Alzheimer’s Disease Facts

Key Facts About Alzheimer’s Disease

  • Alzheimer’s Disease is a progressive brain disorder, meaning that memory and thinking skills slowly worsen over time.
  • Older black/African Americans and Hispanic Americans are more likely than older whites to have Alzheimer’s Disease or other dementias.
  • In the mild or early stage of Alzheimer’s disease, many people are able to function independently in daily life—such as driving, working, or participating in hobbies. However, they may benefit from support for certain activities to optimize safety and maintain independence. An evaluation by a health professional experienced in dementia care can help individuals and families determine the right level of support.
7.2M

Americans age 65+ living with Alzheimer’s in 2025

11%

Approximately 1 in 9 Americans age 65 or older have Alzheimer’s dementia

74%

Of Americans living with Alzheimer’s dementia, 74% are age 75 or older

7th

Alzheimer’s is currently the 7th leading cause of death in the U.S.

Source: Alzheimer’s Association. 2025 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures. Alzheimers Dement 2025;21(5)

10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s

  1. Memory loss disrupting daily life
  2. Challenges in planning or solving problems
  3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks
  4. Confusion with time or place
  5. Trouble understanding visual information
  6. New problems with words
  7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
  8. Poor judgment
  9. Withdrawal from social/work activities
  10. Mood or personality changes

Brain Changes in Alzheimer’s

  • Alzheimer’s primarily occurs as a result of proteins building in the brain, forming amyloid plaques and tau tangles.
  • These changes disrupt communication between brain cells (neurons), ultimately causing cell death.
  • Brain changes can begin many years—sometimes decades—before noticeable symptoms appear.
  • The disease is believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

Researchers are actively studying biomarkers in blood and cerebrospinal fluid to improve early detection.

Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s

  • For individuals diagnosed at age 65 or older, the average duration of illness is 4 to 8 years, though some people live as long as 20 years with Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Memory impairment is a hallmark symptom, but early signs may also include difficulty finding words, impaired reasoning, and challenges with spatial awareness.
  • Common Signs of Mild Alzheimer’s – Trouble handling money, getting lost, repeating questions, personality changes.
  • Common Signs of Moderate Alzheimer’s – Greater difficulty with language, dressing, and learning new tasks.
  • Common Signs of Severe Alzheimer’s – Complete dependence on others for care and inability to communicate.

Looking for More Info on Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease?

contact@clevelandadrc.org

Looking for More Info on Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease?

contact@clevelandadrc.org

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