While currently there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, there are some treatments that help manage the symptoms.

Medications are available that help certain symptoms. These are called ''cholinesterase inhibitors.'' They may improve quality of life and cognitive functions including memory, thought and reasoning. Medication works most effectively for people who are mildly to moderately affected by the disease. Therefore, the early recognition and diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease is very important. However, medications do not reverse or change the progression of the disease.

Tacrine and donepezil hydrochloride are currently FDA approved for the treatment of mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. Neither drug slows the disease progress, but can ease symptoms in some patients by inhibiting the breakdown of a brain chemical called acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is in short supply in Alzheimer's patients. It is no yet clear which patients will benefit from these drugs.

Research shows that Vitamin E is also an option to help with some symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Vitamin E is an antioxidant, and it may aid in the breakdown of free radicals that may be damaging brain cells in individuals with Alzheimer's disease. Selegiline is another antioxidant that may help with some symptoms of the disease.

There are also many approved medications for the behavioral symptoms, including drugs to control depression, agitation, anxiety, and delusions. Specific strategies for some to the physical and behavioral problems can improve a patient's quality of life. Vision and hearing problems, for instance, should be corrected.

Changes in activities and medications improve behavior. A person with Alzheimer's disease may display behavior problems such as paranoia, suspiciousness, combativeness or resistance to maintaining personal hygiene. These behavioral problems can seem overwhelming to families and caregivers. Your physician may suggest various strategies to assist in daily caregiving tasks including:

• Walking or other light exercise that helps reduce problem behaviors
• Playing music, particularly during meals and bathing
• Providing a predictable routine for daily activities, including toileting
• Practicing various skills and positive reinforcement that increase independence
• Considering the medications available to help depression, agitation and psychosis

Caregiver educational programs can delay the time to nursing home placement for the person with Alzheimer's. Caregivers can find out more about educational programs by contacting their local Alzheimer's Association. Support groups are also available which help improve the well being of the caregiver, as well as the person with Alzheimer's disease.

While there is no known way to prevent Alzheimer's disease, researchers believe there are several things that will help keep your brain healthy:

• Avoid harmful substances - Excessive drinking and drug abuse are thought to damage brain cells.
• Challenge yourself - Read widely; keep mentally active and learn new skills. This strengthens the brain connections and promotes new ones.
• Trust yourself more - If you feel as you have control over your life, your brain chemistry actually improves.

Families and friends can help by recognizing that Alzheimer's disease impacts not only the patient, but also the primary caregiver. To take the best care of the Alzheimer's patient, the primary caregiver must take care of themselves. They should be encouraged to find more about the disease, avoid isolation and seek support from family, friends, and professionals.