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Alzheimer’s Disease

A brain disease that slowly affects memory, thinking and, in time, everyday abilities. There is no cure yet, but treatment, planning and support can help people live as well as possible and ease the load on families.

What is Alzheimer’s disease?

Alzheimer’s is a brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and, eventually, the ability to carry out simple everyday tasks. In most people, symptoms first appear later in life (National Institute on Aging). It is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for an estimated 60–80% of cases, and it is not a normal part of getting older (Alzheimer’s Association). The greatest known risk factor is increasing age, and most people with Alzheimer’s are 65 or older; when it affects someone younger than 65 it is called younger-onset (or early-onset) Alzheimer’s (Alzheimer’s Association). An estimated 7.4 million Americans aged 65 and older are living with it in 2026 (Alzheimer’s Association, 2026 Facts & Figures).

Abnormal clumps of protein (amyloid plaques) and tangled fibers (tau tangles) build up in the brain, and nerve cells lose their connections and die. These changes may begin a decade or more before symptoms show (NIA).

How it progresses

  • Mild: more memory loss, getting lost, trouble handling money, repeating questions and changes in mood or behavior. Many people are diagnosed at this stage.
  • Moderate: growing confusion, trouble recognizing family and friends, and difficulty with multistep tasks such as dressing.
  • Severe: the person can no longer communicate and depends completely on others for care (NIA).

People typically live about 4 to 8 years after diagnosis, though some live as long as 20 (Alzheimer’s Association).

Noticing changes? Get them checked. Warning signs include memory loss that disrupts daily life; trouble planning, solving problems or managing bills; difficulty with familiar tasks; losing track of dates or places; new trouble finding words; misplacing things and being unable to retrace steps; poor judgment; withdrawing from work or hobbies; and changes in mood or personality. Don’t ignore them — make an appointment with a doctor (Alzheimer’s Association: 10 warning signs). Memory problems can also come from treatable causes such as medicine side effects, infections or sleep problems, so an evaluation matters (NIA). Medicare Part B covers a dedicated visit to assess thinking and memory and make a care plan, and you can bring a family member or friend (Medicare.gov).

Help for families and caregivers. The Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline, 800-272-3900, is free and confidential, with interpreters in more than 200 languages (Alzheimer’s Association). The Eldercare Locator, 1-800-677-1116, a public service of the U.S. Administration for Community Living, connects families to local help such as Area Agencies on Aging and meal programs (Eldercare Locator). The National Institute on Aging’s ADEAR Center, 800-438-4380, answers questions and makes referrals (NIA).

Side by side

Six approaches compared

For every condition we look at the same six approaches: what each involves, what it typically costs, and what a patient can realistically expect.

