Understanding dementia and Alzheimer’s disease: Early awareness for a sharper mind
Last updated: 15 Dec. 2025
Reviewed by: Specialist doctors from the Elfcare quality team
Do you sometimes forget where you put your keys or struggle to recall a familiar name? Occasional forgetfulness is normal, but when memory lapses or confusion begin to interfere with daily life, they could be early signs of a deeper change in brain function.
Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are often seen as part of ageing, yet they are not inevitable. Understanding how these conditions begin and getting tested early can help protect your brain health for years to come. Elfcare’s approach centres on awareness – identifying early imbalances that affect memory, focus, and cognition before they progress.
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What is dementia and Alzheimer's disease?
Dementia is a general term for a group of conditions that affect memory, thinking, and behaviour. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, accounting for about two-thirds of all cases.
In Alzheimer’s disease, certain brain cells gradually lose their ability to communicate effectively. This happens when abnormal protein deposits (amyloid plaques and tau tangles) build up and disrupt normal brain activity. Over time, this leads to changes in memory, reasoning, and mood.
While there is no single cause, Alzheimer’s develops slowly over many years. Early detection allows for small, meaningful steps to maintain cognitive health and quality of life.
Symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer's disease
Early symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s are often subtle and may be mistaken for normal ageing. Common signs include:
Forgetting recent conversations or appointments
Repeating questions or losing track of time
Difficulty finding words or following a conversation
Trouble managing finances or everyday tasks
Misplacing items or placing them in unusual spots
Mood changes such as anxiety, withdrawal, or irritability
Reduced focus, judgement, or problem-solving ability
These symptoms may progress gradually, and that’s why testing and tracking are so important – they help separate normal ageing from early cognitive decline.
What causes dementia and Alzheimer's disease?
Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease develop through a mix of biological, lifestyle, and environmental factors:
Age: The strongest known risk factor, especially after 65.
Genetics: Certain genes (such as APOE ε4) can increase risk.
Vascular health: High blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol can damage brain blood flow.
Nutrient deficiency: Low vitamin B12 or folate can affect memory and nerve function.
Oxidative stress and inflammation: Long-term imbalance can damage brain cells.
Lifestyle: Sedentary habits, smoking, poor diet, and lack of mental stimulation contribute to cognitive decline.
No single factor guarantees dementia, but managing overall brain health early can make a real difference.
How do you detect dementia and Alzheimer's disease?
Early testing combines memory and cognitive assessments with blood-based and imaging markers that show how the brain and body are functioning.
Key biomarkers and health indicators include:
Vitamin B12 and folate: Low levels can mimic or worsen memory decline.
Homocysteine: High levels may indicate risk of nerve and vascular stress.
Thyroid function: Imbalances can cause fatigue, confusion, or slowed thinking.
Lipid profile: Measures cholesterol that affects brain blood flow.
Inflammatory and oxidative stress markers: Reflect cell health and protection capacity
Elfcare’s advanced blood tests track these key biomarkers to help you understand early changes that may affect cognition and brain vitality.
Why early detection matters
Memory decline often starts years before clear symptoms appear. Detecting small changes early allows you to take preventive steps, from improving diet and exercise to supporting sleep, mental activity, and stress balance.
Early awareness means you can make timely lifestyle choices that support brain resilience and maintain independence for longer. Preventive testing gives you a clearer picture of how your brain is functioning today and how to protect it for tomorrow.
In short, early detection means fewer surprises later.
Elfcare’s health checks measure biomarkers linked to nerve function, vitamin balance, and vascular health – all vital for maintaining brain performance.
These results help you start meaningful conversations with your healthcare provider and build a preventive plan that fits your lifestyle.
Curious about your brain health and memory balance? Elfcare’s blood tests offer early insight into what’s happening inside your body, helping you stay informed, confident, and proactive.
We focus on prevention, awareness, and empowerment. With early insights, you can stay ahead of possible imbalances and maintain energy, focus, and overall wellbeing.
How Elfcare can help
Summary
Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease develop gradually, often beginning long before symptoms become noticeable. Regular monitoring and early testing make it possible to act while your brain is still strong.
When you understand your body, you can make choices that support your memory, focus, and long-term cognitive health.
Last updated: 15 Dec. 2025
Reviewed by: Specialist doctors from the quality team at Elfcare
FAQs
What is dementia and Alzheimer’s disease?
Dementia is a general term for conditions that cause a decline in memory, thinking, and daily functioning. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, affecting brain cells involved in memory and learning. Symptoms usually develop gradually and worsen over time.
What are the most common symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease?
Common symptoms include memory loss, confusion, difficulty with communication, and changes in mood or behavior. People may struggle with problem-solving, daily tasks, or recognizing familiar people and places. Symptoms progress at different rates for each individual.
How is dementia and Alzheimer’s disease diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves medical history, cognitive testing, and physical and neurological examinations. Brain imaging and laboratory tests may be used to rule out other causes. Early diagnosis helps with planning, care, and symptom management..
Can dementia and Alzheimer’s disease be treated or prevented?
There is no cure, but treatments can help manage symptoms and slow progression in some cases. Medications, cognitive therapies, and supportive care can improve quality of life. Early support and self-care play an important role for patients and caregivers.