About Alzheimer's and Dementia

Causes and Risk Factors

Dementia occurs when brain cells are damaged, often due to age-related changes, genetics, or underlying conditions.

Risk factors include:

• Age: Dementia is most common in people over 65
• Common Conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure, and head injuries are associated with higher risk of dementia
• Health Habits: Smoking, poor diet, and lack of physical activity may increase dementia risk
• Family History: If relatives have had dementia, your chances of developing it may be higher
• Hearing Loss and Depression: Recent research shows that untreated hearing loss and depression Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov  can increase dementia risk

Learn more about the causes of Alzheimer's and other dementias and how you can reduce your risk.Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov 

Symptoms of Dementia

While occasional forgetfulness or changes in behavior are normal, certain patterns of thinking or memory changes could indicate something more serious.

Common symptoms of dementia include:

• Memory Loss: Forgetting recent events or repeating questions
• Difficulty Solving Problems: Struggling with daily tasks like cooking or managing finances
• Sensory and Spatial Issues: Challenges with vision or balance
• Mood and Personality Changes: Increased anxiety, depression, or withdrawal from social activities
• Confusion: Getting lost in familiar places or struggling to follow conversations

The International Association for Indigenous Aging (IA2) Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov  has created a flyer with 10 signs of thinking and memory changes Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov  that could potentially be signs of dementia, specifically for American Indian and Alaska Native communities. Recognizing these symptoms early and seeking help can connect loved ones to the right care, support, and resources.

IA2 made a set of short videos Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov  for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov  on other resources they offer to help people recognize the early signs of dementia.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Early diagnosis and treatment can help people stay independent and comfortable for as long as possible. Talking to a health care provider is often the first step for people experiencing dementia symptoms.

To evaluate dementia, health care providers may use:

• Simple screening tools like the Mini-Cog® Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov 
• Blood tests
• Brain imaging (such as CT scan or MRI)
• A review of medical history

There is no cure for dementia, but treatments can slow progression and improve quality of life. Medications, therapies, and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms. Clinical trials may also offer access to new treatments and support research advancements.

Learn more about diagnosis, treatment Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov , and planning for next steps, Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov  after a dementia diagnosis.

Living with Dementia

People with dementia can live meaningful, happy days for many years. Adapting and thriving often includes:

• Creating routines
• Staying active and socially engaged
• Eating a healthy diet
• Working with health care teams
• Planning for the future with family and friends

If you have been diagnosed with dementia, download this free "Take Action" workbook Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov from the Alzheimer's Association.

Family, friends, and caregivers play a key role in helping people living with dementia. They assist with daily tasks, doctor’s appointments, and safety. While caregiving can be rewarding, it also requires patience and support. Balancing caregiving with self-care is important.

The Alzheimer's Association's Caregiver Center Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov offers tips and support for caregivers, and additional resources can also be found on the Alzheimer's website.Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov