Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease: A Basic Review & Guide

June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Health awareness month. In addition to other awarenesses, It is also Men’s Health month. In this blog, I am going to discuss and give a brief review of Alzheimer’s disease. A disease that ties into men and women health.

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, causing memory loss, cognitive decline, and changes in behavior. Despite its prevalence, many aspects of Alzheimer’s remain misunderstood. This blog delves into the symptoms, causes, and early warning signs, stages of the disease, myths, and the distinction between Alzheimer’s and dementia. By shedding light on these topics, I aim to foster a better understanding and inspire hope.

Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer's is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking and behavior. It’s the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases worldwide. Over time, it leads to a decline in cognitive abilities severe enough to interfere with daily life. The following are some key facts about Alzheimer's:

Prevalence:

Over 6 million people in the U.S. live with Alzheimer's and this number is projected to rise as the population ages.

Risk Factors:

While age is the biggest risk factor, genetics, lifestyle, and overall health also play a role.

No Cure Yet:

There’s no cure, but treatments and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Warning Signs:

Memory loss, confusion, difficulty with familiar tasks, and changes in mood or personality may signal early stages.

Prevention Matters:

A healthy lifestyle such as a regular exercise, a balanced diet, and mental stimulation may help reduce risk.

Symptoms, Causes, and Early Warning Signs

I’m learning that understanding the symptoms of Alzheimer’s is the first step to offering support and seeking early help. While everyone may forget things occasionally, Alzheimer’s involves persistent and worsening symptoms over time. In order to make a positive change, we must try to understand and learn the signs and symptoms of this disease. Alzheimer’s disease primarily affects the brain, leading to a decline in cognitive abilities and memory. Some of the common symptoms include:

• Memory Loss: Forgetting recently learned information, important dates, or events. Asking the same questions repeatedly.

• Difficulty Performing Familiar Tasks: Challenges in completing daily routines, such as cooking or managing finances.

• Confusion with Time and Place: Losing track of dates or becoming disoriented in familiar environments.

• Language Issues: Difficulty finding the right words or following a conversation.

• Mood Changes: Unexplained shifts in moods, personality, or withdrawal from activities and social events.

• Misplacing items: Pacing things in unusual spots and being unable to retrace steps to find them.

The exact cause of Alzheimer’s remains unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. The accumulation of plaques (amyloid-beta) and tangles (tau protein) in the brain disrupts cell function, ultimately leading to cell death.

Understanding the Stages of Alzheimer's

Something that I learned and didn’t know is that Alzheimer's progresses through several stages, each with its own challenges and milestones. I had no idea that there were stages to this disease. I want to share these stages in hopes to reach others who are unaware as well. Knowing what to expect can help families provide better care and understanding. The stages of Alzheimer's are listed below:

Mild (Early Stage):

• Subtle memory issues, like forgetting names or recent events

• Difficulty planning or organizing

• Individuals may still live independently but need extra support for complex task

  
  

Moderate (Middle Stage):

• Increased confusion and memory gaps.

• Challenges with daily activities, like dressing or cooking.

• Changes in mood, behavior, or sleep patterns.

• Greater need for hands-on care and supervision.

  
  

Severe (Late Stage):

• Significant memory loss and communication difficulties.

• Physical symptoms like difficulty walking or swallowing.

• Individuals require full-time care and support for basic needs

  
  

Understanding these stages helps caregivers and families prepare for changes and ensure compassionate care.

Debunking Common Myths About Alzheimer’s Disease

There’s a lot of misinformation about Alzheimer's and understanding the facts can help us better support those affected. Applied knowledge is power, and by challenging misconceptions, we empower ourselves to support loved ones and advocate for change. Together, we can create a more understanding an compassionate world while paving the way for advancements in treatment and care. Let’s clear up two common myths:

• Myth 1: Alzheimer’s is a normal part of aging. Fact: While aging increases the risk, Alzheimer’s is not an inevitable consequence of growing older. It is a specific disease that affects brain function.

  
  

• Myth 2: Only older people get Alzheimer’s. Fact: Though most cases occur in those over 65, early-onset Alzheimer’s can affect individuals in their 40s or 50s.

  
  

Dispelling these myths is crucial for fostering awareness and encouraging early diagnosis.

The Difference Between Alzheimer’s and Dementia: Clarified

 

Many people use the terms “Alzheimer’s” and “dementia” interchangeably, but they are not the same. I must admit that I was one of those people who did this. I thought they were one and the same until I started learning more. Understanding the difference can help us better support those affected.

Dementia

• Dementia is an umbrella term for a range of symptoms affecting cognitive function, such as memory loss and impaired reasoning.

• It can be caused by various conditions, such as Alzheimer's, vascular dementia, or Parkinson’s disease.

• Dementia is a syndrome, not a specific disease.

  
  

Alzheimer’s Disease

• Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases.

• It’s a progressive brain disease characterized by memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with daily activities.

• Alzheimer’s involves specific changes in the brain, such as plaques and tangles.

• Understanding this distinction helps in accurately describing symptoms and seeking appropriate care.

There Is Always Hope

While Alzheimer’s disease presents significant challenges and is a daunting journey, there is hope. Advances in research are uncovering new treatments and preventive strategies. Additionally, the strength and resilience of those affected, along with the unwavering support of caregivers and loved ones, remind us of the power of compassion and community.

Together, by spreading awareness and supporting research, we can bring hope to millions and work toward a future where these conditions are better understood and eventually overcome.

-Daphne Oh

Kay Bea Presents

"Same World, Different Perspective

References

1. Alzheimer’s Association. (2025). What is Alzheimer’s? Retrieved from www.alz.org

2. National Institute on Aging. (2025). Alzheimer’s Disease Fact Sheet. Retrieved from www.nia.nih.gov

3. Mayo Clinic. (2025). Alzheimer’s Disease. Retrieved from www.mayoclinic.org