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Alzheimer's Disease Research

Alzheimer’s Disease: Tips for the Newly Diagnosed

Senior woman talking with a female doctor.

Families can feel overwhelmed when a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Learn more about how to manage care for yourself or a loved one who has just received an Alzheimer’s diagnosis.

New Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease

There are so many uncertainties about how to plan and pay for medical care for people with Alzheimer’s, particularly for the long term. Legal and financial affairs must be put in order.

The information below can help you organize information as you plan and make decisions for the present and the future.

Finding a Provider

Learn about the types of physicians and other providers involved in Alzheimer’s care, and find resources, such as Alzheimer’s Research Centers, for selecting one.

Your First Appointment

Bring our list of questions to ask and people to have with you as you discuss your medical care with your health care team.

Legal and Financial Planning

If you are in the very early stages of Alzheimer’s, you may still be able to make decisions regarding powers of attorney, wills, and living trusts. If the disease is advanced, a court may appoint someone to handle the patient’s financial affairs.

Government Benefits Programs

See if you qualify for Medicare, Medicaid, or other federal and state programs and services to help with the costs and burdens of care.

Insurance and Long-term Care

When a patient is no longer able to stay at home, know the range of senior housing options, health care facilities, and services available. Long-term care policies are no longer an option after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. However, some resources may help with payments.

About BrightFocus Foundation

BrightFocus Foundation is a premier global nonprofit funder of research to defeat Alzheimer’s, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Through its flagship research programs — Alzheimer’s Disease Research, Macular Degeneration Research, and National Glaucoma Research— the Foundation has awarded nearly $300 million in groundbreaking research funding over the past 51 years and shares the latest research findings, expert information, and resources to empower the millions impacted by these devastating diseases. Learn more at brightfocus.org.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is a public service of BrightFocus Foundation and is not intended to constitute medical advice. Please consult your physician for personalized medical, dietary, and/or exercise advice. Any medications or supplements should only be taken under medical supervision. BrightFocus Foundation does not endorse any medical products or therapies.

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