Alzheimer's disease affects nearly 7 million Americans, according to the Alzheimer's Association, and that number is expected to climb as the population ages. The disease's reach goes well beyond the person diagnosed: the Association estimates that caring for people with Alzheimer's and other dementias costs the nation hundreds of billions of dollars a year, a figure projected to approach $1 trillion by 2050. The CDC lists Alzheimer's among the leading causes of death for adults 65 and older.

This explainer covers what Alzheimer's does to the brain, why early diagnosis has become more important than ever, and practical steps people can take.

Key Points

• Alzheimer's is marked by amyloid plaques and tau tangles that disrupt how brain cells work.
• Newer FDA-approved treatments are designed for the early stages of the disease, which makes timely diagnosis more valuable.
• Memory concerns are often dismissed as normal aging, delaying evaluation.
• Heart-healthy habits and managing cardiovascular risk factors may support brain health.

What Alzheimer's Looks Like in the Brain

Researchers using advanced imaging and tissue studies have mapped two hallmark changes. Amyloid plaques are dense clumps of protein fragments that collect between nerve cells. Tau tangles are twisted fibers of a different protein that build up inside cells. Together, they interfere with communication between neurons and contribute to the gradual decline in memory, thinking and eventually physical function.

These changes can begin years before symptoms are noticeable, which is why early evaluation is a growing focus in Alzheimer's care.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters Now

In recent years, the FDA has approved the first treatments shown to slow disease progression in people with early-stage Alzheimer's. Because these therapies are intended for the early phase, recognizing cognitive changes promptly has taken on new importance.

Unfortunately, the Alzheimer's Association reports that many people with memory concerns — and their doctors — don't discuss them, often chalking changes up to normal aging. That hesitation can delay diagnosis and access to treatment.

How Alzheimer's Is Evaluated

Diagnosing Alzheimer's typically involves several pieces: cognitive testing, a medical history, a neurological exam and, increasingly, biomarker tests that look for amyloid or tau. Brain imaging plays a supporting role. Structural imaging such as CT or MRI can show shrinkage in certain brain regions, evidence of strokes or other causes of symptoms, while specialized PET scans can detect amyloid directly. No single scan diagnoses Alzheimer's on its own; results are interpreted by physicians alongside the rest of the evaluation.

For people interested in a baseline look at brain structure, Advanced Body Scan offers brain imaging and a BrainIQ scan. Findings should be reviewed with a physician, especially if memory or thinking changes are a concern.

Practical Steps

Talk about memory changes

If you or a family member notices changes in memory or thinking, bring them up with a physician rather than waiting. Regular cognitive screening is particularly worthwhile after 65.

Support brain health through overall health

Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, mental stimulation and good sleep may all contribute to brain health. Managing cardiovascular risk factors — blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar — matters too, since what's good for the heart is generally good for the brain. A heart scan is one way to understand cardiovascular risk.

Stay informed

Research is moving quickly. Keeping up with new findings and treatment options helps families make informed decisions about care.

Build a support network

More than 11 million Americans provide unpaid care for someone with Alzheimer's or another dementia, according to the Alzheimer's Association, and many experience considerable stress themselves. Support groups, respite care and community resources can ease that burden.

The Takeaway

Alzheimer's remains one of the most challenging diseases families face, but the landscape is changing. Earlier recognition, new treatments and strong caregiver support all improve the outlook. The first step is often the simplest: taking memory concerns seriously and starting the conversation.