ApproachWhat it involves Estimated costWhat to expect
Conventional medicine (AMA) Careful diagnosis; medicines that ease symptoms (donepezil, galantamine, rivastigmine, memantine); for early disease, anti-amyloid antibodies (lecanemab, donanemab) with MRI safety checks; non-drug care for behavior and sleep, with two FDA-approved medicines for agitation (brexpiprazole and dextromethorphan-bupropion); and planning ahead. Generic donepezil is often around $10 a month with a discount coupon. The antibodies launched at list prices of about $26,500–$32,000 a year, plus scans; Medicare Part B covers them for eligible people (20% coinsurance). Paid home care runs about $35 an hour. With a SingleCare discount card (Oct. 31, 2026), generic memantine was about $7.68 for 28 tablets (average retail listed at $150.39). Prices for the two brand-name agitation medicines: Rexulti was about $1,461.04 for 30 tablets and Auvelity about $1,176.37 for 60 tablets (the listing’s default strengths, same card). Medicare Part D out-of-pocket costs are capped at $2,100 in 2026 ($2,400 in 2027). A brain MRI without contrast: a Medicare lookup showed approved amounts of $322 (ambulatory surgery center) and $438 (hospital outpatient) for 2026, with patient shares of $64 and $87; marketplace cash prices ran about $293–$1,980 (The Pricer, updated September 18, 2026). Still unpriced: galantamine and rivastigmine, memory-clinic visits and PET scans. Other costs: being researched. Symptom medicines may help memory and behavior for a time. The antibodies modestly slowed decline over 18 months in early disease, with a risk of brain swelling or bleeding. None is a cure.
Chiropractic No research shows chiropractic treats, slows or prevents Alzheimer’s. Some people see a chiropractor for back or neck pain. About $55–$100 a follow-up visit and $90–$200 for a first visit, paying cash. Medicare Part B covers only spinal adjustments to correct a subluxation (20% coinsurance). Won’t change memory or the course of the disease. Spinal manipulation may modestly ease some back or neck pain; rare but serious risks with neck manipulation.
Acupuncture Used by some as a complementary therapy alongside medical care — not a replacement for it. Roughly $125–$230 for a first private visit and $90–$185 for follow-ups cash-pay; community clinics about $50–$90. Medicare covers acupuncture only for chronic low back pain. Unproven. Reviews of the research found the studies to be of low quality, and much of the work on how it might act on the brain comes from animal studies; better trials are needed before it can be recommended.
Herbal medicine Ginkgo, lemon balm, sage and other supplements are widely promoted for memory. None has been shown to prevent, treat or cure Alzheimer’s. Cost estimate being researched. A large U.S. trial found ginkgo did not prevent dementia; small trials of lemon balm and sage are early and unconfirmed. Supplements can interact with medicines — ginkgo may raise bleeding risk with blood thinners.
Massage therapy Gentle hand or body massage and caring touch for comfort, calm and agitation. Prices vary by location. At one national chain, a 60-minute massage is about $125–$160 for non-members; memberships run about $70–$90 a month for one session. Small studies suggest it can ease agitation and low mood for a while. It does not slow memory loss.
MBHA Wellness Coach Everyday habits and planning: activity, heart-healthy eating, sleep, hearing, staying connected, home safety, legal and financial plans, and caregiver support and respite. Cost estimate being researched. Supports overall brain and heart health, safety and quality of life for the person and family. Does not reverse the disease.

Approach 1 of 6

Conventional medicine (AMA)

There is no cure for Alzheimer’s yet. Several FDA-approved medicines either ease symptoms or target the disease itself, and most work best in the early or middle stages (National Institute on Aging). Since 2023 the choices have grown: two antibody medicines that act on the disease itself and two medicines for agitation are now approved (FDA, FDA, FDA, Auvelity label).

1. Getting a diagnosis

Doctors ask the person and a family member about health, medicines, daily activities and changes in behavior; test memory, attention and language; order blood and urine tests to rule out other causes; check for depression; and may use brain scans (CT, MRI or PET) or spinal fluid tests. A blood test for amyloid is now available in some places, but its result alone should not be used to diagnose dementia. A primary care doctor may refer you to a geriatrician, neurologist, geriatric psychiatrist, neuropsychologist or memory clinic (NIA). An early diagnosis leaves more time to plan and more chances to join clinical trials — it’s worth asking the care team whether one might fit (NIA).

2. Medicines for symptoms

  • Cholinesterase inhibitors — donepezil, galantamine, benzgalantamine and rivastigmine — may help some memory, thinking and behavior symptoms. Over time, as the disease progresses, they lose their effect.
  • Memantine, for moderate to severe disease, may help some people keep certain daily abilities a little longer, and can be combined with a cholinesterase inhibitor.
  • Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, headache, dizziness and falls — report anything unusual to the prescriber right away (NIA).
  • Heart rhythm: tell the doctor about any heart problems or a slow or irregular heartbeat before starting donepezil, and get help right away for fainting or a slow heartbeat while taking it (MedlinePlus).

