Cook County Health Recognizes Brain Health

We can all be a little forgetful at times, but when should someone be concerned?

Many people know a loved one who has suffered from a decline in memory, or has had dementia or Alzheimer's disease. This is often difficult to see.

June is Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month, and Cook County Health recognizes there are many seniors in Cook County living with this disease and wants to bring awareness to the importance of maintaining brain health.

Every 65 seconds in the U.S., someone develops Alzheimer's disease, which kills more people than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined.

What is the difference between dementia and Alzheimer's? Are they the same? How do I know when to seek medical attention?

According to the Alzheimer's Association, "Alzheimer's disease is a degenerative brain disease and the most common form of dementia. Dementia is not a specific disease. It's an overall term that describes a group of symptoms."

Some of the most common signs and symptoms of Alzheimer's include memory loss that interrupts your daily life, challenges with solving problems and planning, confusion with times and places, and difficulty with carrying out familiar tasks at home, work or other day-to-day settings.

If you are concerned about a loved one and want to get in contact with one of our providers, visit our website cookcountyhealth.org for more information.