Changes

[[Image:Odds of Developing Alzheimer's.png|right]]

[[Image:Odds of Developing Alzheimer's.png|right]]

AD usually begins after age 60. The risk goes up as you get older.<ref>Hebert, LE; Scherr, PA; Bienias, JL; Bennett, DA; Evans, DA. “Alzheimer Disease in the U.S. population; Prevalence Estimates Using the 2000 Census.” Archives of Neurology. August 2003; 60 (8): 1119 –1122; National Academy on an Aging Society. “Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia: A Growing Challenge.” September, 2000. Graphic used on page 7 of the National Alzheimer's Strategic Plan, March 25, 2009</ref> Your risk is also higher if a family member has had the disease.

AD usually begins after age 60. The risk goes up as you get older.<ref>Hebert, LE; Scherr, PA; Bienias, JL; Bennett, DA; Evans, DA. “Alzheimer Disease in the U.S. population; Prevalence Estimates Using the 2000 Census.” Archives of Neurology. August 2003; 60 (8): 1119 –1122; National Academy on an Aging Society. “Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia: A Growing Challenge.” September, 2000. Graphic used on page 7 of the National Alzheimer's Strategic Plan, March 25, 2009</ref> Your risk is also higher if a family member has had the disease. The incubation period of Alzheimer's is thought to be 40-60 years. This means that you are infected at a young age, but don't show symptoms for a long time. That is why the disease affects the elderly the most.

No treatment can stop the disease. However, some drugs may help keep symptoms from getting worse for a limited time.

No treatment can stop the disease. However, some drugs may help keep symptoms from getting worse for a limited time.