Alzheimer’s and what you can do There are ways to manage the disease

October 21, 2025

Discover what you can do if you have symptoms or care for someone with Alzheimer’s.

There is no cure for Alzheimer’s yet, although there have been breakthroughs as we have highlighted. Whether you are someone displaying symptoms or caring for someone who has the disease, there is a lot you can do to help manage the disease, slow its progression, and support quality of life.

Here’s what can be done:

1. Get a Proper Diagnosis

If you or someone close to you is showing symptoms, see a doctor. Many conditions mimic Alzheimer’s (like vitamin deficiencies, thyroid issues, or depression) and catching the real cause early is key.

2. Explore Available Medications

There are FDA-approved drugs that can help with symptoms like memory, confusion, and thinking problems, especially in early to mid-stages. They don’t stop the disease, but they can buy time and improve function.

Newer treatments like lecanemab (Leqembi) aim to target the disease process itself—by removing amyloid plaques from the brain—but they’re only for certain people and there can be side effects. A doctor can help decide if it’s a fit.

3. Build a Brain-Healthy Lifestyle

While no lifestyle change will cure Alzheimer’s, daily habits can make a big difference in brain function and overall well-being:

• Stay physically active – walking, swimming, stretching

• Eat a brain-friendly diet – Mediterranean or MIND diets are best

• Stay mentally engaged – puzzles, reading, learning something new

• Be social – isolation worsens symptoms

• Get quality sleep – it matters more than most people think

To discover more explore our Look After Your Body, Improve Your Mind and Diet sections.

4. Create Structure and Support

Routine helps reduce anxiety and confusion. Try to:

• Keep a regular daily schedule

• Use reminders (notes, phone alerts, whiteboards)

• Label items around the house

• Simplify choices and avoid clutter

5. Plan Ahead

As Alzheimer’s progresses, decision-making becomes harder. Planning early—while the person can still be involved—makes the future less stressful. This includes:

• Legal planning (wills, power of attorney, advance directives)

• Financial planning

• Long-term care options and support systems

You may find our article How to Be Better Prepared a useful guide

6. Lean on Support

No one should go through this alone. Resources include:

• Support groups for patients and caregivers

• Counselling for emotional support

• Counselling for emotional support

• Alzheimer’s Association and similar organizations for tools, education, and 24/7 helplines

• Respite care so caregivers can take breaks

7. Practice Compassion

Alzheimer’s is frustrating—for everyone. But keeping a sense of humour, patience, and kindness goes a long way. Celebrate small wins. Hold on to meaningful moments. Focus on connection, not perfection.

You can’t stop Alzheimer’s yet—but you can slow it down, live with more dignity and joy, and support the people affected. Action, even in small ways, adds up. The earlier you start, the more options you have.

As mentioned, Alzheimer’s can lead to Dementia so read our article on Dementia and what you can do.