Alzheimer's Disease

Although there is, at present, no cure for Alzheimer's disease, a class of medications has been approved for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease in the United States, Japan, England, Italy, Canada, and many other countries. These medications are known as cholinesterase inhibitors. They improve memory by increasing levels of the chemical acetylcholine, which helps transmit messages in the brain. Another treatment for Alzheimer's disease is Vitamin E. In a widely cited study (Sano et al. 1997), results suggest that Vitamin E helps to delay the onset of symptoms. Research is also looking into the roles that other drug therapies may play in treating Alzheimer's disease, such as hormone replacement therapy and anti-inflammatory medications. The results of these research studies, however, have been inconclusive.

There are nonpharmacological treatments that can help both the person diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and family members. These include personal and family counseling, making modifications to living arrangements, and remaining active. There is evidently some truth to the old "use it or lose it" adage. Research has consistently shown that maintaining mental activity can help stave off Alzheimer's disease. For example, in a study of older nuns (Wilson et al. 2002), results suggest that active participation in cognitively stimulating activities reduces the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.