By Maureen Pratt

Alzheimer’s disease is a debilitating and progressive brain disease that causes changes in thinking, reasoning and behavior. An estimated 5.4 million people in the United States have the disease and, although it is more common in people age 65 and older, younger people in their 30s, 40s and 50s can develop it, too. There is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but today, there are more treatments and support available for Alzheimer’s patients and their families, particularly if the disease is detected and diagnosed in the early stages. The Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org) has developed a list of 10 warning signs that might indicate the presence of Alzheimer’s or another dementia. This list is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional, but it does provide helpful information that can then be discussed with your doctor: