If you have a loved one who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, many concerns arise. First, of course, you are worried about your family member. But you may also be wondering if Alzheimer’s is genetic and therefore hereditary. While genetic history does influence your chances of developing Alzheimer’s, that is far from a complete picture.
Yes, genes may have a role to play in the development of Alzheimer’s disease.

Science has identified several genes that may contribute to a person’s Alzheimer’s risk. However, it is essential to note that this does not mean that you will develop the condition if someone in your family has been diagnosed.

  • Risk Genes: According to the Alzheimer’s Association, APOE-e4 is the gene with the most significant known influence on the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. APOE-e4 may be a factor in 40 to 65 percent of Alzheimer’s patients. An individual who inherits this gene from one or both parents has a higher risk of developing the disease.
  • Deterministic Genes: Scientists have also identified deterministic genes which directly cause Alzheimer’s disease. These are exceptionally rare, representing less than 1% of Alzheimer’s cases worldwide. However, these genes do result in a familial early-onset form of Alzheimer’s disease in a few hundred extended families.

Family History and Genetic Risk: An individual is more at risk for Alzheimer’s if an immediate family member had the disease. The risk increases with the number of family members diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. The higher the number of patients in the family, the greater the risk for the rest of the family. However, the Alzheimer’s Association points out that external environmental factors may also cause high family incidence.

In Alzheimer’s cases that manifest after age 65, it appears the cause goes well beyond genetic. According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), Alzheimer’s which occurs after that age is more likely the result of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors – combined.

Reducing Your Risk

Some risk factors cannot be controlled – such as aging. However, several risk factors are within the realm of your control and may minimize the odds of developing Alzheimer’s:

  • Heart Health and Alzheimer’s: A compelling amount of research proves a connection between heart disease and high blood pressure with an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. More studies are needed to understand the relationship between the two. Can staying heart-healthy reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s? It appears there is a connection, and keeping your body healthy should always be a top priority.
  • Head Trauma: Evidence is mounting that sustaining a serious head injury may point to a higher risk of Alzheimer’s in the future. Mild head injuries that occur repeatedly – or a single severe event that causes a loss of consciousness – appear to be risk factors. (Read more about how to retrofit your home to prevent falls. )
  • Maintain an Engaged Life:  Remaining connected with family and friends and keeping the brain mentally stimulated are also associated with a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s.
  • Practice Good Habits: Seniors should do their best to exercise regularly, eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, quit tobacco use, and minimize alcohol consumption. A healthy mind often follows a healthy body.

If you or a loved one is looking for a professional, safe and compassionate place to live – whether assisted living or memory care – come tour the facilities at A Banyan Residence of Venice.