Alzheimer’s Awareness Month Blog
Fact vs. Fiction: Why Early Detection of Alzheimer’s Matters

This Alzheimer’s Awareness Month brings both reflection and hope. The FDA’s recent approval of the first blood test that can help primary care providers rule out Alzheimer’s marks another step forward in how we understand and detect this disease.  


This milestone reinforces a critical truth: early detection matters. 

Alzheimer’s begins years—even decades—before noticeable symptoms appear. The sooner we recognize and understand what’s happening in the brain, the more options people have to take control of their health, plan for the future, and participate in research that can change the course of this disease.  

Fiction: “I feel healthy—I don’t need to think about Alzheimer’s yet?”


Fact: Feeling healthy doesn’t always mean your brain is, too. Subtle cognitive changes can start long before memory loss becomes noticeable. Understanding your brain health early—through screenings, cognitive assessments, or conversations with your doctor—can open doors to new treatments, lifestyle changes, and clinical trials that may slow progression and improve quality of life. Learn more about early signs and symptoms.  


Fiction: “There’s no point in finding out early if there’s no cure.”


Fact: You can—and should—take steps early. Early awareness opens the door to early action. Whether it’s managing heart health, improving sleep, or staying socially connected, there are proven ways to protect your brain.  

A great place to start is by taking UsAgainstAlzheimer’s BrainGuide. This free, confidential resource offers an interactive memory questionnaire and personalized action steps to help you better understand and support your cognitive health—whether you’re noticing changes in yourself or a loved one.  

And while there’s no cure yet, there are medications, therapies, and daily practices that can help people stay independent longer and live well for more years. Learn more about ways to keep your brain healthy.  


Fiction: “I’d rather not know if I might have Alzheimer’s—it would just make me anxious.”


Fact: Avoiding answers can feel easier in the moment, but knowledge is empowering. The earlier you understand what’s happening, the more opportunities you have—connecting with doctors, exploring treatment options, and putting support systems in place. It’s natural to worry about how others might react, but Alzheimer’s is a medical condition, not a personal failing. Talking openly about brain health helps people get the care and community they deserve—and encourages others to do the same. Learn more about other ways to screen and diagnose Alzheimer’s.  

Early Detection Gives You Options—and Hope


Knowing sooner gives people power: the power to make informed medical, financial, and lifestyle decisions; the power to join clinical trials and contribute to breakthroughs; and the power to take meaningful steps to protect brain health.  

This Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, let’s move from fear to empowerment. By embracing early detection and using tools like BrainGuide, we can turn uncertainty into action—and make brain health a lifelong priority. More resources for Alzheimer’s can be found here.