Happy & Healthy with Amy

Early Warning Signs of Alzheimer's: What's Normal Aging vs Cause For Concern

Amy Lang Season 1 Episode 284

If you’ve noticed subtle changes in your memory or seen them in someone you love, this episode is a must-listen.

I’m breaking down the earliest signs of Alzheimer’s, what’s normal, what’s not—and the powerful things you can do today to protect your brain health long before symptoms become severe.

🎧 What to Listen For:

  • [02:00] A personal story about Amy’s mom and the memory mistake that raised a red flag
  • [05:00] What happens in your brain decades before Alzheimer’s symptoms appear
  • [06:00] The continuum of cognitive decline: from mild memory lapses to dementia
  • [08:00] The biology of Alzheimer’s—how plaques, tangles, and inflammation disrupt memory
  • [09:00] Common memory-related warning signs (and how they differ from normal aging)
  • [13:00] Gene Hackman’s forgotten tradition—why it’s more than just “old age”
  • [14:00] Language challenges that may signal something more serious than brain fog
  • [16:00] Executive function changes—when multitasking and decision-making decline
  • [20:00] Mood and personality changes that may point to early Alzheimer’s
  • [23:30] What to do if you're seeing multiple signs in yourself or someone else

The early signs of Alzheimer’s aren’t always obvious—but understanding what’s normal and what’s not can make all the difference. The earlier you recognize the signs, the more time you have to take action.

Want to learn what you can do to reduce your risk starting now? Be sure to register for my free masterclass, 5 Keys to Protecting Your Brain Health, and subscribe to the show for more science-backed insights. Let’s stay proactive, together.


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