5. What Can You Do?
Our knowledge is growing rapidly as scientists expand their understanding of the many factors involved in the development of AD. Even though no treatments, drugs, or pills have yet been proven to prevent AD or even delay its development, people can take some actions that might reduce the effect of possible AD risk factors. These actions include:
- lowering cholesterol and homocysteine levels
- lowering high blood pressure levels
- controlling diabetes
- exercising regularly
- engaging in social and intellectually stimulating activities
All of these strategies are good to do anyway because they lower risk of other diseases and help maintain and improve overall health and well-being. However, it is important to remember that pursuing any of these strategies will not necessarily prevent or delay AD in any one individual. Even if the strategies were eventually proven to be effective, they might not offset a person’s individual genetic and other risk factors enough to prevent AD from developing.
Another important action a person can take is to volunteer for the Genetics Study, the Neuroimaging Initiative, or an AD clinical trial. People who participate in these studies say that the biggest benefit is having regular contact with experts on AD who have lots of practical experience and a broad perspective on the disease. They also feel they are making a valuable contribution to future knowledge that will help scientists, people with AD, and their families. Families interested in participating in the Genetics Study can call the National Cell Repository for Alzheimer’s Disease (NCRAD) toll-free at 1-800-526-2839. Information may also be requested through its website at http://ncrad.iu.edu. People who are interested in joining the Neuroimaging Initiative or an AD clinical trial should contact the ADEAR Center at www.alzheimers.nia.nih.gov, or call ADEAR toll-free at 1-800-438-4380 for a referral to the nearest participating study site.
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