Alzheimer’s disease currently has no cure, or treatment to reverse the symptoms. There are some medications that may help on a short-term basis (6 months to a few years) to slow cognitive decline. As well as various drug and non-drug treatments that can help with behavior symptoms, for example sleeplessness.
Alzheimer’s disease is classified into various stages that range from mild to moderate to severe. At each stage the patient gets worse, and in the final stages, the patient is unable to communicate, becomes increasingly immobile and is completely dependent on others for care. The lifespan of Alzheimer patients is generally reduced. However, a patient could potentially live anywhere from 3 – 20 years after diagnosis.
Sources:
Alzheimer's Association. 19 Apr. 2011. Web. 22 Apr. 2011. <http://www.alz.org/index.asp>.
Alzheimer's Association. 19 Apr. 2011. Web. 22 Apr. 2011. <http://www.alz.org/index.asp>.
Simon, Harvey. "Alzheimer's Disease Background - Alzheimer's Disease Health Information - NY Times Health." Health News - The New York Times. 22 June 2010. Web. 16 Apr. 2011. <http://health.nytimes.com/health/guides/disease/alzheimers-disease/background.html>.
