In my last post, I discussed 10 warning signs for Alzheimer’s Disease. I would now like to talk about potential causes and risk factors.  If you are aware of the risk factors then you might be able to catch the warning signs earlier for yourself or a loved one.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer research, scientists do know that Alzheimer’s Disease involves the failure of nerve cells.  While scientists have not been able to determine why this failure occurs, they have been able to identify certain risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s.

Risk Factors

1. Age – The greatest known risk factor for Alzheimer’s is the increasing age of the individual.  According to the Alzheimer’s Association, most individuals with the illness are age 65 and older and the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s approximately doubles every five years after age 65.  The Association also notes that after age 85, the risk reaches nearly 50 percent.

2. Family History – This is perhaps the second most important factor in discerning those who are at-risk for Alzheimer’s.  According to the Alzheimer’s Association, research has shown that those who have a parent or a sibling with Alzheimer’s are two to three times more likely to develop the disease.

3. Head Injury – Age and family history are risk factors that an individual cannot change.  However, recent research has revealed a link between serious head injury and future risk of Alzheimer’s.  Because of this, it is important to protect your head by wearing your seat belt, wearing a helmet while participating in certain physical activities and “fall-proofing” your home.

Frequently Asked Question: Does the use of Aluminum products lead to the development of Alzheimer’s?

The following is a statement from Alzheimer’s Association:

“During the 1960’s and 1970’s, aluminum emerged as a possible suspect in causing Alzheimer’s disease.  This suspicion led to concerns about the everyday exposure to aluminum through sources such as cooking pots, foil, beverage cans, antacids and antiperspirants.  Since then, studies have failed to confirm any role for aluminum in causing Alzheimer’s.  Almost all scientists today focus on other areas of research, and few experts believe that everyday sources of aluminum pose any threat.

In the posts to come, I will explore some ways to stay healthy while aging that may actually help fight the onset of Alzheimer’s.  For now, make sure you know the risk factors involved so that you can be an informed loved one that may hopefully catch the disease in an early stage.