Alzheimer's Disease

Have you noticed memory problems piling up in ways that affect daily life in yourself or someone you love? Do you find yourself struggling to follow a conversation or find the right word, becoming confused in new places, or botching tasks that once came easily? Everyone has these experiences sometimes, but if they frequently happen to you or someone you love, they may be early signs of Alzheimer’s disease.

About 5.4 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease, and estimates suggest it will affect 7.7 million by 2030. Already, it is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. There is no cure, and available treatments alleviate symptoms temporarily at best. But with patience, knowledge, and support, you can better meet the challenges posed by this disease and improve the quality of your life and that of your loved ones.

This Special Health Report includes in-depth information on diagnosing Alzheimer’s and treating its symptoms. Because caring for someone with Alzheimer’s continues to be one of the toughest jobs in the world, the report includes help for family members and caregivers, as well as for the individuals with Alzheimer’s.

Because the disease is progressive, coping with it requires foresight and careful advance planning. People in the early stages of Alzheimer’s often can be partners in that planning, and this comprehensive report can guide you, as well. You’ll find tips for coping with daily routines and challenges, getting financial and legal documents in order, investigating long-term care options, and determining what services are covered by health insurance and Medicare.

Prepared by the editors of Harvard Health Publishing in collaboration with Gad A. Marshall, MD Director of Clinical Trials, Center for Alzheimer Research and Treatment, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital; Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School. 49 pages. (2025)

Warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease

Here are some common warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease. If you or someone you love is experiencing one or more of the following symptoms, talk to a doctor.

Trouble remembering things. At first, only short-term memory may be affected. The individual may forget an appointment or the name of a new acquaintance. They may also forget where they left things, or leave things in odd places (for example, putting shoes in the microwave). Eventually, long-term memory is impaired, and the individual may not recognize family members.

Mood or personality changes. Someone who used to be social and outgoing may become withdrawn. The individual may also become stubborn, distrustful, angry, anxious, or depressed. They may develop symptoms such as loss of interest in a favorite hobby or activity, a change in appetite, insomnia or sleeping too much, lack of energy, and hopelessness.

Trouble completing ordinary tasks. Tasks that once caused no difficulty may become much more challenging. For example, someone may forget how to use a computer, drive a car, or use a tea kettle. Eventually, they may forget how to lock the door, get dressed, or bathe.

Difficulty expressing thoughts. It’s common for people with Alzheimer’s disease to have trouble with language. This typically starts with difficulty finding words. The individual may try describing an object rather than using its name— for example, referring to the telephone as “the ringer” or “that thing I call people with.” Reading or writing may also be impaired in later stages of the disease.

Impaired judgment. People might have trouble making decisions, solving problems, or planning. For example, they may no longer be able to balance a checkbook or pay bills.

Disorientation. We all know what it’s like to be driving and momentarily forget where we’re going. However, those with Alzheimer’s disease may get lost in their own neighborhood. They may also lose track of dates and time.

Unusual behavior. The individual may wander, become agitated, hide things, wear too few or too many clothes, become overly suspicious, engage in unsafe behaviors, or use foul language.

• What is Alzheimer’s disease?
  • Forgetfulness versus dementia
  • Brain regions affected in Alzheimer's
  • Plaques and tangles
• Recognizing the symptoms
  • Stages 1 and 2: Preclinical Alzheimer's disease
  • Stage 3: MCI due to Alzheimer's
  • Stage 4: Mild dementia
  • Stage 5: Moderate dementia
  • Stage 6 Severe dementia
• Risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease
  • Age and sex
  • Family history and genetic factors
  • How can you lower your risk?
• Special Section: 5 healthy habbits that reduce risk
• Is it Alzheimer’s or another dementia?
  • Reversible causes of cognitive imparement
  • Irreversible causes of cognitive imparement
• Diagnosing Alzheimer's disease
  • Finding a physician
  • What to expect during and evaluation
• Medications for Alzheimer's disease
  • Medications for memory and cognitive function
  • Medications for mood and behavior
  • Therapies under investigation
• Caregiving: Day-to-day challenges and beyond
  • What to share with your loved one
  • Coping with daily challenges
  • Decisions about driving
  • Special precautions for wanderers
  • Finding help and support
• Long-term residential care
  • Types of facilities
  • Evaluating long-term care facilities
• Planning ahead: Legal and financial matters
  • Legal decisions
  • Financial matters
• Resources
• Glossary

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