Frequently Asked Questions about Alzheimer's Disease

What is Alzheimer's disease?

Alzheimer's disease is a brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, eventually affecting a person's ability to carry out even simple tasks. It is the most common cause of dementia among older adults, involving changes in the brain including the buildup of abnormal proteins called amyloid plaques and tau tangles. 

How many Americans have Alzheimer's disease?

More than 6 million Americans, most of them age 65 or older, are living with Alzheimer's disease. This number is expected to grow significantly as our population ages.

If my parent has Alzheimer's disease, will I have it too?

Having a parent with Alzheimer's disease does not mean you will definitely develop it. While family history can increase risk, most cases of Alzheimer's don't have a single genetic cause. Both genes and lifestyle factors play important roles in determining risk.

Learn more about genetic risk and Alzheimer's disease (PDF)

What are the early signs of Alzheimer's disease?

Common early signs include:

• Memory loss that disrupts daily life
• Challenges in planning or problem-solving
• Difficulty completing familiar tasks
• Confusion with time or place
• Problems with words in speaking or writing