Genetics was a strong factor in my mom\'s development of AD. Her mom had it, but it passed over her sister who is a few years older. The sister stayed active in life whereas my mom did not. When my dad passed away in 2001, she basically gave up on living. She would sit on the couch and stare out the window as if waiting for someone. She lost interest in going anywhere or doing anything. She didn\'t want to read books or magazines and had no interest in even watching television. When family would visit, even conversation with her was difficult. She would answer in one or two words and wouldn\'t even try to put together a sentence. I think this contributed to her rapid deterioration and enhanced the progression of the disease. Mind stimulation, physical activity and healthy living will help slow the disease down. It is vital to have communication with your doctor and be frank about any symptoms you start to notice. Had my mom\'s doctor paid more attention to the early symptoms, she could have started a treatment program much earlier. Stay strong and involve family and friends in your life. I\'ve seen people beat cancer and other diseases with their attitude of controlling the disease and not letting it control them. A strong mind and will can be very powerful.

I am a big believer in education however there is something to say when education becomes an obsession. I say learn what you can and set yourself up for any care you may need in the future. Save money and chosse a care agency and stipulate in writing exactly how you want to be cared for. It may relieve some of the stress you are feeling. But if you are spending time obsessing see a counselor for some help getting past it. Do not give up living if you do end up with Alzheimers you want to live as much as you can while you can enjoy telling the stories!

Hi,

I\'m not worrying about it really...it just plays at the back of my mind. It\'s just that seeing my Nanna suffering from it showed me what a cruel disease it really is and I don\'t think anyone can appreciate that about any condition until they witness it first hand.

Regards, Emma

You mentioned that your aunt does not have AD. It\'s an indication that not everyone in a family will get it, and remember, half of your genetic make-up comes from your dad. You are very young, hopefully in years to come medical science will be able to do more for AD. I\'d like to say \'don\'t worry about it, odds are that you won\'t get it\' but I know it is in the back of your mind anyway. But it\'s still accurate, odds are you won\'t get it. You have a good chance at a happy life ahead of you, try to concentrate on that.

i have had a lot of learning about alzheimers ever since my mom died from it, i also went to to 24 hour workshop on it. and i know one factor and important factor you have to keep your mind busy all the time for the most part. if one spends days not doing anything using your mind chances are especially if the gene is there it can be developed. one must keep the mind working at all cost.