Over the past few decades, Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) has emerged from obscurity. Once considered a rare disorder, it is now seen as a major public health problem that has a severe impact on millions of older Americans and their families. The National Institute on Aging (NIA) is the lead agency for AD research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). NIA launched its AD program in 1978, and since then, the study of this disease has become one of NIA’s top priorities. Several other NIH institutes also conduct and sponsor studies on AD.

Thanks to the work of NIH institutes, other research organizations around the world, and many private-sector research, education, and advocacy groups, the study of AD is moving ahead rapidly. This book explains what AD is, describes the main areas in which researchers are working, and highlights new approaches for helping families and friends care for people with AD.

Table of Contents:

Introduction
AD: A Growing National Problem
About This Book
Then and Now: The Fast Pace of Developments in AD Research
Part 1: The Basics of the Healthy Brain
Inside the Human Brain
Neurons and Their Jobs
The Changing Brain in Healthy Aging
Part 2: What Happens to the Brain in AD
The Hallmarks of AD
The Changing Brain in AD
Part 3: AD Research: Better Questions, New Answers
Looking for the Causes of AD
New Techniques Help in Diagnosing AD
The Search for New Treatments
Participating in a Clinical Trial
Part 4: Improving Support for Families and Other Caregivers
Research Findings Benefit Caregivers
Conclusion
Glossary
Information and Support Resources
Recommended Reading

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