Alzheimer’s disease robs people of their memory and takes away their ability to be independent.
Now, the Alzheimer's Association of Central Ohio says it's seeing early onset in more people under the age of 65.
Faye Moore admits that she sometimes forgets and needs her brother, Brian, to help.
Brian said he made sure that Faye moved into an apartment down the street from him, because with serious memory loss, she needs someone to watch over her.
It’s a role reversal for someone who raised four successful children.
“A lot of things I don't understand, and want so much for her to be the way she was,” said Brian Hall, Faye’s brother.
Faye was an independent woman who loved to travel and loved to work.
But as her struggle to remember became more profound, she had to give up her job.
“At some point they said ‘You're disabled, Faye. You're not going to be working anymore.’ It was hard to take,” she explained.
At the time, Faye was only in her mid-50s.
Doctors have diagnosed an estimated 200,000 Americans under 65 with Alzheimer's disease.
“We are seeing people diagnosed more and more with younger onset. We actually have started a new support group because the need has been so great,” said Mari Dannhauer, Alzheimer’s Association, Central Ohio Program Director.
Dannhauer said some of the people in those groups are in their 40s.
“I think it's just better diagnostic techniques and people are more aware of this condition,” said Dr. Doug Scharre, OSU Wexner Medical Center.
He said an earlier diagnosis means earlier medication which can slow the decline; but there is no cure.
Faye said that finding a cure is important so that people can live productive lives, continue to know their kids, live in peace and continue to hope and dream.
Faye keeps those words close and family closer.
“I love my children. I have good children. They help me,” said Faye.
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