In-Depth
Dementia
Definition
- Early-onset Alzheimer's: When symptoms begin before age 65 Early-onset Alzheimer's is a rare disorder linked to three genes. Get tips for coping.
Risk factors
- Alzheimer's genes: Are you at risk? What role does genetics play in developing Alzheimer's? Are you at risk?
- Diabetes and Alzheimer's linked Diabetes may increase your risk of Alzheimer's. Reduce this risk with diet and exercise.
Symptoms
- Alzheimer's stages: How the disease progresses Alzheimer's stages — common behaviors as the disease progresses.
- Alzheimer's or depression: Could it be both? Alzheimer's and depression have some similar symptoms. Proper treatment improves quality of life.
- Memory loss: When to seek help Memory loss may indicate normal aging, a treatable condition or the onset of dementia.
Tests and diagnosis
- EEG (electroencephalogram) EEG (electroencephalogram) — Overview covers definition, risks, results of this diagnostic test.
- Diagnosing Alzheimer's: An interview with a Mayo Clinic specialist Diagnosing Alzheimer's — A Mayo Clinic specialist explains the process and importance of early detection.
Treatments and drugs
- Alzheimer's: Drugs help manage symptoms Alzheimer's drugs can help manage symptoms, but not cure the disease.
- Alzheimer's treatments: What's on the horizon? Alzheimer's treatments now being studied include an Alzheimer's vaccine and several new drugs.
Alternative medicine
- Pet therapy: Man's best friend as healer Pet therapy isn't just fun and games. A growing field, animal-assisted therapy has proven health benefits.
Coping and support
- Caregiver stress: Tips for taking care of yourself Fight caregiver stress and prevent burnout by taking time to take care of yourself.
- Caregiving: Tips for long-distance caregivers Caregiving — How to care for a loved one from afar.
- Palliative care: Symptom relief during illness Palliative care — A holistic approach to improving quality of life during serious illness.
- Adult day service: What you need to know Adult day service — Find out if it's right for your loved one.
Prevention
- Home safety tips: Preparing for Alzheimer's caregiving Home safety tips for Alzheimer's caregivers — Understand how to prevent dangerous situations.


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