Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia. Persons with Alzheimer's disease lose functioning neurons (nerve cells) in areas of the brain dealing with cognitive function and memory.

Some change in memory is normal as we grow older, but the warning signs of Alzheimer's disease are more than simple lapses in memory. People with Alzheimer's experience difficulties communicating, learning, thinking and reasoning. They may forget entire experiences, be unable to follow written/spoken directions, rarely remembers later and will be unable to use notes as reminders. These problems are severe enough to have an impact on an individual's work, social activities and family life. They also experience buildup of abnormal proteins in some brain cells. Alzheimer's disease affects mostly older adults but can sometimes begin in younger individuals. The cause of Alzheimer's disease is not known, but risk factors for Alzheimer's disease include family history and advanced age.

The Alzheimer's Association has developed a checklist to help recognize the difference between normal age-related memory changes and possible warning signs of Alzheimer's disease. There's no clear-cut line between normal changes and warning signs. It's always a good idea to check with a doctor if a person's level of function seems to be changing. The Alzheimer's Association believes that it is critical for people diagnosed with dementia and their families to receive information, care and support as early as possible.