3. Anti-amyloid antibodies for early disease

4. Behavior, mood and sleep

  • Sleeplessness, wandering, agitation, anxiety and depression are common. Experts agree non-drug approaches should be tried first. Antipsychotics carry serious risks, including a higher risk of death in some older people with dementia, and sleep aids can increase confusion and falls (NIA).
  • Brexpiprazole (Rexulti) became the first FDA-approved medicine for agitation from Alzheimer’s dementia in May 2023. It is an antipsychotic, and like all antipsychotics it carries a boxed warning that older people with dementia-related psychosis who take these medicines have a higher risk of death. Common side effects include headache, dizziness, urinary tract infections and sleepiness or trouble sleeping (FDA).
  • Dextromethorphan-bupropion (Auvelity), already used for depression, had agitation from Alzheimer’s dementia added to its label in April 2026. Unlike brexpiprazole, it is not an antipsychotic. In a five-week trial it eased agitation more than placebo, and in a longer study people who stayed on it went longer before agitation returned than people switched to placebo. It is meant to be taken regularly, not “as needed” (Auvelity label). Its label warns about dizziness (take steps to prevent falls), raised blood pressure (checked before and during treatment), seizures, and a dangerous reaction called serotonin syndrome when combined with certain antidepressants; like other antidepressants it carries a boxed warning about suicidal thoughts in children and young adults (Auvelity label). Bring a full list of medicines to the appointment.
  • For sleep problems and late-day restlessness (“sundowning”), check first for causes such as urinary infections, pain or sleep apnea; keep a steady routine, get daylight, and keep evenings calm and well lit (Alzheimer’s Association).

5. Planning care

Medicare Part B covers a visit to review thinking and memory and build a care plan, including advance care planning and referrals to community resources (Medicare.gov). Some clinicians take part in Medicare’s GUIDE program, which offers care navigators, caregiver training, a 24/7 support line and up to $2,500 a year in respite care for eligible patients (CMS).

What it costs

How well it works — what to expect

Symptom medicines may temporarily improve or steady memory and thinking for some people. The newer antibodies can modestly slow the disease in its early stage but cannot stop or reverse it (NIA, NIA). Treating behavior and sleep problems can make the person more comfortable and help caregivers too (NIA). Staying physically active, eating well and keeping mentally and socially engaged support brain health alongside any treatment (NIA) — see the MBHA Wellness Coach section below.

Find a medical doctor in our directory

Approach 2 of 6

Chiropractic

The evidence, plainly. We found no research showing that chiropractic care treats, slows or prevents Alzheimer’s disease or any other dementia. You may see claims that it slows the disease; MBHA could find no studies to support them, so we don’t repeat them as fact. Chiropractic is not a substitute for a medical evaluation or for the treatments described under conventional medicine.

Why some people go

Back and neck pain are common in later life, and some people living with Alzheimer’s — or the family members caring for them — see a chiropractor for that pain. Research suggests spinal manipulation may lead to small improvements in low-back pain and can help some neck pain (NCCIH). Any comfort it brings is for the pain, not for memory or thinking.

Staying safe

  • Mild soreness, stiffness or headache are common after spinal manipulation and usually pass within a day. Serious problems are very rare, but manipulation of the neck has been linked to small tears in the neck arteries that can lead to a stroke, and serious side effects may be more likely in people with underlying health problems (NCCIH).
  • Tell the chiropractor about osteoporosis (thinning bones), blood thinners, any recent fall and all other health conditions and medicines. New pain after a fall should be checked by a medical doctor first.
  • A person with dementia may not be able to explain pain or say “stop.” A caregiver should come along, gentle techniques are the safer choice, and the session should end if the person seems uncomfortable or upset.

What it costs

Paying cash, a follow-up visit typically costs about $55–$100 and a first appointment about $90–$200. Insurance can lower that, but deductibles, copays and visit limits still apply (The Pricer). Medicare Part B covers only spinal adjustments to correct a subluxation, with 20% coinsurance after the deductible; it doesn’t cover X-rays or other services a chiropractor orders (Medicare.gov).

Find a chiropractor in our directory

Approach 3 of 6

Acupuncture

Some people use acupuncture alongside medical care for Alzheimer’s. The research so far doesn’t let anyone say whether it helps.

What the research shows

A 2020 overview of eleven systematic reviews found all of them to be of critically low quality, with no high-quality evidence for any outcome; the main problem was bias in the original trials. The authors called acupuncture promising but said larger, more rigorous studies are needed before it can be widely recommended (Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 2020).

A 2021 review in Neural Plasticity pulled together research on how acupuncture might affect the brain in Alzheimer’s and vascular cognitive impairment — the growth of new brain cells, connections between nerve cells and brain networks. It is a review of possible mechanisms, much of it drawn from studies in rats and mice, not a test of whether acupuncture helps people; the authors note the mechanisms are still unclear (Neural Plasticity, 2021).

