Eventually the loss can become severe enough to interfere with everyday life. And the number of people affected by Alzheimer's is on the rise. The American Medical Association says that Alzheimer's disease or some related form of dementia affects 5 percent to 6 percent of all older Americans. According to the American Academy of Neurology, over four million Americans now have Alzheimer s disease, and that number may climb to at least seven million by the early part of this century unless researchers find a cure or a way to prevent the disease. Alzheimer's We don't really know what causes Alzheimer's, though there are several apparent things that may increase your risk.
Age is another.
Although Alzheimer's can strike people as young as 30, the vast majority of people with the disease are over age 65. Alzheimer's starts gradually in most cases. Initially, a person may forget recent events or have problems doing everyday things. If a loved one starts to show signs of impaired mental functioning or dementia, it's important to seek medical help. Remember too, that while Alzheimer's is the leading cause of dementia in seniors, other conditions can result in similar symptoms.