What Everyone Should Know About Alzheimer’s

More than 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, including about 1 in 9 people age 65 and older. While the diagnosis belongs to one person, the effects reach far beyond it, touching families, friends, and caregivers in deeply personal ways. 

 

June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, supporting those impacted, and promoting brain health. Because this disease affects so many people, and because most people will know someone living with it at some point, it is important to understand what it is and how it affects daily life. 

 

“Alzheimer's disease is a condition where people have developed a problem with thinking and memory,” said Dr. Paul Sanford, an internal medicine physician at Aspirus Health.  

 

Alzheimer’s symptoms often begin with memory loss. This can include forgetting recent conversations or asking the same question repeatedly. As the disease progresses, people may experience confusion, difficulty making decisions, trouble finding words, and changes in mood or behavior. Everyday tasks that once felt routine, such as managing finances or following a recipe, can become increasingly difficult. 

 

Often, it is the people closest to someone who notices these changes first. “Usually, the person themselves doesn’t think they have a problem,” Dr. Sanford explained. “They can’t remember that they don’t remember.” 

 

This disease is caused by changes in the brain, including a buildup of abnormal proteins that damage and kill brain cells over time. This leads to memory loss and difficulty with thinking and daily activities. While the exact cause is not fully understood, experts believe a combination of age, genetics, and lifestyle factors all play a role. 

 

There is no guaranteed way to prevent Alzheimer’s, but research shows that healthy habits may help reduce the risk. “Eat your fruits and vegetables, blueberries and nuts, and exercise 30 minutes a day,” Dr. Sanford advised. 

 

Keeping your brain active is also important. “Stay passionate about something,” he said. “Do your daily Wordle or crossword puzzle, work on your stamp collection. Any type of stimulation is good.” 

 

About 80 percent of people with Alzheimer’s are cared for at home. That responsibility can take a toll on families and caregivers, which makes patience and understanding especially important. 

 

“Just be forgiving, compassionate, accepting,” Dr. Sanford said. “Every time your loved one repeats something, just pretend like you are hearing it for the very first time. That’s important.” 

 

If you notice signs of memory loss or concerning changes in a loved one, start by having a supportive conversation and scheduling a visit with their primary care provider. Early evaluation can help identify next steps and provide guidance for both you and your family. To find a compassionate, expert Aspirus provider near you, visit aspirus.org to use the Find a Doctor tool. 

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