Formulating A Treatment Plan For Alzheimer's

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Coming up with the best treatment plan for Alzheimer's disease can be tricky. That's because it depends on many factors: age, general health, treatment goals, how severe the symptoms are, and the person's living situation.

But, by taking the time to talk through all the treatment options and how they may affect you or your loved one, you may be more likely find the one that works best.

For instance, there are four medicines that's are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration to treat Alzheimer's disease and each have different advantages and side effects that are important. The medicine helps maintain thinking, memory, and speaking skills. They also can help with some of the behavioral and personality changes that can occur with Alzheimer's.

It's important to ask questions about medications and other treatments. Remember there is help out there.