Alzheimer's Disease is most common form of dementia, according to the Alzheimer's Association.

The association recently issued a report revealing that 5.3 million Americans have Alzheimer's Disease. The report also showed that women are more likely to be afflicted than men.

Although more and more awareness is being raised about the disease, diagnosing it is more complicated than a blood test.

"Alzheimer's cannot be definitively diagnosed until autopsy," said Debbie Casias, Alzheimer's Care Director at Golden Living Center-Kinzua.

Instead, she said, the doctors often rule out other ailments which could cause cognitive difficulties. Because there is not a specific test and early-onset Alzheimer's can affect people under the age of 65, the Alzheimer's association recommends looking out for the following warning signs:

Memory changes that disrupt 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 or personality.

Casias admits that some of the warning signs are common with getting older. However, she said, "When it starts affecting day to day life, it's not normal."

There is no cure for the disease. But drug and non-drug treatments may help with both cognitive and behavioral symptoms.

"Medications can slow progression," Casias said. Because of that, early detection of the warning signs is important.

To raise awareness and funds for research, the Alzheimer's association hosts the Memory Walk every year. Locally, the walk will be held at the Rouse Estate on Saturday, Oct. 2, 2010 with registration 8:30 a.m. and the walk beginning at 9 a.m.