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Alzheimer's Disease

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Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an illness of the brain. It damages nerve cells in the brain. This affects your ability to remember things, think clearly, and care for yourself. AD begins slowly, and symptoms get worse with time. Ultimately, a person with AD might need total care. For some people in the early or middle stages of AD, medication may keep symptoms from getting worse for a limited time.

AD usually begins after age 65, and risk goes up with age. The risk is also higher if a family member has had AD.

Scientists are learning more and more about AD. Yet the cause and the secrets to preventing it are not yet known. Several recent, large studies have found a possible link between factors related to heart disease and AD. These studies suggest that a hearth-healthy lifestyle also might protect against AD.

Additional Resources

Publications

1.   Alzheimer's Disease Centers Program Directory — The National Institute on Aging funds Alzheimer’s Disease Centers (ADCs) at major medical institutions across the Nation. Researchers at ADCs are working to translate research advances into improved diagnosis and care for people with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), as well as to find a cure and possibly a way to prevent AD.

   http://www.alzheimers.org/adcdir.htm

2.   Alzheimer's Disease Fact Sheet — This fact sheet discusses how Alzheimer's disease is not a normal part of aging. It describes the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and care for those with Alzheimer's disease.

   http://www.nia.nih.gov/Alzheimers/Publications/adfact.htm

3.   Alzheimer's Disease Medications Fact Sheet — This publication provides information on the medications used to treat mild to severe forms of Alzheimer's disease. In addition, it explains the recommended dosages and the possible side effects.

   http://www.nia.nih.gov/Alzheimers/Publications/medicationsfs.htm

4.     Alzheimer's Disease: Unraveling the Mystery — This booklet provides illustrations of how a healthy brain looks and works, explains what happens in a brain affected by Alzheimer’s disease, and describes current research. It also includes a list of publications and resources that family members and caregivers may find useful.

   http://www.nia.http://www.nia.nih.gov/NR/rdonlyres/0FA2EE06-0074-4C45-BAA3-34D56170EB8B/0/Unraveling_final....

5.   Can Alzheimer's Disease Be Prevented? — This brochure explains risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) that can’t be controlled, our genes and aging. It also looks at a number of health, lifestyle, and environmental factors, such as high blood pressure and social engagement, that may play a role in developing and/or preventing AD.

   http://www.nia.nih.gov/Alzheimers/Publications/ADPrevented/

6.   Home Safety for People With Alzheimer's Disease — This booklet is for those who provide in-home care for people with Alzheimer’s disease or related disorders. The goal is to improve home safety by identifying potential problems in the home and offering possible solutions to help prevent accidents.

   http://www.nia.nih.gov/Alzheimers/Publications/homesafety.htm

Organizations

1.   Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral Center, NIA, NIH, HHS
2.   National Institute on Aging Information Center, NIA, NIH, HHS
3. Alzheimer's Association

= Indicates Federal Resources