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What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer's is a type of dementia that affects memory, thinking and behavior. Symptoms eventually grow severe enough to interfere with daily tasks.

Our Commitment to Research

Our commitment to accelerating the global effort to eliminate Alzheimer's disease and other dementias is at the core of all we do.

Our Commitment to Research

Our commitment to accelerating the global effort to eliminate Alzheimer's disease and other dementias is at the core of all we do.

Differential Diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease

Is Alzheimer's Genetic?

Family history is not necessary for an individual to develop Alzheimer’s or other dementias, but scientists know genetics (hereditary factors) are involved.

Why We Advocate

Our Impact

Through our many initiatives and worldwide reach, the Alzheimer’s Association leads the charge in Alzheimer’s care, support, research and advocacy.

The Holidays and Alzheimer’s

Holidays can be challenging for families living with Alzheimer's or other dementias. Get tips for celebrating safely and keeping everybody healthy.

Become a Partner

Younger/Early-Onset Alzheimer's

Helpline

Our free 24/7 Helpline provides reliable information and support to all those who need assistance.

Helpline

Our free 24/7 Helpline provides reliable information and support to all those who need assistance.

Myths

Is memory loss a natural part of aging? Do aspartame, aluminum, silver dental fillings or the flu shot increase risk of Alzheimer's? Learn the facts about these

Fidelity Investments

International Research Grant Program

Learn about our grant application process and key deadlines. All of our grants are open to U.S. and international researchers

Changes to Your Relationship

As Alzheimer's progresses, there are still ways to connect.

Younger-Onset Alzheimer's

Diagnosis of younger-onset brings unique challenges. Get information and resources to help you plan for family impact, work, financial and future care.

Accepting the Diagnosis

Accepting a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or a related dementia requires time to absorb information.

About Our Grants

Our International Research Grant Program funds investigations to advance our understanding of Alzheimer's.

Favorite Links

Web links related to Alzheimer's.

Taking Care of Yourself

Press Resources

Helping Family and Friends

Working With the Doctor

Learn how to plan ahead to get the most out of medical appointments.

Life After Diagnosis

Learn how to get support and live your best life after a diagnosis of Alzheimer's.

Overcoming Stigma

Just Diagnosed

Sharing Your Diagnosis

Fundraising Standards

Treatment Horizon

A worldwide quest is under way to find new treatments to stop, slow or even prevent Alzheimer's.

End-of-Life Planning

After diagnosis of Alzheimer's or other dementia, care and end-of-life planning can be difficult. Get facts on hospice, DNR and more to help you plan ahead.

For Parents and Teachers

10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer's

Your memory often changes as you grow older. But memory loss that disrupts daily life is not a typical part of aging.

Aggression and Anger

Aggressive behaviors can occur suddenly, with no apparent reason, or result from a frustrating situation.

Food and Eating

If eating and nutrition have become a challenge, try these strategies to simplify mealtime.

Milestones

Milestones in Alzheimer's research and treatment

Anxiety and Agitation

A person with dementia may become restless or upset in certain places when focused on specific details.

About This Site

Get Educated

Clinician Pocketcard App

For Kids

First Responders

Paramedics, police, firefighters and other emergency personnel responding to situations involving individuals living with dementia.

Paying for Care

A number of financial resources may be available to help cover costs of care.

Alzheimer’s Association Business Consortium (AABC)

The AABC works on areas of common interest in a pre-competitive space to advance both research and member companies' goals.

Traveling

Traveling with persons with Alzheimer's or other dementias requires planning. Get tips on how to travel safely with them.

Stages of Alzheimer's

Alzheimer's disease typically progresses slowly in three general stages.

Talk to Your Doctor

Audited Financial Statements

Preparing for Emergencies

Emergency situations can be especially confusing for those with Alzheimer's and other dementias. Here you'll find steps to be ready as possible.

State Overview

Information on state policies and initiatives, BRFSS data, data on local impact of Alzheimer's disease and more state and local resources.

Donate Stock

Technology 101

Check out this run-down of common tracking technologies and information about emerging trends.

Alzheimer’s Association Innovation Roundtable (AAIR)

AAIR drives collaboration across the health care sector in relation to dementia, influencing innovation and best practices in Alzheimer’s and dementia care.

Virtual Library

Explore our online resource center devoted to increasing knowledge about Alzheimer's and other dementias.