A Cochrane review of acupuncture for vascular dementia found no randomized, placebo-controlled trials it could include and concluded that its effectiveness is uncertain (Cochrane review, 2007). We found no completed Cochrane review of acupuncture for Alzheimer’s disease itself.

Staying safe

  • Relatively few complications have been reported; problems have come from non-sterile needles or poor technique. Choose a licensed practitioner who uses sterile, single-use needles (NCCIH).
  • A person with dementia may find needles or a new setting upsetting — a caregiver should stay close, and sessions should stop if the person seems distressed.
  • Use it alongside medical care, never instead of an evaluation or treatment.

What it costs

Published cash prices run roughly $125–$230 for a first private visit and $90–$185 for follow-ups; community acupuncture in a shared room is about $50–$90 (The Pricer). Medicare covers acupuncture only for chronic low back pain (Medicare.gov).

Find an acupuncturist in our directory

Approach 4 of 6

Herbal medicine

Read this first. No herb, supplement or “medical food” has been proven to prevent, treat or cure Alzheimer’s. Supplements don’t need the evidence the FDA requires for prescription drugs, their purity isn’t checked by the FDA, and some interact seriously with medicines (Alzheimer’s Association). At this time, no vitamin or supplement is recommended for preventing Alzheimer’s (NIA). Talk with the doctor before starting anything.

Ginkgo

  • The large Ginkgo Evaluation of Memory (GEM) trial followed more than 3,000 adults aged 75 and older for a median of about six years. Ginkgo did not lower the rate of dementia or Alzheimer’s, and it didn’t slow progression in people with mild cognitive impairment (JAMA, 2008).
  • Treatment studies are mixed. A 2010 analysis of nine trials of one standardized ginkgo extract (2,372 people with Alzheimer’s, vascular or mixed dementia) found better scores on thinking tests than with placebo, but the results varied widely between trials, daily activities didn’t differ significantly across the whole group, and the authors said the real-life benefit is hard to judge (results looked somewhat stronger in the Alzheimer’s subgroup) (BMC Geriatrics, 2010).
  • A 2012 Chinese trial of 120 people with mild cognitive impairment reported better scores on two memory tests after six months of ginkgo leaf tablets. The comparison group got no placebo, so expectations may explain part of the result (Journal of Chinese Integrative Medicine, 2012).
  • Ginkgo extract may have a modest effect on dementia symptoms, but the evidence is inconsistent (NCCIH).
  • Safety: ginkgo may increase the risk of bleeding in people taking blood thinners such as warfarin, can interact with other medicines, and raw ginkgo seeds are toxic (NCCIH). Because the anti-amyloid antibodies can also cause small brain bleeds (FDA), anyone on those treatments should tell their care team about every supplement.

Lemon balm

  • Lemon balm has a long history as a memory herb. A U.K. research team found that one lemon balm sample bound to acetylcholine receptors in human brain tissue in the lab; in 20 healthy young volunteers, single doses improved memory and calmness at the highest amount tested (Neuropsychopharmacology, 2003).
  • A small four-month Iranian trial in 42 people with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s found better thinking scores and less agitation with a lemon balm extract than with placebo (J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry, 2003).
  • But a larger, carefully blinded U.K. trial of lemon balm aromatherapy for agitation in 114 care-home residents found it worked no better than placebo (or donepezil) — though all groups improved, which the authors linked to the benefits of touch and attention (Dement Geriatr Cogn Disord, 2011).

Sage

  • In lab and animal studies, Spanish sage oil blocked acetylcholinesterase — the same enzyme that donepezil and similar medicines target. A small pilot in people with Alzheimer’s reported better attention and fewer behavior symptoms, but it had no comparison group, and blood pressure rose in two participants (Pharmacol Biochem Behav, 2003).
  • A small four-month Iranian trial in 42 people with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s reported better thinking scores with a common sage extract than with placebo (J Clin Pharm Ther, 2003).
  • NCCIH says it is uncertain whether sage affects thinking in people with Alzheimer’s because very little research has been done. Common sage contains thujone, which can be toxic in large amounts or with long use, and sage may be unsafe in pregnancy (NCCIH). Don’t combine it with a prescribed cholinesterase inhibitor without the prescriber’s OK.

