Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common type of dementia and is a progressive disease that affects the parts of the brain controlling thought, memories and emotions.  Beginning with mild memory loss, Alzheimer’s can worsen and destroy the ability to have a conversation, respond to the environment or carry out activities of daily living.  Alzheimer’s disease accounts for 60-80% of dementia cases and is ultimately fatal.  There are approximately 66,000 Iowans living with this disease as of 2020.

Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging.  Memory problems are typically one of the first warning signs of cognitive loss and are always worth getting checked by a doctor.  If you or someone you know has several of the signs listed below, it does not necessarily mean that Alzheimer’s disease is the cause.  However, one should talk with a health care provider when experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Memory loss that disrupts daily life
• Challenges in planning or solving problems
• Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work, or at leisure
• Confusion with time or place
• Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relations
• New problems with words in speaking or writing
• Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
• Decreased or poor judgment
• Withdrawal from work or social activities
• Changes in mood and personality

Resources

2021 Alzheimer's Facts and Figures Shee 

2021 Alzheimer's Facts and Figures Infographic 

Alzheimer's Disease in Iowa 

Source: CDC, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention