There are two basic types of Alzheimer's disease: early-onset
Alzheimer's disease and late-onset Alzheimer's disease. Late-onset
Alzheimer's disease is the much more common type, generally beginning
after age 65.
What is early-onset Alzheimer's disease?
This is a relatively rare form of Alzheimer's disease in which
individuals are diagnosed with the disease before age 65, usually in
their 40s and 50s. Less than five percent of all Alzheimer's disease
patients have this type. Symptoms of early-onset Alzheimer's disease are
similar to those of late-onset Alzheimer's disease, but the person often
is still active with work, family and social activities when the
symptoms begin. Symptoms of Alzheimer's disease include:
- Memory loss
- Confusion
- Restlessness
- Misplacing things
- Trouble performing familiar tasks
- Changes in personality and behavior
- Poor or decreased judgment
- Impaired communication
- Inability to follow directions
- Problems with language
- Impaired visuospatial skills
- Social withdrawal and less willingness to interact with others
- Loss of motivation or initiative
What are the differences between early-onset and late-onset Alzheimer's disease?
In addition to age, there are other differences between early-onset and late-onset Alzheimer's disease, including:
A substantial majority of early-onset Alzheimer's disease appears to
be linked with a genetic defect on chromosome 14, to which late-onset
Alzheimer's is not linked.
A condition called myoclonus — muscle twitching and spasm — is more
commonly seen in early-onset Alzheimer's disease than in late-onset
Alzheimer's disease.
Some research suggests that people with early-onset Alzheimer's
disease decline at a faster rate than do those with late-onset
Alzheimer's disease.
Younger people who are diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease tend to be
more physically fit and active, and many still have family and career
responsibilities. As a result, they tend to react differently to the disease, and may be more likely to feel powerless, frustrated and
depressed.
Tips for living with early-onset Alzheimer's disease
People with early-onset Alzheimer's disease must understand that life
is not over. While it's true that your life will change, particularly as
the disease progresses, there are things you can do to maintain a
meaningful and productive life. It is especially important to continue
with activities and interests you can still enjoy, and take comfort in
the support of friends and family.
Here are some tips for living with Alzheimer's disease: