Resources for Caregivers: Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease

A team of researchers from Indiana University School of Medicine, Regenstrief Institute and Purdue University, led by Richard Holden, PhD, is testing a new app, called Brain Safe, designed to help people reduce their exposure to a common class of drugs linked to Alzheimer’s disease. The National Institute on Aging is funding the $3.5 million, five-year study to evaluate the app’s effectiveness.

Dr. Aaron E. Carroll talks with Dr. Liana Apostolova about Alzheimer’s disease. What is Alzheimer’s disease? How is it treated? What’s the most promising line of research? Find the full Healthcare Triage podcast series here.

As Alzheimer’s and other dementias progress, behaviors change—as does your role as caregiver. While changes in behavior can be challenging, these resources can help you through each stage of the disease.

In the early stage of Alzheimer’s, most people function independently. He or she may still drive, take part in social activities, volunteer and even work. Your role as care partner is an important one: to provide support and companionship, and help plan for the future.

The middle stages of Alzheimer’s are typically the longest and can last for many years. As dementia progresses, the person with Alzheimer’s will require a greater level of care. During this time, it’s important to get the support you need as a caregiver.