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Help for 4 million Americans living with Alzheimer's

	While there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia, several treatments can help with symptoms such as forgetfulness and confusion. Turn to ConsumerReportsHealth.org for support and advice on how to care for someone with dementia.
	Subscribe to ConsumerReportsHealth.org today and find out if prescription drugs or a popular herbal remedy rates best for easing the symptoms of this condition.

If you or someone you know is diagnosed with dementia, you're not alone. Consumer Reports Health can help with the best research about dementia, and expert evidence and advice about treatment options.

Key points about dementia

• The most common type of dementia is Alzheimer's disease. The next most common types are dementia with Lewy bodies and vascular dementia.
• Dementia is often difficult for doctors to diagnose in the early stages.
• Forgetfulness and confusion are usually the first symptoms.
• There isn't a cure for Alzheimer's and most other dementias, but there are treatments that can help with the symptoms.
• If you think someone close to you may have dementia, talk to his or her doctor. Many treatments work best earlier on in the disease.
• If you're caring for someone with dementia, keep in mind that you will need help.

About 4 million Americans have dementia, and many more have a family member or friend with the disease. In dementia, several changes happen in the brain that stop it from working properly. When dementia starts, it damages cells in the parts of the brain that store memories. Over time, the disease damages the parts of the brain that control language and thinking.

While there is no cure for dementia, there are several treatments that may help symptoms. Caregivers of people with dementia should also seek support and professional help.

We encourage you to read our entire condition report and to consult with your doctor to learn more about dementia. As a Consumer Reports Health subscriber, you’ll have access to our expert research and recommendations, and you’ll be more confident and knowledgeable about which treatments are best for you.