Early-onset Alzheimer's is when symptoms begin before the age of 65, often showing up in a person's 40s or 50s — though in rare cases, even earlier. It's less common than the late-onset version, which starts at 65 or older.
The symptoms are actually the same as late-onset Alzheimer's. These can include:
- Trouble Show Full Answer
Early-onset Alzheimer's is when symptoms begin before the age of 65, often showing up in a person's 40s or 50s — though in rare cases, even earlier. It's less common than the late-onset version, which starts at 65 or older.
The symptoms are actually the same as late-onset Alzheimer's. These can include:
- Trouble remembering new information
- Difficulty finding the right words
- Struggling to solve problems that used to feel easy
- Getting lost in familiar places
- Changes in mood or personality
- Poor judgment or reasoning One thing that sets early-onset apart is that it can sometimes be linked to genetics. A specific form called Familial Alzheimer's Disease (FAD) is passed down through families and is tied to changes in certain genes. If Alzheimer's runs in your family, it may be worth talking to your doctor about genetic counseling.
That said, most early-onset cases don't have a clear genetic cause.
Getting a diagnosis can sometimes be tricky because doctors don't always look for Alzheimer's in younger people. If you're unsure what type you have, a specialist who understands Alzheimer's can help figure that out. Bringing a list of your symptoms to that appointment can really help!
July 19
Thanks. I was diagnosed about a year ago. I feel pretty normal. I am on a healthy diet. Maybe that is helping me.
July 19
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