Alzheimer's Disease: Early Recognition, Treatment and Prevention Strategies

Course overview

Alzheimers disease is a progressive, deteriorating disease that affects memory with symptoms of dementia that worsen over time. Memory loss is initially diagnosed as mild, and as the disease progresses, end-stage or late-stage symptoms can include an inability to communicate or respond to people or situations. The lifespan of a person with Alzheimers disease (AD) varies based on lifestyle and general physical health, but the current death rate is higher than other common causes of disease and death like heart disease and stroke. Because AD remains an incurable condition, treatment is focused on symptoms and quality of life needs. Alzheimers disease is on the rise worldwide and in the United States. There is a pressing need to improve access to care for AD patients and support for caregivers and families.