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"I'm just not myself." Are those words simply frustration on a bad day, or prophetic laments about what is looming just over the horizon? You are barely middle aged and you feel your life slipping away into a state of confusion. The motivation and ambition you once felt have all but disappeared. What could be wrong?

Alzheimer's is a progressive brain disorder which causes brain cells to degenerate and die. There are two types of Alzheimer's. Late On Set, which affects those 65 and older, and Early On Set which occurs at a much younger age. Only about 6% of Alzheimer's patients are in their 50s, or even younger. Chances are greater if a parent or grandparent had early onset, and the risk increases with age.

Early onset Alzheimer's affects memory, judgment and thought processes. Warning signs include, but are not limited to, memory loss, confusion, change in personality and behavior, decreased judgment, emotional apathy, social withdrawal and loss of motivation.

This disease impacts life at any age, but really plays havoc with early onset individuals because these younger victims are usually still in their careers and have children at home. It is not uncommon for early onset Alzheimer's patients to lose jobs and relationships before they are diagnosed. They suffer the additional torment of being totally misunderstood. Their condition is often chalked up to laziness or psychiatric problems.

In my own experience, with a close relative and also a dear friend stricken with this disease, I have read extensively about the subject. Two particular books will be helpful to anyone who suspects they, or a loved one, are at risk. The first is "There's Still A Person In There", and the second is "The 36 Hour Day."

If early onset of Alzheimer's disease is suspected, the following steps should be considered:

* Accurate diagnosis is crucial. The possibility of another type of dementia, which could potentially be curable with treatment and medication, must be ruled out.

* Contact the local chapter of The Alzheimer's Association for information on support groups for both patient and spouse. This is a life altering change for a spouse who is going from romantic partner to caregiver. Reach out to family, friends, clergy and Counseling for emotional support for yourself and your loved ones.

* Take good care of yourself. Pay special attention to proper diet and exercise. Have regular medical checkups and follow your doctor's advice concerning treatment and medications.

As this is a degenerative

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