Humans are born with 100 billion brain cells, reaching the peak at the age of 4. However, around the age of 12, brain cells begin to age and degenerate, decreasing in number. While some academic reports suggest that over 100,000 brain neurons die every day, the exact figure remains uncertain. However, the process and symptoms of neuron degeneration are well-documented. One clear fact is that if we assume a current age of 42, our brain neurons have already undergone 30 years of continuous aging and degeneration, even if we’ve lived a healthy and normal life. Furthermore, irregular modern lifestyles, stress, alcohol consumption, and smoking result in the loss of an unknown number of brain neurons at rates several or even dozens of times higher. Unfortunately, once a brain cell dies, it cannot be replaced or regenerated.

Brain neurons have transmission mediums called axons and dendrites. Similar to how computers or telephones transmit and receive information through cables, information acquired through the human senses is delivered to the brain. This information enters through the neuron’s dendrites, is processed within the cell, and then transmitted to other cells via axons. When brain neurons age and degenerate, one phenomenon that occurs is the disconnection of axons and dendrites, preventing information exchange. In childhood, we have a large number of active neurons, so even if some axons and dendrites are disconnected, information can still be transmitted through other neurons without issue. However, as mentioned earlier, with aging and damage to countless brain neurons, the disruption of these information pathways becomes so severe that connections take longer to find. As a result, this slowing leads to symptoms like forgetfulness and lapses in memory, which worsen over time.

The increasing forgetfulness that comes with age has been identified as an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease (dementia) in research published by academic institutions in the U.S. and around the world. While we might dismiss this forgetfulness as a natural occurrence of aging, it is indeed an early symptom of Alzheimer’s. Patients with Alzheimer’s start with frequent forgetfulness that gradually progresses into severe memory loss, ultimately impairing their ability to lead normal lives.

Let’s address misconceptions about Alzheimer’s prevention:

  • People who frequently use their brains and study hard won’t develop this disease.
  • Religious leaders who live spiritual lives are immune.
  • Athletes who exercise a lot are less likely to develop it.
  • Playing the piano helps prevent the disease.
  • Playing card games like Hwa-tu (a traditional Korean card game) is effective for prevention.

All of the above are misconceptions about Alzheimer’s prevention. None of these methods can prevent or cure the disease. Alzheimer’s does not discriminate based on social status, education, religion, health, gender, age, or profession. Professors dedicated to academics, spiritual leaders in religious fields, athletes symbolizing physical health, and artists rich in emotional expression like musicians and painters are all affected. A few years ago, former U.S. President Ronald Reagan also suffered from Alzheimer’s until his death. Similarly, many prominent pastors and Buddhist leaders have succumbed to the disease despite their spiritual and religious devotion.

Today, let us pause amidst our busy lives and reflect: How am I doing right now?