Trajectory Report

Read the Alzheimer's Association report "Changing the Trajectory of Alzheimer's Disease: How a Treatment by 2025 Saves Lives and Dollars" – download now.

Disclosure of Diagnosis

Global Alzheimer’s Association Interactive Network

Changing the way researchers work together to answer questions related to the causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of Alzheimer's.

Publications

Downloadable brochures, topic sheets and reports.

Publications

Downloadable brochures, topic sheets and reports.

Alzheimer's Association Research Fellowship (AARF)

Alzheimer’s Association Leveraging Model & Data Resources to Advance Alzheimer’s and Dementia Discovery Program (ALZ Discovery Grant Program)

Dementia vs. Alzheimer’s Disease: What is the Difference?

Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia.

Our Story

Founded in 1980, we took a disease cloaked in silence and helped create a global conversation and movement.

Alzheimer’s Innovation Award (AIA)

Early Detection and Diagnosis

Public health professionals can educate the community and health care providers on the benefits of early detection and help reduce barriers to diagnosis.

Dementia and Driving

Guidance on driving safety related to dementia, vision & older drivers. Includes videos, tips & resources to help you deal with this difficult topic.

Search Databases

Find studies, articles, reports and other data.

When Clinical Trials End

24/7 Wandering Support for a Safe Return

Learn about a 24-hour nationwide emergency and wandering response service for individuals living with Alzheimer's.

Alzheimer's Association Research Grant (AARG)

Caregiver Support

Public health can raise awareness of caregiver needs and help develop support and resources.

How Clinical Trials Work

Lori A. Jacobson

Fred Bernhardt

Glossary

Glossary

Clinical Trials: Myths vs. Facts

Advanced Imaging and Biomarkers

Treatments and Research

An overview of research on treatments aimed at stopping, slowing or even preventing Alzheimer's.

Medicare

Get the latest updates on Medicare coverage for Alzheimer's and other dementias.

Working with Care Providers

Research Roundtable

Advancing the research, development and management of new treatments for Alzheimer’s disease.

Research

National Academy of Neuropsychology & Alzheimer’s Association Funding Opportunity

Repetition

In most cases, a person with Alzheimer's is probably looking for comfort, security and familiarity when repeating information.

Management

View and Apply for a Grant

Our grant program supports investigators at every professional stage and includes categories designed to address gaps in research efforts.

Earlier Diagnosis

What if we could diagnose Alzheimer's before symptoms started? Research around earlier diagnosis is among the most active areas in Alzheimer's science.

Why Participate in a Clinical Trial?

Clinical trials provide many participants access to cutting-edge treatments and expert medical care. And someday, they will lead us to the end of Alzheimer’s.

Gina Adelman

Alzheimer’s Combination Therapy Opportunities (ACTO)

How to Include a Clinical Trial

Differential Diagnosis

Planning Ahead for Legal Matters

While it's important for everyone to plan for the future, legal plans are especially important for a person with Alzheimer's.

Medical Tests for Diagnosing Alzheimer's

From mental status testing to imaging, learn how Alzheimer's is diagnosed.

Social Security Disability

Learn about SSDI and SSI allowances for early-onset Alzheimer's.

IRS Information Returns: Form 990

Treatments for Behavior

Downloadable Resources

The Alzheimer’s Association Science Hub

Download our app for the latest news, information and expert views about Alzheimer’s and dementia research.

Pam and Bill Russell

TrialMatch: Find Clinical Trials for Alzheimer's and Other Dementia

Help advance Alzheimer's research using our free TrialMatch matching tool.

Alzheimer's Association Clinician Scientist Fellowship (AACSF) Program

Alzheimer's Association Research Grant — New to the Field (AARG-NTF)

Medication Safety

Use these safety tips to help avoid medication-related problems.

Medication Safety

Use these safety tips to help avoid medication-related problems.

Coronavirus (COVID-19): Tips for Dementia Caregivers in Long-Term or Community-Based Settings

Alzheimer's Association Research Grant to Promote Diversity (AARG-D)

Gift Options to Meet Your Goals

Founders Society

Alzheimer's Association Clinician Scientist Fellowship to Promote Diversity (AACSF-D)

Alzheimer's Association Research Fellowship to Promote Diversity (AARF-D)

Donor-Advised Funds

The Zenith Fellows Award Program (Zenith)

Pathways to Dementia Care Training and Certification

Advancing Research on Care and Outcome Measurement 2.0 (ARCOM)

Reducing Stress

For Teens

Alzheimer’s Ambassador Program

Causes and Risk Factors for Alzheimer's Disease

Researchers believe there is not a single cause of Alzheimer's disease. It likely develops from multiple factors, such as genetics, lifestyle and environment.

