June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, which makes it a good time to talk about something many of us wonder about but don’t always understand: memory loss, dementia, and what happens when the brain starts acting not quite like itself.
Maybe someone you love has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Or maybe you’ve found yourself walking into a room and wondering, “Why did I come in here?”
Whatever your experience or level of knowledge, learning a little more about how our brains work can help us stay sharp and better support others along the way.
Let’s dig in.
So, What Is Alzheimer’s?
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, which is just a broad term for when someone has trouble thinking clearly, remembering things, or making decisions that affect their daily life.
Alzheimer’s isn’t just normal aging or occasional forgetfulness. It’s a brain disease that gets worse over time, slowly affecting memory, language, thinking, and even personality.
Right now, over 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s and most of them are 65 or older. But here’s something a lot of people don’t know: you can get it younger. That’s called younger-onset Alzheimer’s, and it usually shows up between ages 40 and 65.
What Causes It?
There’s no simple answer. While we wish there were, researchers believe Alzheimer’s is related to a mix of things… mostly age, genetics, and lifestyle. Inside the brain, two proteins called plaques (beta-amyloid) and tangles (tau) start to build up. This messes with how brain cells talk to each other, and over time, the cells start to die off.
Certain things can raise your risk, like:
- Getting older
- A family history of Alzheimer’s
- Having specific genes (like APOE-e4)
- Health issues like high blood pressure, obesity, or diabetes
- Lifestyle habits like smoking, poor sleep, or lack of movement
The National Institute on Aging has a great breakdown if you want to dive into more of the science behind it all.
Early Signs to Watch For
We all misplace our glasses or forget a name from time to time… no biggie. But if memory slips start to affect everyday life, it’s worth paying attention.
Here are a few early signs of Alzheimer’s:
- Forgetting things that just happened (like a recent conversation or appointment)
- Repeating the same questions over and over
- Getting lost, even in familiar places
- Trouble finding words or following a conversation
- Putting things in weird spots (like putting your keys in the freezer)
- Mood swings, confusion, or personality changes
If this sounds familiar, don’t panic, but do consider checking in with a healthcare provider, just to be safe.
How Is It Diagnosed?
There’s not a formal “Alzheimer’s test” yet, but doctors use a combination of tools to get a clear picture. This usually includes:
- Asking about medical and family history
- Mental status exams (they might ask you to remember words or draw a clock)
- Brain scans like MRI or CT
- Blood tests to rule out other things
- Neurological exams
It’s super important to catch Alzheimer’s early, if possible. There are more treatment options available when it’s diagnosed sooner rather than later.
Is There a Cure?
Not yet, but scientists are working on it!
That said, there are medications that can help manage symptoms and possibly slow things down. Some commonly used ones include donepezil, rivastigmine, and memantine. And recently, a newer drug called lecanemab (brand name Leqembi) was approved by the FDA.
These treatments aren’t perfect. Still, they’re a step in the right direction.
From a holistic care perspective, people living with Alzheimer’s often benefit from routines, memory tools, exercise, music, and lots of patience. Families and caregivers are the real MVPs here, and they make such a difference.
What’s the Long-Term Outlook?
Alzheimer’s is progressive, meaning it worsens over time. Most people live 4 to 8 years after diagnosis, but some live much longer. Over time, people may need help with daily tasks, like eating, bathing, or dressing.
It’s not easy (on the person or the family), but there are wonderful support groups, memory care programs, and community resources that can make the journey a little easier. Hopscotch Primary Care can help point you in the right direction if you’re looking!
Can It Be Prevented?
We can’t stop Alzheimer’s completely, but we can make choices that support a healthy brain.
According to the CDC’s Healthy Brain Initiative, here are a few brain-boosting habits worth picking up:
- Move your body: Aim for 30 minutes of activity most days
- Eat smart: Think leafy greens, berries, nuts, and fish (the Mediterranean diet is a winner!)
- Get your Zzz’s: Quality sleep is key
- Challenge your brain: Read, do puzzles, learn a new skill
- Stay social: Connect with friends and family often
- Manage your health: Keep blood pressure, sugar, and cholesterol in check
Basically, what’s good for your heart is good for your brain, so take care of both.
In a Nutshell…
Alzheimer’s can be scary, but knowledge is power. Whether you’re concerned about your own memory or caring for someone you love, understanding the signs, the science, and the support options can help you feel more confident and less alone.
During Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, take a moment to check in on your own brain health. Maybe start a new book, go for a walk, or call that friend you’ve been meaning to catch up with. Every little bit counts.
And if you or someone you know needs help, don’t wait—talk to your doctor. At Hopscotch Primary Care, we’re here to listen, guide, and support you every step of the way.