CHRISTUS Health highlights importance of Alzheimer’s and Brain Cancer Awareness Month in June

June is Alzheimer's and Brain Cancer Awareness Month and CHRISTUS Health is highlighting the disease that affects about 7.2 million Americans age 65 and older to provide education about signs and symptoms.

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that destroys memory and cognitive function. While age is the greatest known risk factor for Alzheimer’s, the disease is not a normal part of aging.

Early symptoms of Alzheimer’s include memory loss, confusion, decreased or poor judgment, changes in mood or personality and problems with words in speaking or writing.

Taylor Laster, family nurse practitioner with CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic in Texarkana, encourages people to recognize the early signs of Alzheimer's disease.

“Awareness is the first step toward action,” Laster said. "Many families don’t recognize the early signs of Alzheimer's—such as memory loss, confusion or changes in behavior—until the disease has significantly progressed. Education can empower individuals to seek help sooner and improve quality of life.”

Other key risk factors include a family history of Alzheimer's, genetics, and cardiovascular conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes. Lifestyle factors such as physical inactivity, poor diet and smoking can contribute.

Laster, who specializes in neurology, said that while there is no cure for Alzheimer's, lifestyle choices can help maintain brain health.

She recommends regular physical activity, a diet rich in antioxidants, mental stimulation, and social engagement as key components of a brain-healthy lifestyle.

“Brain health is a lifelong journey,” Laster said. “Simple habits like staying physically active, eating well and staying socially connected can make a meaningful difference.”

People diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease typically live 3 to 11 years after diagnosis, though some may live up to 20 years depending on factors like age, overall health and the stage at which the disease is diagnosed.

The most common direct cause of death in people with Alzheimer’s is pneumonia, often due to aspiration (inhaling food or fluids into the lungs) as swallowing becomes impaired.

Other causes include infections, malnutrition, dehydration and complications from immobility, such as blood clots or pressure ulcers.

As Alzheimer’s disease advances, caregivers often witness a steady decline in their loved one’s physical and cognitive abilities. Common changes include increased frailty, frequent infections, reduced mobility and gradual loss of communication skills.

In the final stages, individuals become entirely dependent on others for care. At this point, end-of-life care typically shifts focus to comfort, dignity and quality of life.