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Many people think of Alzheimer’s disease as something that happens to older people. Unfortunately, that’s not the truth.

Younger Onset Alzheimer’s affects people under the age of 65. Many of these people are in their 40s and 50s.Younger Onset can manifest itself in any of the three stages of Alzheimer’s disease: early, middle or late.

Most people living with Younger Onset have what’s called sporadic Alzheimer’s, the most common form of the disease.

The reason why most cases of Younger Onset appear at a relatively young age are not well understood. Likewise, getting an accurate diagnosis can be very frustrating. The disease affects individuals differently and symptoms can vary from person to person.  It’s important that if you are experiencing memory problems that you get a comprehensive medical evaluation with a physician specializing in Alzheimer’s. If you’re not sure of who that may be, contact your local Alzheimer’s Association for a referral or call our 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-272-3900.

The sooner you have an accurate diagnosis, the sooner you can begin planning what you can do to ease the impact on you and your family throughout the course of the disease.
Meanwhile, you can always get the latest information about the Association’s COVID-19 guidelines for Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers in long-term or community-based care settings here:

https://alz.org/professionals/professional-providers/coronavirus-covid-19-tips-for-dementia-caregivers

 

Scott Finley is a media relations manager for the Alzheimer’s Association®.  He can be reached at scfinley@alz.org