Alzheimer’s disease is known as the most common type of dementia. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, it is estimated that over 6 million Americans are living with the disease, and that number is projected to increase to almost 13 million by 2050.
Though you may be familiar with the disease or even know someone who suffers from it, you may not have heard that there are different types of Alzheimer’s. In today’s blog, we’ll be explaining the three types and offering a possible solution you can consider to help your loved ones manage the symptoms of this disease.
Types of Alzheimer’s Disease
Though there are different types, Alzheimer’s affects persons similarly but with varying degrees of severity. Generally speaking, this includes problems with memory loss and various behavioral abnormalities.
The three types of Alzheimer’s disease are early-onset, late-onset and familial.
Early-Onset Alzheimer’s
This is diagnosed when a person begins to experience symptoms of the disease before age 65, typically in their late 40s or 50s though it can be as early as 30 years old in some instances. It is rare; scientists believe it is caused by a defect in chromosome 14 of a person’s DNA.
Late-Onset Alzheimer’s
On the other hand, when signs appear after age 65, it is referred to as late-onset Alzheimer’s. It’s the most common of the three, and a risk factor for developing this type is having a particular form of a gene called APOE on chromosome 19 of one’s DNA. Though a risk factor, it’s important to note that not everyone with that particular gene is guaranteed to develop Alzheimer’s.
Familial Alzheimer’s Diseases
The final type, familial Alzheimer’s disease, also referred to simply as FAD, is the one that doctors can say is undoubtedly linked to a mutation in genes that runs in a person’s family. Once affected, members of at least two generations would have had the disease. Most people who have early-onset Alzheimer’s have FAD.
Quality Care Makes All The Difference
As a family member or friend, caring for someone with a disease such as Alzheimer’s can be difficult, especially if they require full-time assistance. Getting access to quality care in-home health care is one of the best things you can do to help manage the symptoms of this disease.
Comfort Keepers Home Care in Reno provides specialized memory care for seniors diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or another form of cognitive decline. For those who need to take a break from their caretaking duties, respite care is also available.
In addition to Reno, we also serve Sparks, Carson City, Incline Village, and neighboring communities, so feel free to contact us to schedule a free consultation.