Cat’s claw and ginseng

  • Cat’s claw is a traditional Amazonian remedy. There’s no conclusive evidence from studies in people that it helps any health condition, and we found no studies in people with Alzheimer’s. It may slow blood clotting and might interact with blood thinners and blood pressure medicines; it could also worsen autoimmune disease (NCCIH).
  • Ginseng: the American ginseng study often quoted for Alzheimer’s was a lab experiment on nerve cells in a dish, not a study in people (Journal of Chinese Medicinal Materials, 2008). Small trials suggest Asian ginseng may help some aspects of thinking in middle-aged adults, but none shows it treats Alzheimer’s. Insomnia is its most common side effect, and it may interfere with blood clotting, lower blood sugar and interact with medicines (NCCIH).

Other supplements

  • Omega-3s: eating fish is linked with less cognitive decline, but supplements haven’t been shown to help treat Alzheimer’s (NCCIH).
  • Vitamin E: most findings are negative; one moderate-quality study suggests it may slow loss of daily function in Alzheimer’s (NCCIH).
  • Curcumin (turmeric): human studies are too limited and inconsistent to draw conclusions (NCCIH).
  • B vitamins: short-term use hasn’t improved thinking in older adults, and too much vitamin B6 can cause serious side effects (NCCIH).
  • Huperzine A showed no more benefit than placebo in a large U.S. trial; coconut oil has never been clinically tested for Alzheimer’s; and coral calcium and phosphatidylserine aren’t recommended (Alzheimer’s Association).

Don’t let a supplement delay a medical evaluation: depression, medicine reactions and thyroid, liver or kidney problems can all cause memory trouble and are treatable (NCCIH). We don’t list doses here — that is a decision for the person’s doctor or pharmacist.

Approach 5 of 6

Massage therapy

Gentle massage and caring touch can bring comfort and calm to a person living with Alzheimer’s. It does not slow the disease.

What the research shows

Safety

  • Massage is low-risk overall, but rare serious injuries have mostly involved vigorous techniques such as deep-tissue work or people at higher risk, such as older adults (NCCIH) — so keep pressure gentle.
  • Short sessions, a familiar setting and a caregiver nearby can help. Stop if the person seems uncomfortable or upset.
  • Simple hand massage is something family caregivers can learn to do at home; reviewers encourage caregivers to use it (Int J Nurs Stud, 2019).

What it costs

Prices vary by location. At one national chain, franchise price lists show about $125–$160 for a 60-minute massage for non-members and about $65–$90 for members, whose memberships run about $70–$90 a month (The Pricer). Tips are extra.

Find a massage therapist in our directory

Approach 6 of 6

MBHA Wellness Coach

An MBHA Wellness Coach works alongside the medical team on the everyday habits and plans that support brain health, safety and the whole family.

Heart health is brain health

  • Managing blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol and depression may help protect thinking skills. In the large SPRINT MIND study, people 50 and older who brought their systolic blood pressure below 120 reduced their risk of mild cognitive impairment over five years (NIA).
  • Move: federal guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of physical activity a week; walking is a good start (NIA).
  • Eat well: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish and less solid fat, sugar and salt. Mediterranean and MIND eating patterns have been linked with lower risk in observational studies, but results aren’t conclusive (NIA): a three-year trial found the MIND diet worked no better for thinking than a control diet with mild calorie cutting (New England Journal of Medicine, 2023).

Sleep, hearing and staying connected

  • Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep; treat hearing or vision loss; limit alcohol and stop smoking (NIA).
  • Social activity, volunteering and learning new skills are linked with better thinking in later life (NIA).

Safety at home

Legal and financial planning

While the person can still take part, put in place a durable power of attorney for finances, a health care power of attorney, a living will and a will. Laws vary by state, so an elder law attorney can help (Alzheimer’s Association).

Caring for the caregiver

Another approach

Homeopathy

About the evidence. Homeopathic remedies are chosen to match a person’s individual symptoms. There is no scientific evidence that homeopathy treats this condition, and it must never replace prescribed medical treatment.

