared for. It may bring personal fulfillment to the caregiver, such as satisfaction from helping a family member or friend, and lead to the development of new skills and improved family relationships.
\nAlthough most people willingly provide care to their loved ones and friends, caring for a person with Alzheimer\u2019s disease at home can be a difficult task and may become overwhelming at times. Each day brings new challenges as the caregiver copes with changing levels of ability and new patterns of behavior. As the disease gets worse, people living with Alzheimer\u2019s disease often need more intensive care.
\nYou can find more information about caring for yourself and access a helpful care planning form.
\nIn 2020, an estimated 5.8 million Americans aged 65 years or older had Alzheimer\u2019s disease.1 This number is projected to nearly triple to 14 million people by 2060.1
\nIn 2010, the costs of treating Alzheimer\u2019s disease were projected to fall between $159 and $215 billion.4 By 2040, these costs are projected to jump to between $379 and more than $500 billion annually.4
\nDeath rates for Alzheimer\u2019s disease are increasing, unlike heart disease and cancer death rates that are on the decline.5 Dementia, including Alzheimer\u2019s disease, has been shown to be under-reported in death certificates and therefore the proportion of older people who die from Alzheimer\u2019s may be considerably higher.6
\nThe science on risk reduction is quickly evolving, and major breakthroughs are within reach. For example, there is growing evidence that people who adopt healthy lifestyle habits \u2014 like regular exercise and blood pressure management \u2014 can lower their risk of dementia. There is growing scientific evidence that healthy behaviors, which have been shown to prevent cancer, diabetes, and heart disease, may also reduce risk for subjective cognitive decline. To learn more about the current state of evidence on dementia risk factors and the implications for public health, please read the following summaries on Cardiovascular Health, Exercise, Diabetes and Obesity, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Tobacco and Alcohol, Diet and Nutrition, Sleep, Sensory Impairment, and Social Engagement or the Compiled Report (includes all reports in this list).
\nAging
\nCDC Healthy Brain Initiative
\nOther Alzheimer\u2019s Disease and Cognitive Health Resources
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