Where did I put my keys? Why did I come into this room again? Wait…what was I about to just say?

Sound familiar?

We’ve all had moments like these little lapses in memory, which can come and go. Most of the time they are harmless and part of everyday life. However, when does ordinary forgetfulness cross the line into something more serious? That’s why Alzheimer’s disease awareness becomes so important.

What Is Alzheimer’s Disease? 

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior over time. According to the Centers for Disease Control, it is the most common form of dementia, accounting for the majority of cases seen in older adults. In the United States alone, more than 7 million adults age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and that number is expected to grow as the population ages.

What Are the Early Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease?

Early signs of Alzheimer’s include memory loss that disrupts daily life, confusion with time or place, difficulty completing familiar tasks, and changes in mood or behavior.

While occasional forgetfulness is normal, Alzheimer’s symptoms tend to progress and interfere with daily activities.  

Some common early warning signs include:

• Forgetting recently learned information
• Repeating questions or conversations
• Getting lost in familiar places
• Difficulty completing routine tasks
• Trouble finding the right words
• Changes in judgment or decision making

If you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to talk with a healthcare provider.

What Increases Your Risk of Alzheimer’s?

Alzheimer’s disease is believed to result from a combination of age-related brain changes, genetics, and lifestyle factors.

While there is no single known cause, researchers have identified several key risk factors:

• Age: The most significant risk factor. After age 65, risk increases.
• Family history and genetics
• Heart health conditions (high blood pressure, diabetes)
• Head injury
• Lifestyle factors such as inactivity or poor diet

In most cases, Alzheimer’s develops due to a combination of these factors, not one single cause.

Can Alzheimer’s Disease Be Prevented?

There is currently no guaranteed way to prevent Alzheimer’s. However, research shows that healthy lifestyle habits may help reduce your risk or delay onset. In fact, studies suggest that up to 45 percent of dementia cases may be preventable or delayed through lifestyle changes.

What Can You Do to Reduce Alzheimer’s Risk?

Healthy habits supporting heart health also play an important role in protecting brain health.

The following are some simple but powerful ways to protect your cognitive health:

• Stay Physically Active: Regular exercise helps improve blood flow to the brain and supports overall health.
• Manage Chronic Conditions: Conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes can impact brain health if left unmanaged.
• Keep Your Mind Engaged: Reading, puzzles, and learning new skills can keep your brain active.
• Stay Socially Connected: Maintaining relationships and staying engaged with others helps support mental and emotional well-being.
• Prioritize Sleep and Hearing Health: Sleep quality and untreated hearing loss have both been linked to increased dementia risk.

Why Does Early Awareness Matter?

Alzheimer’s disease gradually develops. It is often years before symptoms appear.

Recognizing changes early can help:

• Improve care planning
• Provide access to support and resources
• Allow for earlier intervention

And just as important, early awareness gives individuals and families time to make informed decisions.

Awareness Is a First Step

It’s easy to brush off small memory lapses, but staying informed can make all the difference. Whether it’s recognizing early signs, supporting a loved one, or taking steps to protect your own brain health, awareness gives you the ability to act and not react.

And when it comes to Alzheimer’s disease, even small steps that are taken early can have a meaningful impact.

Have questions or want more information?

If you’d like to learn more or have general questions about Medicare, you can call SECUR Health Plan at 1.833.76SECUR (1.833.767.3287). TTY callers can use 711. Our team is ready to answer your questions and support your health journey.