As we age, maintaining our health often becomes more complex—particularly when it comes to cognitive function. One of the most pressing challenges facing older adults today is Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive and irreversible brain disorder that gradually destroys memory and thinking skills, and eventually, the ability to carry out even the simplest tasks.

Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging. Yet, it is the most common cause of dementia among older adults, accounting for 60–80% of all dementia cases. With the aging U.S. population, the impact of Alzheimer’s is becoming more widespread and deeply personal for millions of families.

In this article, we’ll explore what Alzheimer’s is, who it affects, the warning signs to look for, and what we can do—as individuals, families, and a healthcare community—to support those living with the disease and their caregivers.

The Scope of the Issue: Alzheimer’s by the Numbers

The scale of Alzheimer’s disease is staggering—and it’s growing.

According to the Alzheimer's Association:

The toll isn’t just medical—it’s economic and emotional. In 2024, Alzheimer’s and other dementias cost the nation $360 billion, with that number projected to rise to $1 trillion by 2050. And yet, for many families, the greatest cost is personal: the time, energy, and emotional labor required to care for a loved one as they lose the person they once were.

Understanding the Disease: What Is Alzheimer’s?

Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurological disorder that causes brain cells to degenerate and die. This leads to a continuous decline in thinking, behavioral, and social skills.

Scientists believe Alzheimer’s begins many years before symptoms appear, with changes in the brain—such as the accumulation of amyloid plaques and tau tangles—occurring silently. As the disease progresses, it disrupts the function of neurons, leading to memory loss, confusion, impaired judgment, and eventually, loss of the ability to perform daily activities.

There are two main types of Alzheimer’s:

  1. Early-onset Alzheimer’s (less common): Occurs in people younger than 65 and may have a genetic component.
  2. Late-onset Alzheimer’s (most common): Typically affects people age 65 and older, with risk increasing with age.

While we don’t yet know exactly what causes Alzheimer’s, we do know that age, family history, and genetics are key risk factors. Lifestyle factors such as physical activity, cardiovascular health, and social engagement also play a role.

Signs and Symptoms: When to Be Concerned

Many older adults worry about memory lapses—and for good reason. But not all memory problems signal Alzheimer’s. Still, it’s important to know the early signs so that families can seek medical evaluation when necessary.

According to the CDC, warning signs include: 

  • Memory loss that disrupts daily life
  • Difficulty completing familiar tasks
  • Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
  • Confusion with time or place
  • 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 or personality

Early diagnosis matters. It can open doors to treatments that may slow symptoms, give families more time to plan for the future, and provide better access to support and resources.

Living with Alzheimer’s: The Role of Caregivers and Communities

Most individuals with Alzheimer’s are cared for by family members, who often juggle jobs, children, and other responsibilities while managing the needs of their loved one. In 2023, more than 11 million Americans provided unpaid care for people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias, contributing over 18.4 billion hours of care—valued at nearly $340 billion.

Caregiving can be incredibly rewarding, but also incredibly stressful. Caregivers are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and physical health problems. That’s why it’s critical that we support caregivers as well as those living with the disease.

At Flagship Health, we encourage caregivers to:

  • Seek support through caregiver groups or counseling
  • Stay informed with up-to-date resources on Alzheimer’s care
  • Ask for help from family, friends, or community services
  • Take breaks and prioritize their own health and well-being

We also work closely with families to coordinate care, simplify access to resources, and ensure that our patients feel safe, respected, and valued at every stage of their journey.

Hope on the Horizon: Treatment and Research

There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease. However, scientific understanding of the disease is advancing rapidly, offering hope for better treatments and outcomes.

In recent years, the FDA has approved several new therapies that target the underlying biology of Alzheimer’s, such as anti-amyloid antibodies. These medications—while not cures—may slow cognitive decline in some individuals in the early stages of the disease.

Additionally, research has shown that healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk or delay the onset of cognitive decline:

  • Regular physical activity
  • A heart-healthy diet, like the Mediterranean or DASH diet
  • Social engagement and cognitive stimulation
  • Managing high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes
  • Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol use

At Flagship Health, we take a whole-person approach to aging. That means not only treating existing conditions but also helping older adults take steps to protect their brain health for the future.

What You Can Do: Prevention, Early Action, and Advocacy

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent Alzheimer’s, there are many things we can all do to promote cognitive health as we age:

  1. Get regular checkups – especially if you or a loved one notice changes in memory or behavior.
  2. Keep your brain active – through reading, puzzles, music, or learning something new.
  3. Stay connected – isolation can increase the risk of cognitive decline.
  4. Eat nutritious food – especially those rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and fiber.
  5. Move your body – even light walking or stretching can improve circulation and brain function.
  6. Know your family history – and share it with your healthcare provider.
  7. Advocate for research funding and resources – especially in underserved communities.

Supporting Healthier Aging Together

Alzheimer’s is a daunting diagnosis. But no one should have to face it alone.

At Flagship Health, we are committed to providing compassionate, coordinated care to older adults—including those living with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers. Whether it’s through routine check-ins, care planning, mental health support, or connecting you with the right specialists, we’re here to help.

We believe that aging should come with dignity, support, and access to the best care possible. Together, we can raise awareness, reduce stigma, and work toward a future where Alzheimer’s is not a life sentence—but a challenge we face with strength, knowledge, and community.

Resources

For more information or support, consider these trusted resources:

If you or someone you love is concerned about memory changes or has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, don’t wait to get help. Contact your Flagship Health care team today to schedule a conversation.