Family History of Alzheimer's: Using FamilySearch

Discovering Family History of Alzheimer's on FamilySearch

This guide will help you use FamilySearch to explore your family's history for indicators of Alzheimer's disease.

Step 1: Start Building Your Family Tree

Begin by creating or expanding your family tree. This is the foundation for discovering any patterns of health conditions.

• Go to the FamilySearch website and sign in.
• Navigate to the "Family Tree" section.
• Add yourself as the primary person.
• Enter information about your parents, grandparents, and other known relatives. Include full names, dates of birth, and dates of death if applicable.

Step 2: Reviewing Individual Profiles

Once your family tree is populated, examine individual profiles for clues about their health history.

• Click on a person in your tree to view their profile.
• Look for any notes or records that might indicate health issues.
• Check the "Details" tab for any vital information, such as cause of death, which might be listed on death certificates or other records.

Step 3: Searching Records

Use FamilySearch's record search to find documents related to your ancestors.

• From the FamilySearch homepage, go to the "Search" menu and select "Records."
• Enter the name of the ancestor you are researching, along with any relevant dates or locations.
• Filter your search by record type, such as "Birth," "Marriage," or "Death" records.
• Examine the search results for any records that might mention health conditions or causes of death.

Step 4: Utilizing the FamilySearch Wiki

The FamilySearch Wiki can provide valuable background information on researching specific localities and record types.

• From the FamilySearch homepage, go to the "Search" menu and select "Wiki."
• Search for the region where your ancestors lived.
• Look for information about local records, archives, and genealogical societies that might hold relevant health information.

Step 5: Adding and Sharing Information

Contribute to FamilySearch by adding information and sources to your family tree.

• As you find records or information about your ancestors' health, add it to their profiles.
• Attach sources to each piece of information to document where you found it.
• Share your findings with other family members and collaborate to build a more complete picture of your family's health history.