Governance

We follow rigorous policies that preserve the public's trust and protect the integrity of the Alzheimer's Association.

Resolving Family Conflicts

Dealing with Alzheimer's can bring out many strong emotions. Get strategies to help your family cope.

E-news Archives

2019 Part the Cloud: Translational Research Funding for Alzheimer’s Disease (PTC)

Alabama

Alabama

Colorado

Missouri

Nebraska

Ohio

Legal Planning

GAAIN Exploration to Evaluate Novel Alzheimer's Queries (GEENA-Q)

Make a Donation

Every dollar you give benefits those affected by Alzheimer's disease.

Minnesota

Utah

Workplace Giving

Argentina ADNI

The Tau Pipeline Enabling Program (T-PEP)

Why Get Checked?

Read about the benefits of receiving an early diagnosis.

Early-Stage Advisory Group

Educational Programs and Dementia Care Resources

Our free, online programs offer information and practical advice.

Biomarkers Across Neurodegenerative Diseases (BAND)

Taiwan ADNI

Medications for Memory, Cognition and Dementia-Related Behaviors

Although current medications cannot cure Alzheimer’s, one treatment addresses the underlying biology. Other medications may help lessen symptoms.

European ADNI

China ADNI

Korea ADNI

Tax Deductions and Credits

If you pay out-of-pocket care costs for a person with Alzheimer's, you may qualify for tax benefits.

Alzheimer's Association Research Grant to Promote Diversity — New to the Field (AARG-D-NTF)

About WW-ADNI

Australia ADNI

Visiting Your Doctor

Get questions to ask and learn what to expect at a visit for symptoms.

How to Apply

Learn about our grant application process and key deadlines. All of our grants are open to U.S. and international researchers.

North American ADNI

Alzheimer’s Association World Wide FINGERS Network Funding Program (ALZ WW-FNFP)

Alzheimer's Association Research Grant — Alzheimer’s Association World Wide FINGERS Network Funding Program (ALZ WW-FNFP) — learn about grant objectives, eligib

Long-Distance Caregiving

Planning for Care Costs

Learn about common care costs and financial documents you'll need.

Care Planning

Early-Stage Caregiving

Early-stage Alzheimer's and related dementia symptoms are mild and the main role of a caregiver is support.

Middle-Stage Caregiving

During the middle stages of Alzheimer's, the person living with dementia will need a greater level of care.

Medical and Scientific Advisory Group (MSAG)

Medical and Scientific Advisory Group (MSAG)

Late-Stage Caregiving

The late stage of Alzheimer's usually requires intensive care. As caregiver, your role focuses on preserving quality of life and dignity.

Free Planning Guides

Make a Difference

Tribute Pages

Honor a loved one with a tribute web page where others can share their memories and make online donations to support the Alzheimer's Association mission.

In Brief News Sign Up

Sign up to receive updates of the latest clinical guidelines, studies, resources and Alzheimer's news.

Portfolio Summaries

View grant portfolio summaries by year.

Health Equity

Public health plays a leading role in planning and executing initiatives to eliminate disparities and address social determinants of health.

Quality of Care

Public health can use its broad authority to ensure people with dementia and their caregivers receive quality care.

Meet Our Corporate Partners

Treatments for Sleep Changes

Search Our Funded Studies

View abstracts of studies supported by our research funding. You can also search for specific dementia grants.

Donate a Vehicle

Medicaid

Learn about Medicaid eligibility and long-term care coverage.

Leaving Your Legacy

Alzheimer’s Impact Movement (AIM)

Get Involved with Your Local Chapter

Career Opportunities

We are looking for people who want to build their careers and make a difference each and every day for those impacted by Alzheimer’s.

Alzheimer's Association Celebrity Champions

Public Health Topics

Learn more about Alzheimer's-specific issues and find resources to drive change.

For Professional Advisors

2022 Part the Cloud Translational (PTC) Research for Alzheimer’s Disease Program

Choosing Care Providers

Alternative Treatments