Alzheimer's Disease

Introduction to Alzheimer's Disease Alzheimer's disease is a progressive condition that damages areas of the brain involved in memory, intelligence, judgment, language, and behavior. It is the most common form of dementia (mental decline) in older adults. The causes of Alzheimer’s disease are not known, and there is no cure. Alzheimer's disease usually begins after age 60, and risk goes up with age. On average, Alzheimer's disease patients live from 8 to 10 years after they are diagnosed, though the disease can last for as many as 20 years. It is important to note that Alzheimer's disease is not a normal part of aging. recommended reading These articles provide in-depth information and are written to help you make the best healthcare decisions for you and your loved ones. Patient Information • Alzheimer's Disease • Dementia decision points When dealing with an illness or health problem, you have to make decisions—when to call a doctor, which test to have, and what treatment to use. Decision Points are designed to help you learn about your choices and options, and to prepare you to work with your healthcare provider to make the best decision for your care. • Should I put my relative with Alzheimer's or other dementia in a nursing home? tests & procedures You doctor may recommend one or more of the following tests to evaluate your condition. • Electroencephalography (EEG) • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) • Mental status exam For other tests and diagnostic procedures use the section of this site called Medical Tests A to Z . RELATED TOPICS Being A Caregiver • Caregiver Tips • Guide to the Family and Medical Leave Act • Stress Management DSM The DSM is a reference book used by psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and other health and mental health care providers to understand and diagnose a mental health problem. • Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia DSM Related Conditions • Anxiety • Confusion, Memory Loss, and Altered Alertness • Depression • Down Syndrome • Parkinson's Disease End-of-Life Care and Alzheimer’s Disease • End-of-Life Care • Choosing a Health Care Agent • Grief and Grieving • Hospice Care • Writing an Advance Directive medication center medication assistance This section provides you with an alphabetical listing of more than 1,000 medications, including prescription drugs and those you can purchase over-the-counter. Just select your medications to learn more about them. You can choose your medication by brand name or generic name. • Medications A-Z If you are having difficulty paying for your medications you may qualify for financial assistance or free medications. Visit the Medication Assistance Center to learn about available medication and insurance programs. Don't let financial problems stop you from getting the treatment you need; there are resources and organizations that may be able to help you. additional resources This listing provides you with Internet sites that are sponsored by government agencies or are well-known and credible national organizations. • Administration on Aging • Alzheimer's Association • Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral Center • Family Caregiver Alliance • MEDLINEplus—Alzheimer’s Disease • MEDLINEplus—Alzheimer’s Caregivers Surfing the Internet When looking at Internet sites, remember that the information can be sponsored by anyone. Take into account the sponsoring group or individual when gathering information or help. Be especially careful about giving out personal or financial information. Learn more about surfing the web: Guide to Healthy Web Surfing – a resource from the National Library of Medicine INFORMACIÓN EN ESPAÑOL • Depresión - [Depression] • Problemas de salud mental - [Mental Health Problems] • Suicidio - [Suicide] Last modified on: 30 June 2015