Is There a Treatment for Alzheimer's Disease?
There is currently no cure for Alzheimer's disease, but it is treatable. Good care usually has several goals at once: supporting memory and thinking, slowing decline when possible, treating other conditions that make symptoms worse, managing mood and behavior, keeping the person safe and engaged, and supporting the family. The right plan depends on the stage of the disease, the person's other health conditions and what matters most to them.
Medications That Help With Symptoms
Two groups of medicines have been used for many years to help with memory and thinking symptoms. They do not stop the disease, but some people have modest benefits in daily function, attention or memory.
- Cholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine) boost a brain chemical involved in memory. Possible side effects include nausea, diarrhea, poor appetite, vivid dreams and a slow heart rate.
- Memantine works on a different brain chemical and is often used in moderate to severe stages, sometimes together with a cholinesterase inhibitor. Dizziness, headache and confusion are possible side effects.
- Benefits vary from person to person. Your clinician can help decide whether to start, continue or stop a medicine.
Newer Disease-Modifying Treatments
Lecanemab (Leqembi) and donanemab (Kisunla) are antibody treatments that remove amyloid from the brain. In studies, they modestly slowed decline in people with early Alzheimer's disease. They are not right for everyone:
- They are intended for people with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia due to Alzheimer's disease.
- Amyloid must be confirmed with appropriate testing before treatment.
- They are given by intravenous infusion and require regular MRI scans for safety monitoring.
- They can cause brain swelling or small areas of bleeding (ARIA), which is usually without symptoms but can occasionally be serious.
- Genetic factors (APOE), blood thinners and other medical conditions affect eligibility and risk.
Physical Activity
Regular movement is one of the most helpful things a person with Alzheimer's disease can do. Exercise supports mood, sleep, balance, heart health and daily function, and may help thinking. Walking, stationary cycling, chair exercises, dancing and balance programs are all good options. Aim for activity most days, adapt it to the person's abilities, and check with a clinician about safety and fall risk.
Nutrition and Heart Health
What is good for the heart is generally good for the brain. Eating patterns rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, fish and olive oil, such as the Mediterranean or MIND diet, are reasonable choices. Equally important are managing blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol, avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol. As the disease progresses, watch for weight loss, dehydration and swallowing difficulties.
Hearing and Vision Care
Untreated hearing loss makes conversations exhausting and can make memory problems look worse. Hearing aids, along with regular eye exams and updated glasses, can improve communication, confidence and social connection. Ask for a hearing test if family members notice the TV volume rising or frequent misunderstandings.
Sleep
Poor sleep can worsen memory, mood and daytime confusion. Helpful steps include a regular schedule, daytime light and activity, limiting naps and caffeine, and a calm bedtime routine. Snoring or pauses in breathing may signal sleep apnea, which is treatable. Sleeping pills can increase confusion and falls, so discuss any sleep medicine with a clinician.
Social Engagement and Mental Activity
Staying connected with others and doing meaningful activities supports mood and quality of life. Conversation, music, faith communities, adult day programs, hobbies, gardening and simple household tasks all count. The goal is enjoyment and purpose, not perfect performance.
Treating Other Conditions That Affect Thinking
Other problems can make Alzheimer's symptoms worse and are worth checking regularly:
- Medications that cause confusion, such as some sleep aids, bladder medicines and antihistamines
- Depression and anxiety
- Thyroid problems or vitamin B12 deficiency
- Infections, pain, constipation or dehydration, which can cause sudden confusion
Managing Mood and Behavior Changes
Agitation, anxiety, sleep disruption, suspicion or wandering are common as Alzheimer's progresses. Non-drug approaches come first: look for triggers such as pain, hunger, noise or boredom, keep routines predictable and respond calmly. Medicines may be considered for severe symptoms, but some carry significant risks in older adults and should be used carefully.
Support for Caregivers
Caring for the caregiver is part of treating Alzheimer's disease. Education, support groups, respite care and early legal and financial planning reduce stress and help families make decisions together. Caregivers should also keep up with their own health, sleep and medical visits.
What Should Illinois Families Do Next?
- Schedule a visit to review the diagnosis, stage and current treatment plan.
- Bring a full list of medications and supplements.
- Ask whether symptom medicines or newer treatments are appropriate.
- Ask about hearing, vision, sleep and mood screening.
- Build regular exercise and social activity into the weekly routine.
- Connect with caregiver education and local support early.
Frequently asked questions
- Can Alzheimer's disease be cured?
- Not yet. However, medications, newer treatments for early-stage disease, healthy habits and caregiver support can help people function better and maintain quality of life.
- Do Alzheimer's medications work for everyone?
- No. Benefits vary, and some people have side effects. A clinician can help weigh the potential benefits and risks.
- Who can receive Leqembi or Kisunla?
- These treatments are for selected people with early Alzheimer's disease and confirmed amyloid, after a full evaluation of risks, including MRI monitoring requirements.
- Does exercise really help with Alzheimer's disease?
- Regular physical activity supports mood, sleep, balance and daily function, and is a recommended part of care for most people.
- Can hearing aids help memory?
- Treating hearing loss improves communication and social connection, which can make daily life easier for people with memory problems.
Finding Alzheimer's and Dementia Support in Illinois
Families often benefit from memory evaluations, caregiver education, community support programs, dementia care planning and local aging and caregiver resources. These pages can help you get started:
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Learn More About Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia
Explore Illinois Dementia Guide for information about dementia symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and resources for families and caregivers. Watch additional educational videos as they become available in our dementia video library.
This website provides educational information and does not replace individualized medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. Treatment decisions should be made with a qualified healthcare professional. If you believe someone is experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.