Alzheimer's Disease Causes, Stages, and Symptoms (cont.)Medical Author:
Howard Crystal, MD
Medical Editor:
William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACRDr. Shiel received a Bachelor of Science degree with honors from the University of Notre Dame. There he was involved in research in radiation biology and received the Huisking Scholarship. After graduating from St. Louis University School of Medicine, he completed his Internal Medicine residency and Rheumatology fellowship at the University of California, Irvine. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology. Medical Editor:
Jay W. Marks, MD
Jay W. Marks, MDJay W. Marks, MD, is a board-certified internist and gastroenterologist. He graduated from Yale University School of Medicine and trained in internal medicine and gastroenterology at UCLA/Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. In this Article
 For More Information on Alzheimer's DiseaseSeveral organizations offer caregivers information about Alzheimer's disease. To learn more about support groups, services, research, and additional publications, you may wish to contact the following groups: Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center The National Institute on Aging's ADEAR Center offers information and publications for families, caregivers, and professionals on diagnosis, treatment, patient care, caregiver needs, long-term care, education and training, and research related to Alzheimer's disease. Staff members answer telephone, email, and written requests and make referrals to local and national resources. The ADEAR website offers free, online publications in English and Spanish; email alert and online Connections newsletter subscriptions; an Alzheimer's disease clinical trials database; the Alzheimer's Disease Library database; and more. Alzheimer's Association The Alzheimer's Association is a national nonprofit association with a network of local chapters that provide education and support for people diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, their families, and caregivers. The Association also supports research on Alzheimer's. Alzheimer's Foundation of America The Alzheimer's Foundation of America provides care and services to individuals confronting dementia and to their caregivers and families through member organizations dedicated to improving quality of life. Services include a toll-free hotline, consumer publications and other educational materials, and conferences and workshops. Ageless Design This organization offers books, videos, a newsletter, and other products for caregivers of people with Alzheimer's disease. American Red Cross The Red Cross offers health information, health services, disaster relief, and emergency services to the public. Local chapters provide programs for older people, including safety courses and home nurse care instruction. Children of Aging Parents This nonprofit group provides information and materials for adult children caring for their older parents. Caregivers of people with Alzheimer's disease may also find this information helpful. Eldercare Locator Eldercare Locator is a nationwide directory-assistance service helping older people and their caregivers locate local support and resources. It is funded by the U.S. Administration on Aging, whose website at www.aoa.gov also features Alzheimer's information for families, caregivers, and health professionals. Family Caregiver Alliance The Family Caregiver Alliance is a nonprofit organization that offers support services and information for people caring for adults with Alzheimer's, stroke, traumatic brain injuries, and other cognitive disorders. Well Spouse Association This nonprofit organization gives support to spouses and partners of people who are chronically ill and/or disabled. It offers support groups and a newsletter. The National Institute on Aging gratefully acknowledges the caring staff of the Alzheimer's Disease Research Center at the University of California, San Diego, and the Alzheimer's Association of San Diego, who shared their valuable advice, experience, and expertise to create this booklet. Previous Contributing Medical Author: Yuri Bronstein, M.D. and Medical Editor: Stefan M. Pulst, M.D. Last Editorial Review: 7/27/2010 Patient CommentsViewers share their comments
Alzheimer's Disease - Dementia
Question: Has a friend or relative been diagnosed with dementia? What are her/his symptoms?
Alzheimer's Disease - Warning Signs
Question: Do you have any of the warning signs of Alzheimer's? Please discuss your symptoms and concerns.
Alzheimer's Disease - Home Safety
Question: In what ways have you made the home safer for a friend or relative with Alzheimer's disease?
Alzheimer's Disease - Medications
Question: If your relative is on a medication for Alzheimer's, what changes have you noticed?
Alzheimer's Disease - Driving
Question: What motivated you to take away the keys or car from your loved one who has Alzheimer's?
Alzheimer's Disease - Prognosis
Question: What is the prognosis for your friend or relative who has Alzheimer's disease?
Alzheimer's Disease - Describe Your Experience
Question: Please describe the symptoms you or loved one experienced with Alzheimer's disease.
Alzheimer's Disease - Treatments
Question: What stage of Alzheimer's disease are you or your loved one currently experiencing, and have any treatments been effective?
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