So why is it important to understand more about this disorder? Currently, it is estimated that 10% of people over age 65 have Alzheimer's disease and that over half of the U.S. population aged 85 and older suffers from it as well.

As far back as 2001, it was noted that Alzheimer's cost the federal government about $50 billion. And costs are expected to rise annually.

Either directly or indirectly, we are all touched by this disorder. The more we know about the early stages and symptoms, the more we can do to lessen its effects on sufferers ? and their families and friends.

In this article, you'll discover Alzheimer's early symptoms so you can take steps today to prevent further memory loss and cognitive decline in years to come.

So what are these 5 early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease ? and what can you do if you recognize them in yourself or someone you care about?

Brain longevity expert Dharma Singh Khalsa, M.D., who is also President and Medical Director of the non-profit Alzheimer's Research & Prevention Foundation or ARPF, shares his insights.

According to Dr. Dharma, the five early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease are:

1. Short-term memory loss

2. Judgment impairment

3. Disturbance or changes in personality

4. Some type of other neurological difficulty involving language, motor activities, sensation, or executive brain function

5. Some loss of long-term memory

While many of us will have experienced some of these symptoms from time to time, early Alzheimer's disease can be recognized when these 5 early symptoms begin to impair your life. One example of symptoms that significantly impact your life would be getting into your car regularly, only to forget where you are going.

If you recognize these 5 early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease in yourself or loved one, what steps should you take?

Well, along with visiting your doctor for examination and testing, take a proactive and integrative approach to treating early Alzheimer's disease.

According to Dr. Dharma and the ARPF, you should take action and change your habits in these 4 areas to help prevent further memory loss:

>> Diet and vitamins to feed your brain

>> Stress management to keep your cortisol level down

>> Exercise ? physical, mind/body, even brain aerobics

>> Pharmaceutical drugs to minimize symptoms

Please consult your doctor if you think you or someone you love is demonstrating impairment due to these initial symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.

By taking action now, you may be able to delay the full onset of Alzheimer's disease, so that its most devastating symptoms never fully develop. Armed with your knowledge of these 5 symptoms, you can begin to recognize the early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.