About Alzheimer’s
and Dementia
Understanding dementia and the resources available in Maine is an important first step.
What is Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia?
Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disease that worsens over time and causes dementia, which is a general term used to describe changes in memory, thinking, and behavior that interfere with daily life. It is not a normal part of aging.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for up to 80% of cases. There are also other types of dementia, including vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia.
Learn more about Alzheimer’s and dementia.
10 Early Signs of Dementia
Learn to recognize these 10 early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia to support early detection and timely care.
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life
- Challenges in planning or solving problems
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks
- Confusion with time or place
- Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
- New problems with words in speaking or writing
- Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
- Decreased or poor judgment
- Withdrawal from work or social activities
- Changes in mood and personality
Why Early Detection Matters
Recognizing early signs and talking with a doctor can help people access support, plan for the future, and maintain quality of life.
Learn more about the benefits of early detection.
Brain Health and Dementia Risk
Several factors can influence brain health, including chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity.
Taking steps to manage these conditions and lead a healthy lifestyle may help reduce the risk of dementia.
Explore the 10 healthy habits for your brain.
Resources and Support
If you are seeking information, support, or services related to dementia:
- Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800-272-3900) for free, around-the-clock support from trained specialists. The Helpline offers information, local resources, crisis assistance, and emotional support for individuals living with dementia, caregivers, families, and the public.
- Connect with your local Area Agency on Aging through the Aging & Disability Resource Center (877-353-3771) for dementia-related services and supports. Maine’s Area Agencies on Aging offer information, benefits counseling, service coordination, and guidance for families and caregivers. You can also visit their online access navigator to explore services and resources.
- Visit our Resources Page for additional online information for individuals, caregivers, and health professionals.
Building a Dementia-Capable Maine
The Maine CDC’s Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias Prevention and Support Program works to promote brain health, support early detection and diagnosis, and strengthen services for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers.
Key focus areas include:
- Increasing public awareness about dementia and brain health
- Promoting early detection and diagnosis
- Supporting caregivers and health care providers
- Building stronger connections across public health, health care, and community services
These efforts are guided by the Maine State Plan on Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias and align with national public health priorities like the Healthy Brain Initiative State and Local Road Map for Public Health.
A major part of this work is carried out through the Maine Healthy Brain Initiative Coalition, a statewide network of partners from health care, public health, aging services, research, and advocacy organizations. The Coalition brings together diverse expertise to advance dementia prevention, improve care and support systems, and address dementia-related issues faced by our communities.
Have Questions?
Contact Us Today
Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia Prevention and Support Program
Marissa Romano, MPH
Program Manager
marissa.romano@maine.gov