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Alzheimer's disease begins with a long period during which abnormal amyloid and tau proteins build up in the brain without yet causing any symptoms.

The first symptoms are usually mild. People may notice they are forgetting familiar words, misplacing objects, and starting to struggle with organizing, planning, socializing, and performing work tasks. It's still usually possible, however, to continue to work and fulfill normal daily tasks without assistance.

Family and close friends may begin to notice symptoms of mild cognitive impairment during the early stage of Alzheimer's disease, and the physician may ask about changes they notice to help make the diagnosis.

Getting a diagnosis can be emotionally difficult. Fear, denial, and anger are common. Support from family and friends, and even joining a support group can help in managing these feelings and coming to terms with the diagnosis to move forward and live a positive, fulfilling life.

"During the early stage, it's possible for people with dementia to live well by taking control of their health and wellness, and focusing their energy on aspects of their life that are most meaningful to them," according to the , which has online message boards and in-person chapter meetings in some regions for support.

Planning Ahead

While the period of time differs from person to person, the average duration from when abnormal proteins can be detected in the brain to when symptoms start to be noticeable is .

The early stage of Alzheimer's disease after symptoms begin is called (MCI). Again, the duration of this phase varies, but on average people have before the disease gets to the point of clinical dementia, when these individuals will need assistance with daily tasks. Another way to look at it is that over the course of 3 years, up to one-quarter of people with lower-risk MCI and more than half with higher-risk MCI may of the disease.

Now is a good time to start talking with the medical team about slowing the progress of the disease with early treatment options, which will be the topic of the next article in this series.

What to Do Now

However, there's plenty you can do for yourself or a loved one to during the early phase of Alzheimer's disease.

"Physical exercise can reduce global cognitive decline and lessen behavioral problems in people with MCI or dementia," according to a . It found that aerobic exercise done at moderate or greater intensity had a bigger effect on overall cognition. , such as spelling words backwards and forwards or saying the name of movements, has also been linked to better cognition for those with MCI.

Exercising the brain is also important. Reading and writing, working on crossword puzzles, and staying socially engaged can all help preserve cognition. Work to get enough sleep and address any sleep disorders, like sleep apnea. Get hearing aids, if needed. Diet can help too, with some studies supporting a plant-based or antioxidant-rich diet.

"In addition, this is the ideal time to put legal, financial, and end-of-life plans in place, because the person with dementia will be able to participate in decision-making," the Alzheimer's Association notes.

Read previous installments in this series:

For Your Patients: What Is Alzheimer's Disease?

For Your Patients: How Is Alzheimer's Disease Diagnosed?

For Your Patients: The Stages of Alzheimer's Disease

"Medical Journeys" is a set of clinical resources reviewed by doctors, meant for physicians and other healthcare professionals as well as the patients they serve. Each episode of this journey through a disease state contains both a physician guide and a downloadable/printable patient resource. "Medical Journeys" chart a path each step of the way for physicians and patients and provide continual resources and support, as the caregiver team navigates the course of a disease.