In France, Alzheimer’s disease poses a major public health challenge, affecting a growing number of people each year. According to the latest data from France Alzheimer (2025), nearly 1.4 million people are living with the disease in France today, and the Ministry of Health’s National Strategy for Neurodegenerative Diseases 2025-2030 even cites 1.5 million people directly affected by neurodegenerative diseases as a whole. The figures show that it predominantly affects older adults, with 15% of the population over 80 years old affected. Moreover, it remains the leading cause of severe dependence among the elderly. Notably, it affects women about twice as often as men, a disparity confirmed by the latest epidemiological studies. More than 2 million caregivers are currently providing daily support to a loved one who is ill.
Alzheimer’s Disease: The Symptoms
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects cognitive functions, especially memory. Symptoms can vary from person to person and evolve over time. Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, meaning that symptoms typically worsen over time.
Alzheimer’s Symptoms: What You Need to Know
Memory loss
Short-term memory disturbances are often among the first signs of Alzheimer’s disease. Those affected may forget recently learned information, forget the names of relatives and friends, or get lost in familiar places.
Planning and organizational difficulties:
People with Alzheimer’s may have trouble planning tasks or organizing daily activities. They may also struggle to manage their finances.
Language problems
The ability to find the right words, follow a conversation, or understand language may deteriorate progressively.
Disorientation in time and space
Individuals with Alzheimer’s may become disoriented about time and place, not knowing what day of the week it is or getting lost in familiar surroundings.
Difficulties performing familiar tasks
Daily activities such as cooking, getting dressed, or personal care can become increasingly challenging to carry out.
Changes in behavior and personality
People with Alzheimer’s may develop behavioral changes such as irritability, depression, anxiety, agitation, mistrust of others, apathy, or aggression. They may have difficulty making sound decisions or accurately assessing situations.
Motor difficulties
In the later stages of the disease, individuals with Alzheimer’s may experience problems with motor coordination, walking, and swallowing.
Loss of cognitive abilities
As the disease progresses, cognitive abilities steadily weaken, potentially leading to loss of independence and a total reliance on care.
It is essential to consult a health professional for an accurate diagnosis. There are medications and therapeutic interventions that can help manage certain symptoms and slow progression in some cases. However, early screening remains a major issue: according to several recent studies, a substantial portion of people with the disease has not yet been formally diagnosed, delaying the implementation of appropriate support.
Understanding and Managing Alzheimer’s Disease: A Challenge for Scientists and Society
While the origin of Alzheimer’s disease remains an unresolved mystery, substantial advances have been made over decades in understanding the underlying mechanisms and the progression of brain damage associated with this condition.
Alzheimer’s disease is complex, arising from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Age remains the principal risk factor, but a small proportion of cases (about 1%) are attributed to specific genetic mutations that trigger early onset of symptoms. Risk factors such as cardiovascular problems, diabetes, hypertension, smoking, and sedentary lifestyle may also contribute to the development of the disease.
Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, as neuron destruction cannot be halted. Nevertheless, a comprehensive, individualized, and early management approach exists to slow symptom progression, delay dependence, and improve the quality of life for patients and their families.
A Growing Societal Challenge
Facing an aging population, projections are worrying: the number of people affected in France could continue to rise sharply over the coming decades, notably due to the expected doubling of those aged over 85 by 2050. Economically, dementia care now costs roughly 32 billion euros per year in France, blending medical expenses with unpaid assistance provided by loved ones.
Aware of this challenge, the Government launched in September 2025 a National Strategy for Neurodegenerative Diseases 2025-2030, aimed at improving prevention, early diagnosis, and support for patients as well as their caregivers. A helpful reminder: beyond medical treatments, caregiver support, home adaptations, and maintaining social connections remain essential levers to preserve the quality of life for those affected.
