There are effective treatments for Alzheimer’s disease. Don’t wait for the magic elixir that may never come. The first thing to go is short-term memory.

Treatment involves first understanding the changes in your memory and whether they are different from changes due to aging. A thorough memory assessment should help you understand, in detail, the strengths and weaknesses of your memory. Do you remember better visual or verbal information? Do you benefit from hints to improve your memory? Even if you cannot recall new information, are you able to recognize it? Are your other brain skills still sharp? Answers to these questions will help you decide on the strategies that will work best for you.

Use external memory supports. For example, if you are struggling with arithmetic but can still do a checkbook, you may wish to use a calculator and “carbon copy” checkbooks. If you are having trouble remembering appointments or activities that you enjoy, mark them in your calendar and check it often. If finding your way is a problem, draw schematic maps to help you navigate. Build good memory habits. Get organized. Don’t use scattered notes. Use a bound notebook to help track your “to do” lists and tear out pages that are no longer of use. Make sure that everything has a place and put everything in its place.

Aggressively manage blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes. Get adequate rest. Use alcohol judiciously. Stop smoking. Take only necessary medications at correct doses. Exercise nearly every day. Consider doing both aerobic (e.g., walking, treadmill, cycling) and resistance training (use weights). Eat fish at least twice a week. Manage your stress. Structure your time to build in relaxation each day. Decide what things are of interest to you (e.g., gardening, pets, art, crafts, sporting events, volunteer activities) and be sure to get and stay involved. Keep active with friends and family.

Involve others (i.e., a family member, a friend, or a skillful companion) in your program. For example, if you love to golf, plan for someone to help initiate the outings. If you garden, do it with someone else who will keep doing it with you as your skills change. At some point, someone else may need to track and initiate your program for you. But if you set up the best fit for your interests and talents early and use liberal external supports (including other people), you will be able to enjoy your life well into the changes that occur with your memory. There is so much you can do to help yourself if you start early and involve others in your plans.