At The Kensington Sierra Madre, we believe education is just as useful as care. That’s why we partner with leading experts to bring valuable insights to our residents, families, and local community.
On May 7th, we were proud to host a special webinar, “The Future of Alzheimer’s Care: Early Detection & Hope on the Horizon,” in collaboration with the Sutter Health Ray Dolby Brain Health Center.
The webinar featured neurologists Dr. Armen Moughamian and Dr. Travis Urban, respected leaders in Alzheimer’s research and care.
Together, they shared the latest on early detection, innovative treatments such as Leqembi, and emerging strategies that support both individuals living with Alzheimer’s and the loved ones who care for them.
Let’s dive into the signs of Alzheimer’s, how to recognize them early, and how memory care communities such as The Kensington Sierra Madre can offer expert, compassionate support every step of the way.
Signs of Alzheimer’s: what to look for and why it matters
Alzheimer’s doesn’t arrive overnight. It’s slow, subtle, and deeply personal. But when you know what to look for, it’s easier to speak up—and that can change everything.
The signs of Alzheimer’s often start with forgetfulness that feels “off.” Not just a lost key or a missed appointment, but repeated lapses that affect daily life.
Memory loss is the most well-known symptom, but Alzheimer’s also affects language, problem-solving, behavior, and mood.
Recognizing these signs early can mean more planning time, treatment options, and a smoother path for everyone involved.
What is Alzheimer’s disease?
Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia—a broad term for conditions that affect memory, thinking, and social abilities. But Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia, responsible for up to 80% of cases.
It’s a progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, eventually making it difficult for a person to carry out even simple tasks. Over time, it also impacts behavior, personality, and physical ability.
On a biological level, Alzheimer’s causes the buildup of abnormal proteins—amyloid plaques and tau tangles—in the brain.
These interfere with communication between brain cells and eventually lead to widespread brain shrinkage and cell death.
There is no cure yet, but there are treatments that can slow progression, especially when started early.
Who gets Alzheimer’s—and how long does it last?
More than 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s today. Two-thirds are women.
The risk increases with age, but Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of getting older.
Some people develop symptoms as early as their 50s, a form called early-onset Alzheimer’s. Others are diagnosed later, usually after age 65. Genetics can play a role, but lifestyle, cardiovascular health, and even education level can also influence risk.
Alzheimer’s progresses in stages over time. On average, people live four to eight years after diagnosis—but some live up to 20 years with quality care and support.
What are the earliest signs of Alzheimer’s disease?
Alzheimer’s begins long before someone can’t recognize family or needs help with every task. It starts with mild changes that may be easy to dismiss, especially for those in a caregiver role.
1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life
This isn’t just forgetting where you left your purse. It’s forgetting the route to a familiar place or repeating the same question five minutes apart. It’s missing important events, appointments, or conversations, and not remembering they ever happened.
2. Difficulty planning or solving problems
Frequently struggling with everyday tasks such as paying bills late or budgeting, remembering familiar recipes, and reduced time management skills are all signs that the brain’s executive function may be affected.
3. Confusion with dates and where they’re at
Your loved one may not remember today’s dates or important dates, such as their own birthday or anniversary. Additionally, they may suddenly forget how they got to their location. These moments can be frightening for your loved one and you.
4. Problems with speaking or writing
Someone with early Alzheimer’s may struggle to find the right word, stop mid-sentence, or repeat themselves. They may also call everyday objects by the wrong name.
5. Changes in mood, personality, or behavior
Is your loved one suddenly anxious, suspicious, or withdrawn? Mood shifts are common in the early stages of Alzheimer’s. Depression, fearfulness, or a sudden loss of interest in hobbies can all be early signs.
6. Misplacing things in illogical places
Finding keys in the fridge. Putting a watch in a sugar jar. These aren’t simple slip-ups—they’re signs of impaired spatial awareness and memory.
7. Withdrawing from social activities
Someone who once loved bridge club or church might stop going without explanation. They may feel embarrassed or overwhelmed by the effort needed to keep up.
Talk to a doctor if you’re seeing more than one of these signs—and especially if they’re getting worse. Don’t wait. Early diagnosis allows opportunities for medications, clinical trials, support groups, and planning for care.
Why early Alzheimer’s detection matters
Think of early detection as a flashlight; It doesn’t solve the problem, but shows you the path ahead.
Catching Alzheimer’s early doesn’t mean it can be cured or reversed—but it does mean you’ll have more tools, more options, and more time.
Early diagnosis allows you to:
- Begin treatments that slow the progression of symptoms
- Plan for care and legal decisions while your loved one can still participate
- Reduce the emotional and logistical shock of a crisis later on
- Connect with support resources sooner
Breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s treatment: a new era of hope in medicine
In recent years, the field of Alzheimer’s research has seen exciting progress, offering renewed hope for families facing a diagnosis.
The approval of new treatments, such as Leqembi, signals a significant shift in how we may slow the disease’s progression in its early stages.
Leqembi (lecanemab) is a medication that targets amyloid plaques—abnormal protein clusters that accumulate in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s.
By helping to reduce these plaques, Leqembi aims to slow cognitive decline, giving individuals and families more time to plan, connect, and maintain quality of life.
While it’s not a cure, it represents a step forward in disease-modifying therapy.
In addition to new medications, researchers are also exploring:
- Blood-based biomarkers for earlier and easier diagnosis
- Lifestyle-focused interventions, including diet, sleep, and exercise
- Personalized care plans that integrate medication, cognitive stimulation, and emotional support
- Clinical trials that offer access to cutting-edge therapies
The Kensington Sierra Madre is your partner in memory care and assisted living
At The Kensington Sierra Madre, we offer a full spectrum of care—including assisted living and three levels of memory care—so residents can truly age in place, even as their needs change.
Whether your loved one is in the early stages of memory loss or requires more advanced support, our expert team is here to provide personalized, compassionate care in one trusted community.
Reach out to The Kensington Sierra Madre today to learn how we can support your family!