Alzheimer's
Alzheimer’s disease is a chronic brain disease that gradually erodes an individual’s memory, intellectual abilities and personality.
During the early stages, the most obvious symptom is an inability to learn and remember new information.
In advanced stages, the ability to think, speak or perform such basic tasks as getting dressed or eating is severely impaired. The time between diagnosis and death typically ranges from seven to 10 years.
Adapted from the Encyclopedia of Psychology
What You Can Do
- Protect your brain as you age
Research suggests that life-long learning, exercise and other strategies can help.
- Enhance your memory
Alzheimer's disease can leave people struggling with basic tasks. But some strategies can help you or a loved one compensate for mild memory loss.
Getting Help
- Find a Psychologist
- Testing for Alzheimer's
Because early intervention can help prevent damage, psychologists are searching for tests to detect Alzheimer's even before symptoms appear.
News
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Report: Minorities more likely to suffer Alzheimer's disease
March 9, 2010, USA Today
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Purpose in life may lower Alzheimer's risk
March 1, 2010, Medical News Today
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The hope of music's healing powers
March 1, 2010, Los Angeles Times
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Are mental lapses a sign of Alzheimer’s disease?
January 19, 2010, Science Daily
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Some hypertension drugs may lessen dementia risk
January 18, 2010, The Boston Globe
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Memory Grows Less Efficient Very Early in Alzheimer's Disease
May 4, 2009
Monitor on Psychology Articles
- Removing fear, promoting joy
December 2009
- A new test for early-stage dementia
September 2008
