Dementia is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that significantly impairs memory, thinking, and daily functioning in older adults, with Alzheimer’s disease representing the most common form. Despite extensive research, effective disease‑modifying treatments remain limited, and many therapeutic candidates are still undergoing clinical trials. Consequently, there is growing emphasis on early detection and prevention as key strategies to improve outcomes for individuals and their caregivers. This narrative review examines the benefits of identifying dementia at its earliest stages, particularly Alzheimer’s disease, and explores how lifestyle factors and caregiving practices may influence the course of the illness. A systematic literature search was conducted using resources from the World Health Organization, National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Aging, Boston University Alzheimer’s research, Mayo Clinic disease research, and the North Shore Community College library database, focusing primarily on peer‑reviewed studies published between 2019 and 2026, with select earlier work for context. Seventeen articles were included based on their relevance to early diagnostic accuracy, detection timelines, and modifiable risk factors. The review synthesizes evidence on the roles of physical activity, diet, cognitive engagement, and caregiver support in mitigating symptoms and enhancing quality of life. Overall, the findings highlight the importance of timely diagnosis, informed caregiving, and lifestyle interventions, while also underscoring ongoing gaps in research and the need for continued innovation in dementia therapeutics.
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