The primary goals of treatment for Alzheimer's are to improve the quality of life for the person suffering and for his or her caregiver(s). Treatment typically comprises three interrelated approaches:

1. Slowing the progression of cognitive decline and treating specific symptoms and/or co-occurring conditions with drug therapies.
2. Managing the behavioral symptoms of Alzheimer's. There are many different strategies for doing this. Non-drug approaches, which should be tried first, are used by families and caregivers in consultation with social workers, nurses or support-group facilitators. If non-drug approaches fail to adequately manage symptoms, your doctor may prescribe medications to help control behavioral symptoms.

Specific strategies that might be recommended for managing these symptoms include:
Teaching caregivers how to communicate and interact with the person in ways that improve functioning and reduce behavioral problems;
Involving the person with Alzheimer's in structured therapeutic activities;
Modifying the home environment to make it safer and easier for the person to function;

Maintaining overall health through regular medical care, proper diet and exercise, and using complementary health approaches as appropriate to address specific health needs.
If behavioral problems become severe, there are a number of drug treatments that doctors may prescribe to help control symptoms such as depression, agitation, aggression or sleeplessness.
3. Support and education for the family and caregiver: Caring for a person who has Alzheimer's poses tremendous challenges, emotionally, physically and financially. Caregivers are subject to high levels of chronic stress, and caregiver burnout is a major factor in the inability to continue caring for a person with Alzheimer's at home.
Research shows that when family and caregivers are educated about Alzheimer's disease and have the appropriate support, care of the person with Alzheimer's is improved. There are many education and support programs available; taking advantage of these programs will improve not only the quality of life of the person with Alzheimer's, but also that of the family and caregivers. Good programs can equip the caregiver with the skills and support necessary to care for a loved one at home and can significantly delay the time when placement in a nursing home becomes necessary.

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