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Most common form of dementia, Alzheimer’s, is also called Senile Dementia of the Alzheimer Type (SDAT). This condition was first discovered in 1906. It is known to affect people above 65 years of age. Today, about 27 million people suffer from SDAT.

Early symptoms may be noted up to 8 years, before onset of clinical SDAT. Symptoms include fall in cognitive abilities, memory loss and apathy. There are four stages of dementia,

· Pre dementia

· Early Dementia

· Moderate Dementia

· Advanced Dementia

In last stage, patient begins to forget how to speak, are unable to complete simplest tasks without assistance and death comes not by this condition, but by some other external disease like pneumonia etc. There is no clear research to indicate that this condition may result from genetic factors. Various tests like MRI, CAT Scan, PET, SPECT are used to diagnose this disease.

Prevention is not a very strong possibility as there is no clear research to validate that prevention is possible. Still, there are few studies which have linked various activities like intellectual activities, cardiovascular health, certain pharma products, to dementia. There are few drugs based on these studies, which may help delay or prevent onset of Alzheimer’s disease.

Various diseases like hypertension, diabetes, conditions related to smoking should be kept under control. This is very crucial in avoiding the onset of AD. No clear treatment is possible once a patient contracts SDAT. Treatment is done using pharmaceutical, psychosocial and care giving approaches.

US FDA has approved 4 medications for treatment of SDAT. Psychological intervention requires intellectual as well as cognitive stimulation. Since with time, a patient suffering from this condition deteriorates and may not be able to function at all, it is essential that he/she gets proper care and support. Lifestyle changes like regular walks, bright light therapy, relaxation techniques can help pa patient op up wit dementia. Vitamin B9 and vitamin B 12 supplements may help in a cure. Post diagnosis, usual life expectancy is reduced to about 7 years. Men usually have lesser chances of survival then women. SDAT incidences increase with age. Alzheimer’s disease can not be cured, but with proper care, life for a patient can be made easy.