Expert: Mary Gordon - 5/25/2007

Question
what age do you get this at can you get it at 15

Answer
Jack, there are at least two forms of Alzheimers, which may ultimately be two entirely separate diseases.

Early onset AD can impact people as young as in their 30's, but more often hits people in their 40's, 50's and 60's. I've never heard of it impacting someone in their teens.

Run of the mill Alzheimer's or late onset Alzheimer's tends to impact people over 65. The older a person gets, the higher their odds of developing AD. But again, not someone in their teens.

Having said that, there ARE many, many physical and mental illnesses that can cause memory problems, brain "fog", perception and behavioural problems, dementia or delirium. If you think for a minute you are experiencing some trouble remembering or thinking clearly, it is always worth talking to the doctor about. For example, undiagnosed thyroid problems can make a person feel very forgetful and foggy. As well as physical illness affecting your mind (which it can and does) -stress, hormones, lack of rest, a poor diet, depression - all kinds of things can impact your mental function.

So, if you think you are experiencing a change in yourself with regards to your mental function, its something to discuss with your parents and your doctor.

Hope this helps, Jackkkkkkkkkkkk

Mary G.
(mom of three kids, 16, 13 and 10)