What homeopaths may suggest

Homeopaths choose remedies to match a person’s individual pattern of symptoms rather than the diagnosis. For memory loss and confusion in older people, homeopathic texts describe Baryta carbonica (memory loss, childlike or dependent behavior) (Boericke’s Materia Medica), Anacardium (impaired memory, absent-mindedness) (Boericke’s Materia Medica), Lycopodium (weak memory, confused thoughts, worry about breaking down) (Boericke’s Materia Medica) and Alumina (slowed, foggy thinking and disorientation) (Flora & Fauna Homeopathy). These descriptions come from homeopathic tradition, not from clinical trials. We don’t list potencies or schedules; a remedy should only be used alongside, never instead of, the person’s medical care.

What the research shows

  • NCCIH says there is little evidence that homeopathy is an effective treatment for any specific health condition. Many homeopathic products are so diluted that none of the original substance remains, though some sold as homeopathic contain real amounts of active ingredients and could cause side effects or interact with medicines (NCCIH).
  • A Cochrane review of homeopathy for dementia found no studies good enough to include, so it could not say whether homeopathy helps (Cochrane review, 2003).
  • A 2010 Italian study reported less anxiety-like behavior in mice given very diluted Gelsemium (Psychopharmacology, 2010), and other researchers published a critical comment on it (Psychopharmacology, 2012). It is an animal study of anxiety, not of memory or Alzheimer’s, and its results can’t be applied to people. Ideas that highly diluted remedies calm inflammation or oxidative stress in the brain remain unproven.

What it costs

Cost estimate being researched. Insurance rarely covers homeopathy; ask for a written plan with costs and check the practitioner’s training before starting.

Another approach

Questions people ask: aluminum, water and phosphatidylserine

Families often hear that aluminum causes Alzheimer’s, that drinking more water can turn it around, or that a supplement called phosphatidylserine (PS) can reverse it. Here is what the research actually shows. None of these is a treatment for Alzheimer’s.

Does aluminum cause Alzheimer’s?

Aluminum has been studied as a possible cause for decades, and the question is still debated. What the evidence shows today:

  • Everyone is exposed. Food, water, air and soil all contain some aluminum. Aluminum compounds are also found in antacids, buffered aspirin, food additives, cosmetics and antiperspirants, and alums are used to treat water. Very little gets into the body from aluminum pots and pans; taking high-aluminum products such as antacids along with citrus foods or drinks is one way people take in more (ATSDR).
  • Cause hasn’t been shown. Some studies found that people exposed to high levels of aluminum may develop Alzheimer’s, but other studies did not, and it is not known for certain whether aluminum causes the disease (ATSDR).
  • Population studies are mixed. A 2016 analysis of eight studies (10,567 people) found that people with long-term aluminum exposure were more likely to develop Alzheimer’s (Neurosci Lett, 2016). A 2025 review of 54 studies found that 26 reported a link and 24 found none or the opposite; few showed aluminum directly causing dementia, and the authors called aluminum likely one of several interacting risk factors (Ecotoxicol Environ Saf, 2025). Studies like these show an association, not proof of cause.
  • The big picture. A 2026 review of the reviews found that aluminum can trigger Alzheimer’s-like changes in laboratory experiments, but studies in people are less consistent and are weakened by poorly measured exposure and other factors that could explain the results. It concluded that the evidence neither shows aluminum is the main cause of Alzheimer’s nor rules out a contributing role in some people (Neurotoxicology, 2026).
  • Dialysis encephalopathy is a different illness. Some people with kidney disease store a lot of aluminum and can develop bone or brain disease that may be caused by it (ATSDR). Dialysis encephalopathy, a serious, progressive brain disorder seen in people on dialysis, is likely related to aluminum poisoning and has its own pattern of symptoms and brain-wave (EEG) findings. It is treated by cutting aluminum intake and helping the body get rid of it (Neurol Sci, 2018).
  • Sensible steps. Because aluminum is everywhere, it can’t be avoided completely. ATSDR advises against taking large amounts of aluminum-containing antacids and buffered aspirin, and to take these medicines as directed (ATSDR). People with kidney disease should ask their kidney doctor or pharmacist before using them.

