Testing positive for a familial Alzheimer’s genetic mutation

A Youngtimers Guide ・ Last Reviewed Jul 2, 2025

This guide is for those who have learned that they (or a loved one) carry a genetic mutation for familial Alzheimer’s disease (FAD).

For many, receiving the results from a genetic test represents the end of one journey and the beginning of another. The decision about whether to test may have cast a cloud over your future plans before, but that’s now behind you. 

Now, you’re at the start of a new journey - living with the knowledge that you carry the genetic mutation for FAD.

We have spoken with members of the Youngtimers community who have tested positive for FAD genetics. In this guide, we share the themes of those conversations and insights to help you navigate this new chapter, answering questions such as:

• Where should I start after testing positive?

• Who should I share the results with?

• How should I talk to kids about FAD?

• What actions should I take now that I know I’m positive?

• How can I move forward with this new knowledge?