Which memory goes first for Alzheimer’s?

Alzheimer’s is a brain disease that usually first appears in those over 65 but can occur in younger people. Although it’s primarily associated with aging, it isn’t a part of normal aging. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive condition at work in the brain long before initial symptoms present themselves.

Symptoms of Alzheimer’s vary from person to person somewhat but usually progress in stages as the disease advances in the brain. For this reason, it’s not possible to say exactly what memory may be lost first, but a close approximation may be made. The most common early symptom of the condition is difficulty remembering newly learned information. Symptoms can be very mild initially and can be confused for normal aging at the beginning.

Alzheimer’s is thought to be caused by the buildup of specific proteins in the brain. Some build in areas that make it difficult or impossible for brain cells to communicate with one another, interrupting specific processes like memory and perception. Over time, this spread, and a further decline in cognitive function is experienced. Some proteins develop and prevent cells in the brain from absorbing nutrients needed for cell health, leading to cell death. In the final stages of the disease, the brain is reduced in size or atrophied due to this cell death.

At present, there is no treatment or cure to slow, stop, or reverse Alzheimer’s, although research continues and work for a cure and viable treatments are ongoing. Treatment involves managing some of the symptoms caused by the disease, which can be alleviated with some medications and other measures. Mood swings and changes in behavior may be addressed with medication, as can sleep disturbance often experienced by those with Alzheimer’s.

As the disease advances, increased levels of care are needed by those with Alzheimer’s. In the late stages of the condition, the ability to communicate, engage with one’s environment, swallow, and walk, may all be impaired.

If you have questions about Alzheimer’s disease, talk with your trusted medical provider, or contact the Alzheimer’s Helpline at 1-800-272-3900. If you’re someone who provides care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, self-care is vital to alleviate caregiver stress and fatigue. For support as a caregiver, it may be helpful to reach out to a licensed mental health provider.