Library patrons learned the importance of early detection for a disease that could potentially bankrupt America's Medicare system.

Nichols Library recently hosted a presentation by the Alzheimer's Association, focusing on educating the public on early detection of Alzheimer's as well as the difference between that disease and other types of dementia.

Over five million Americans suffer from Alzheimer's, a number that is expected to grow to 15 million by 2050 at which point the cost of care could reach $1.2 trillion.

Early signs of the disease include memory changes that disrupt daily life, difficulty completing familiar tasks, withdrawal from work or social activities, or misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps.

"One in three baby boomers will know someone with Alzheimer's in their retirement years, and that affects the entire community. Alzheimer's doesn't affect just the individual it affects the entire family, and that family unfortunately can become isolated from the whole community. The community loses because of the isolation of Alzheimer's," said Mike Bios of the Alzheimer's Association.

Every case is different. If you have any concerns you should contact your doctor.

The association holds the "Walk to End" Alzheimer's on September 22nd. To register head over to alz.org.

Natalie Vitale reports.