Affecting more than 5.3 million Americans, Alzheimer's disease ranks as the seventh leading cause of death in the United States. Although currently available treatments may temporarily improve memory loss and other symptoms of Alzheimer’s, they do not stop the brain cell death that causes the disease to progress and ultimately become fatal. Early detection is key to ensuring optimal treatment outcomes.
Physician Resources
AOA Health for the Whole Family Article
This patient-focused article titled "Early Detection of Alzheimer's Disease Can Help Slow its Effects" can be customized by inserting a physician's name and practice information in designated areas. The article can then be submitted to editorial departments at local media outlets or made available in office waiting rooms to educate patients about health care issues. Download the article (members-only content).
'Know the 10 Signs' Poster and Brochure
As a founding member of the Alzheimer’s Early Detection Alliance (AEDA), the AOA is committed to educating the osteopathic family and the public about the warning signs of Alzheimer’s and the importance of early detection. Download a "Know the 10 Signs" 
poster andbrochure promoting awareness for the disease and its symptoms.
Alzheimer's Association - Clinical Trials
Alzheimer's Association TrialMatch™ is a new service that can be accessed both by phone and online. The new service contains a comprehensive, nationwide listing of actively recruiting Alzheimer's and related dementia clinical trials with up-to-date trial and trial site information. Alzheimer's Association TrialMatch matches individuals (people with Alzheimer's, caregivers, and healthy volunteers) to trials based upon their diagnosis, location, and preferences.
Physicians can utilize the service to find out about the clinical trials that are taking place in their local areas, as well as to match specific patients to a trial. It is a user-friendly, interactive and free service that includes personalized follow-up by Contact Center Staff. Upon receiving match results to trials, individuals are encouraged to speak with their health care professionals.
Alzheimer's Association - Cognitive Health in Older Adults
Learn about conditions such as high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol that can significantly increase the risk of cognitive decline and cerebrovascular disease. Read more.
Alzheimer's Association - Diagnosis
When performing diagnostic tests, it is important to remember that not all forms of memory loss are Alzheimer's. Use this helpful reference tool when confirming a diagnosis. Learn more.
AAGP Position Statement: Principles of Care for Patients with Dementia Resulting from Alzheimer's Disease
This statement describes an effective and systematic treatment model for patients with dementia resulting from Alzheimer's disease. Although these interventions do not produce a cure for the underlying disease, they have been shown to produce benefits for patients. View the statement.