By Gabriele Amersbach, Prebiotin Science Writer
We forget why we come into a room. We want to introduce a neighbor we’ve known for years—and forget her name. We search for a common word that remains elusive. If we are over 50, we start worrying. Are these the ordinary signs of an aging brain or are these symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease?
For most of us, occasionally experiencing these symptoms are a part of normal aging. However, if symptoms increase and worsen, the fear of developing Alzheimer’s is not unfounded, especially for women who are at significantly higher risk.
According to Alzheimer Association statistics, about 5.5 million American have AD—and one in three seniors will die of the disease. About two-thirds of Americans with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are women, while African Americans are also at higher risk.