Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive condition that slowly affects memory, thinking, and the ability to carry out everyday tasks. It’s the most common cause of dementia and mainly impacts older adults, especially those over the age of 65.

At Chester Neurology, we frequently encounter patients and their families in the early stages of memory loss. It’s an emotional journey, but the earlier it’s identified, the better we can help guide the next steps.

Common Symptoms and What to Watch For

Initially, a person with Alzheimer’s may forget recent conversations or misplace items. They may ask the same question repeatedly, lose track of dates, or get lost in places they’ve known for years. Over time, these changes get more noticeable. Patients might struggle with language, decisions, or recognizing loved ones.

Many families come in after noticing these changes, unsure if it’s just aging or something more. If forgetfulness starts interfering with daily life—such as cooking, paying bills, or getting dressed—it’s time for a neurological evaluation.

Why It Happens

Research shows that a buildup of abnormal proteins—beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles—disrupts how brain cells communicate. Over time, these changes cause healthy brain tissue to shrink and die.

The damage typically begins in the area of the brain associated with memory and then spreads to other regions as the disease progresses.

Who’s at Risk?

Age is the most significant risk factor. Most people diagnosed are 65 or older, though it’s not just “a normal part of aging.” Genetics can also play a role—if a parent or sibling had Alzheimer’s, there may be a higher chance of developing it. Other risk factors include:

  • History of head trauma
  • Poor sleep or untreated sleep apnea
  • High blood pressure, diabetes, or obesity
  • Smoking or sedentary lifestyle
  • Hearing or vision loss (especially when untreated)
  • Low levels of social or mental activity

We sometimes see younger patients with early-onset Alzheimer’s, including individuals with Down syndrome or rare genetic variants.

How It Affects the Body

As Alzheimer’s worsens, it starts to impact everything. Patients may forget how to eat or drink, have trouble swallowing, and become more susceptible to infections, such as pneumonia. They may stop being able to recognize pain or explain what they’re feeling, which makes treating other health issues harder.

Eventually, complications from Alzheimer’s—like weight loss, falls, choking, or infections—can become life-threatening. Most patients do not die from Alzheimer’s directly, but from the complications that result from this condition.

Can It Be Prevented?

There’s no guaranteed way to prevent Alzheimer’s, but healthy habits can lower the risk or slow its progression:

  • Get regular exercise—even walking daily helps
  • Eat a brain-friendly diet (like the Mediterranean diet)
  • Maintain healthy levels of blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.
  • Stay mentally and socially active—learn something new or spend time with friends.
  • Don’t ignore hearing or vision issues—use aids if needed.
  • Get good sleep and manage stress.

In our experience, the more a person is engaged physically, mentally, and socially, the better they tend to function over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the earliest symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease to look for?

Early signs include forgetting recent conversations, misplacing items, asking the same question repeatedly, getting lost, or losing track of dates when forgetfulness interferes with daily life.

How does a neurologist diagnose Alzheimer’s disease?

A neurologist performs a neurological evaluation when memory problems interfere with daily life and may also use cognitive testing, brain imaging, and lab work to rule out other causes.

What causes Alzheimer’s disease and who is most at risk?

It is caused by a buildup of abnormal proteins—beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles—which disrupt how brain cells communicate. Age is the biggest risk, and genetics also increases risk.

Are there different stages of Alzheimer’s and what do they mean?

Yes—Alzheimer’s is progressive, beginning with mild memory changes and advancing to difficulty with language, decisions, recognition, and later eating, swallowing, and managing other medical issues.

Can Alzheimer’s disease be prevented or delayed?

Healthy habits like exercise, a brain-friendly diet, managing blood pressure and blood sugar, staying mentally and socially active, treating hearing/vision issues, good sleep, and stress control can lower the risk or slow its progression.

What treatment options are available for Alzheimer’s patients?

Treatment includes advanced testing, personalized care plans, symptom-targeting medications, and support for daily functioning and safety.

How does Alzheimer’s differ from normal memory loss or dementia?

Alzheimer’s is described as the most common cause of dementia and not a normal part of aging because it involves progressive changes that interfere with daily life.

What lifestyle changes can help manage Alzheimer’s symptoms?

Staying physically, mentally, and socially active helps patients function better over time; a brain-friendly diet, exercise, sleep, and managing health conditions are also important.

How can family members best support someone with Alzheimer’s disease?

Families are encouraged to seek early neurological evaluation, understand symptoms, and follow guidance for care.

Are there any new medications or research advances for Alzheimer’s?

Yes—recent therapies target amyloid and tau proteins, and research continues to explore ways to slow progression and improve early detection through imaging and biomarkers.

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When to Reach Out

If you or a loved one in Westchester or NYC is noticing memory changes, don’t wait. A neurological evaluation can bring clarity and peace of mind. Even if it’s not Alzheimer’s, there may be another treatable cause behind the symptoms.

At Chester Neurology, we take the time to understand your concerns and provide personalized care plans. Whether it’s advanced testing, treatment options, or just helping you know what to expect, we’re here for you.

Call our office at (914) 816-1941 or email us at info@chesterneurology.com to schedule an appointment.

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