Symptoms

The Hallmarks of AD

Alzheimer’s disease disrupts critical metabolic processes that keep neurons healthy. These disruptions cause nerve cells in the brain to stop working, lose connections with other nerve cells, and finally die. The destruction and death of nerve cells causes the memory failure, personality changes, problems in carrying out daily activities, and other features of the disease.

Alzheimer’s disease is an irreversible, progressive brain disease that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, and eventually even the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. In most people with Alzheimer’s, symptoms first appear after age 60. Estimates vary, but experts suggest that as many as 5.1 million Americans may have Alzheimer’s disease.

An essential primer on Alzheimer’s disease, this 80-page publication describes how the brain works and how it changes with age in healthy people and people with Alzheimer’s. Research on causes, diagnosis, prevention, potential treatments, and caregiver support is summarized. Look for full-color illustrations, a glossary, and a list of resources.

What To Do When You Have Trouble Remembering

Learn the difference between mild forgetfulness and more serious memory problems in this 24-page booklet. Also discussed are various causes of memory problems and how to get help for serious memory loss.

This 19-page easy-to-read booklet describes what happens when someone has Alzheimer’s disease and how it differs from normal aging. Read about when to see the doctor, possible treatments, and how patients and caregivers can get help.

Many people worry about becoming forgetful. They think forgetfulness is the first sign of Alzheimer's disease. Over the past few years, scientists have learned a lot about memory and why some kinds of memory problems are serious but others are not.