5 Things you Need to Know about Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's is an insidious disease. And it's not just about losing your memory.

It overtakes your brain and its functions robbing you of your health, and your identity...it virtually steals your soul.

Sufferers gradually lose their ability to learn, reason, make decisions, communicate and perform daily activities.

 Alzheimer's is the most common form of dementia and there is no known cure.

Here are 5 compelling facts you need to know about Alzheimer's disease:

1. Alzheimer's is an epidemic. The Alzheimer's Association estimates that there are 5.3 million Americans living with Alzheimer's today. That translates into a new case every 70 seconds. And as America continues to get older, that rate will balloon to one case every 33 seconds by 2050.   
2. Normal Aging vs. Alzheimer's Disease. Not remembering where you put your car keys is a sign of old age. Forgetting what to do with those car keys could mean something more serious. Memory lapses are a typical part of aging. Alzheimer's sufferers, however, experience more bouts of forgetfulness than normal people over 60 years of age. They also have difficulty retaining new information and recalling the names of familiar objects.    
3. Alzheimer's disease is more than lost memories. Forgetfulness is a hallmark symptom, but the disease cuts deeper. Your body actually forgets how to function. In fact, Alzheimer's disease causes death, as its progression eventually prevents the individual from moving or even swallowing.    
4. Alzheimer's changes a person. Alzheimer's disease can result in behavioral symptoms such as agitation, suspiciousness, combativeness, repetition, and wandering. The symptoms are caused by damage to the brain and are not something that can be controlled or prevented.    
5. It's not just the elderly. Individuals in their 40s and 50s can also be afflicted with Alzheimer's. This is called early onset Alzheimer's disease. While early onset AD accounts for only five to 10 percent of all instances, progression is faster and seems to occur within families.

So what can you do about this incurable wrath?

The good news is that Alzheimer's MAY be prevented or delayed. Research shows that getting plenty of physical exercise, eating a heart-healthy diet, keeping the mind active, and staying connected with family and friends are good for the brain and may help prevent or delay Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.

If you suspect you or a loved one is developing early signs of Alzheimer's disease, please see a physician immediately. Don't delay. Early diagnosis is the first step to better health care.

It's another step to ensuring you live a happier and healthier life.