Alzheimer's Disease

Frequently Asked Questions

13. If a member of my family has Alzheimer's disease, am I at increased risk for developing it? - cont'd

In late-onset Alzheimer's disease, which most often occurs after age 65, there is no obvious family pattern in most cases. Late-onset Alzheimer's disease develops for reasons that scientists are still trying to determine.

Age is the most important known risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. Having a family member with Alzheimer's disease does increase the risk for developing late-onset Alzheimer's disease, but by no means guarantees that you will develop the disease.