Subtitle: Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia that affects the brain in ways that can impair a person’s memory, thinking, and behavior. The disease is progressive, meaning it gets worse over time.
Although Alzheimer’s typically affects older adults, it can start at any age. The most common age of onset is between 65 and 85 years old. However, early-onset Alzheimer’s occurs in people younger than 65. It is estimated that up to 5 percent of people with Alzheimer’s have early-onset Alzheimer’s.
Late Onset Alzheimer's
Late onset Alzheimer's is the most common form of Alzheimer's and usually occurs in people over the age of 65. This form of the disease is linked to a combination of genetic and lifestyle risk factors. People with a family history of the disease are more likely to develop it, and those who have had a head injury or have diabetes are also at increased risk.
Early Onset Alzheimer's
Early onset Alzheimer's is a rare form of the disease that affects people under the age of 65. People with early onset Alzheimer's typically experience more rapid memory loss and other cognitive changes than those with late onset Alzheimer's. Early onset Alzheimer's is often inherited and is caused by genetic mutations.
Mild Cognitive Impairment
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a form of cognitive decline in which a person has difficulty remembering and focusing on tasks. It is sometimes referred to as "pre-Alzheimer's" because it can be an early warning sign of Alzheimer's disease. People with MCI are at greater risk of developing Alzheimer's than those without MCI.
Diagnosis
Alzheimer's disease is typically diagnosed by a neurologist or other physician based on a physical exam, medical history, cognitive testing, and other tests. It is important to diagnose Alzheimer's as early as possible, so that treatment and support can be started as soon as possible.
In summary, Alzheimer's disease can start at any age, but the most common age of onset is between 65 and 85 years old. Early-onset Alzheimer's is a rare form of the disease that affects people under the age of 65 and is typically caused by genetic mutations. Mild cognitive impairment is a form of cognitive decline that can be an early warning sign of Alzheimer's, and is more common in people over the age of 65. A diagnosis of Alzheimer's is based on a physical exam, medical history, cognitive testing, and other tests.