Water and dehydration

Drinking water does not treat Alzheimer’s, but staying hydrated matters. Dehydration happens when the body loses more fluid than it takes in and no longer has enough to work properly. It can be mild or severe enough to be life-threatening. Older adults are more likely to become dehydrated, partly because some people lose their sense of thirst as they age (MedlinePlus). It also happens more easily to people who rely on others to bring them drinks or who take water pills (diuretics) (NHS). As Alzheimer’s progresses, staying hydrated may become a problem (Alzheimer’s Association).

  • Signs in adults: strong thirst, dry mouth, peeing and sweating less than usual, dark urine, dry skin, tiredness and dizziness (MedlinePlus). Don’t wait to be asked for a drink; watch for these signs.
  • Get medical help right away if dehydration comes with confusion, fainting, not peeing, a fast heartbeat, fast breathing or signs of shock (MedlinePlus). New or worse confusion in a person with dementia should always be checked.
  • Helping someone drink: offer small cups of water or other drinks throughout the day, plus foods that contain a lot of water, such as fruit, soups, milkshakes and smoothies (Alzheimer’s Association).

Phosphatidylserine (PS)

PS is a kind of fat that forms a main part of the membranes around nerve cells. The idea behind taking it is that it might help support those membranes and protect the cells (Alzheimer’s Association).

Before trying any supplement

Supplements can interact seriously with prescription medicines, and no one should take one without first checking with a doctor (Alzheimer’s Association). They can also pose risks for people with certain health problems or before surgery (NCCIH). Blood thinners need special care: ginkgo, for example, may raise the risk of bleeding in people taking warfarin (NCCIH), and the anti-amyloid antibody medicines can themselves cause small brain bleeds (FDA). Bring every supplement bottle to the next appointment and let the doctor or pharmacist decide whether it is safe. We don’t list doses.

In their own words

Wellness and lifestyle testimonials

Please read first. These are personal experiences, not medical advice. MBHA makes no medical claims: these products do not treat, slow or cure Alzheimer’s disease, and changes in a person with dementia can have many causes. Never stop, skip or change prescribed medicines because of anything here, and talk with the person’s doctor or care team before trying any product or supplement.

We have found it helpful for people with Alzheimer’s to use the insoles and the necklace and to drink plenty of water. Hang in there — this may take a while.

— Name withheld

A 73-year-old member of our extended family, whose memory and thinking had declined, was living in an assisted living facility. Her family was told she was deteriorating and needed a nursing home. When she moved into the nursing home, the family put a necklace on her. Within about an hour she started talking, after not saying a word for weeks. Her mood seemed brighter, and after two weeks she was able to move back to assisted living. The family then added the magnetic mattress pad, pillow and far infrared comforter, and her quality of life improved. Later she caught a virus, and her mattress pad and quilt were at the dry cleaner for two to three weeks; during that time the family was told her condition was declining. The staff saw big improvements once she was back on the products. The family knows the magnets won’t cure her condition, but they are convinced the products have made her quality of life better.

— Mary

In my experience the comforters, the far infrared materials and the sleep system have helped people with Alzheimer’s rest better and seem less agitated. Be careful and go slowly when introducing the magnetics — people with Alzheimer’s are sometimes very sensitive and can become suspicious. I combine them with gentle massage, foot reflexology, music, gentle body-balancing work and lots of hugs. My interest is personal as well as professional: my mother has Alzheimer’s, as did her sister and brother.

— Name withheld, Holistic practitioner and family caregiver

A doctor we know drinks water from a water-treatment device. His office manager’s father, who has Alzheimer’s, was found on the floor of his assisted living facility. X-rays and a CT scan showed no broken bones, and he was moved to a rehab unit, but he couldn’t move his feet. His daughter, a nurse, ordered a wheelchair, afraid he would have to move to nursing care. The doctor suggested the family bring him some of the water. They brought a couple of liters, he drank some before bed, and the next morning the nurse said he was up and walking. He went back to assisted living; his wife brings the water every day and finds him more alert. Months later he was doing well, walking around the wheelchair he no longer used.

— Kathy and John

A consultant I know used a PMag on his father, who has Alzheimer’s. When he visited, his father would talk to him about “his son” without realizing he was speaking to that son. While using the PMag, he said, he “got his father back.” I don’t know how long he used it or how long that very emotional moment lasted.

— Name withheld

Shared with first names only. Lightly edited for length and spelling.

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