Alzheimer’s
A practical, research-informed overview of Alzheimer’s and brain health.
Understanding Alzheimer’s disease and dementia
Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. Over time, symptoms can become severe enough to interfere with daily life.
Dementia is an umbrella term for cognitive and memory changes that disrupt everyday function. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for an estimated 60–80% of cases.
Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging. Age is the strongest risk factor, and most people diagnosed are 65 or older. When Alzheimer’s occurs before age 65, it is often called younger-onset (or early-onset) Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, meaning symptoms worsen over time. Early stages may involve mild memory problems, while later stages can affect communication and a person’s ability to engage with their surroundings. Life expectancy after diagnosis varies widely—often 4 to 8 years, though some people live longer, depending on individual factors.
There is currently no cure, but treatment can help. Some medications may slow cognitive and functional decline for certain individuals, and other approaches can help manage symptoms and support quality of life—for both people living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.
BHI Faculty Member Dr. Luciano D’Adamio Secures $2.5M NIH STTR Grant for Alzheimer’s Research with NanoNewron
The grant supports a translational collaboration focused on accelerating therapeutic progress in Alzheimer’s disease.
Alzheimer’s News and Research Updates
Frequently Asked Qestions
-
Alzheimer’s is a brain disease that slowly affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It’s the most common cause of dementia, but it’s not a normal part of aging. Early help can make a big difference in managing it.
-
Dementia is a general term for cognitive decline (memory loss and confusion) that interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s is a specific progressive brain disease, and the most common cause is dementia (60-80% of cases), characterized by brain plaques/tangles.
-
Early signs often include forgetting recent events, repeating questions, trouble planning tasks, or getting confused about time/place – but only when they disrupt daily life. Many forgetful moments are normal aging (like misplacing keys but finding them later). If several signs appear and worsen, see a doctor, it’s smart to check, and many causes are treatable.
-
Most cases are not directly inherited. Family history raises risk slightly for some people, but rare early-onset forms (before 65) can be genetic. Lifestyle and other factors play a big role too.
-
Yes! Stay active physically and mentally, eat heart-healthy foods, manage blood pressure/diabetes, stay socially connected, and get good sleep. These steps support brain
This is general information, not medical advice. Talk to a doctor for personal concerns. For free help: Alzheimer’s Association Helpline 800-272-3900 or alz.org.
Explore our latest Alzheimer’s videos.
More Brain Health Insights
Explore more Insights for clear, research-informed information across brain health and neuroscience—designed to help you learn, make sense of the science, and take the next step.
