Americans Worry About Alzheimer's Disease, Survey Finds, but Most Don't Know the Early Signs and Symptoms

A MDVIP/Ipsos survey found while many Americans say they want to reduce their risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease, they have little knowledge about early symptoms and risk factors, reports USA Today . The survey estimated that 80 percent of Americans want to reduce their risk of dementia, yet only about 35 percent say they know the signs. University of Pennsylvania Professor Jason Karlawish says common early warning signs for Alzheimer's-induced dementia include repetitive questions and stories, troubles with orientation, and difficulties with complex, daily tasks. About 1,200 people participated in the poll, and Boston University School of Medicine Professor Andrew Budson says few people know the difference between dementia and Alzheimer's. Ways of reducing the risk of both conditions include physical exercise and diet, with Budson citing aerobic exercises and the Mediterranean diet especially. MDVIP Chief Medical Officer Andrea Klemes adds that caring for one's emotional health also carries benefits. Research has demonstrated that depression is a risk factor for dementia, and those with symptoms of depression tend to suffer faster deterioration in thinking and memory skills.