In some cases, the patient is injected with a special dye to make abnormal tissue more evident. It will be of great assistance to your physician for you or a family member to document your symptoms and behavior over time, and report it to him or her on a regular basis. This will help track the nature and schedule of progression. Currently there is no cure or long-term treatment for Alzheimer's. There are, however, some medications and strategies to help alleviate symptoms which have proved especially effective in reducing anxiety, improving sleep and enabling participation in various life activities.
Some medications result in a small, transient improvement in memory.
Also, good planning and far-sighted medical and social management can be most helpful in easing the burdens and anxiety this disease causes patients and their caregivers. Key among these considerations is involving the patient in healthcare directives and decisions as long as he or she has the capacity to do so. Physical exercise, social activity, proper nutrition, and a familiar, calm and well-structured environment may help the patient to continue functioning longer and better. According to the Alzheimer's Association, scientists are applying the latest knowledge and research techniques in molecular genetics, pathology, immunology, toxicology, neurology, psychiatry, pharmacology, biochemistry and epidemiology to find causes, treatments, and, eventually, a cure. By the end of the 20th century, more than 50 major medical research centers across the country were conducting studies to evaluate an investigational treatment to slow the progression of memory loss in patients with Alzheimer's Disease.