HealthTree Blog

Alzheimer’s disease normally manifests after age 60; however, there are a small number of people who begin to show true Alzheimer’s symptoms in their 40s and 50s. When this occurs, and a definitive diagnosis is made, the condition is called early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, to distinguish it from that which appears after age 60.
The same symptoms that appear in after-60 Alzheimer’s are also present in early-onset Alzheimer’s. These include memory loss, problems with decision-making, decline in memory skills, and possible noticeable personality changes, as well as others. However, because these symptoms appear earlier than normal, early-onset Alzheimer’s is often misdiagnosed.
It is known that those who suffer from early-onset Alzheimer’s have three specific genes present in their bodies. These three genes are the main cause of this type of Alzheimer’s, although other risk factors (which mirror those of later-onset Alzheimer’s), can also contribute. These factors include, but are not limited to: the herpes virus, previous head trauma, gender, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
Those who are at risk for, or have been diagnosed with, early-onset Alzheimer’s may face different problems than those who are older when the disease strikes. While they should continue to work as long as they are able, they may have to end their employment several years before they had planned, which may cause financial problems. This needs to be addressed before the issue becomes a reality.
Furthermore, those who still have young children at home may need to arrange for extra help with them, especially as the disease progresses. It may be necessary for someone to be present when they return from school and during school holidays while the spouse or significant other continues to work. Support groups are also available for those with early-onset Alzheimer’s. These groups can offer advice and resources for both the afflicted and his or her loved ones.