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
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Protect your brain as you age
Research suggests that life-long learning, exercise and other strategies can help.
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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.
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Aging: When should I be concerned about a senior’s forgetfulness?
Adults dealing with aging parents face many challenges. Find answers to your frequently asked questions.
Getting Help
- Find a Psychologist
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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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Singing show tunes may help people with dementia
November 13, 2013, CBS News
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Can changes in the eyes help diagnose Alzheimer’s disease?
November 13, 2013, Fox News
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Alzheimer's insight from DNA study
October 27, 2013, BBC News
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Poor sleep linked to Alzheimer's brain plaques
October 22, 2013, CBS News
Monitor on Psychology Articles
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The pre-Alzheimer's brain
March 1, 2013
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Could Alzheimer's disease be a kind of diet-induced diabetes?
February 1, 2013
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Protecting your aging brain
October 1, 2011
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Memory keepers
June 1, 2011
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Another reason to break a sweat
June 1, 2010
Books
APA Offices and Programs
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Office on Aging
The Office on Aging is a coordination point for APA activities pertaining to aging and geropsychology (the field within psychology devoted to older adult issues). The Office on Aging also supports the work of the APA Committee on Aging.
