Overview
Most Alzheimer's disease is not directly inherited. Genetic testing is most useful in younger-onset cases, strong family histories, or when considering disease-modifying therapy.
APOE
- APOE4 raises risk but many carriers never develop dementia
- Non-carriers can still develop Alzheimer's disease
- APOE4 status affects ARIA risk with amyloid-targeting therapy
Inherited dementias
- Rare autosomal dominant Alzheimer's genes and some FTD genes are directly inherited
- Genetic counseling should precede testing
- Results have implications for family members and should be discussed in advance
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Medically reviewed. Last reviewed August 2026. This page is educational information, not individualized medical advice.