Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease gradually affects your memory, language and ability to complete familiar tasks. We share your goal of protecting skills and minimizing progression. Spectrum Health's memory disorder specialty team is the only one of its kind in West Michigan. 

Alzheimer's disease is a type of dementia that progressively affects the brain and nervous system. This disease often causes problems with memory and behavior. While there is no cure, it is accurately diagnosed in nine out of 10 cases, after physicians have ruled out all other conditions. A customized treatment plan will help manage your symptoms.

Though Alzheimer’s can’t be cured, we have options for you and your loved ones to discuss. As research advances, we're zeroing in to find new medicines to slow the progression of symptoms. Today, we can offer effective ways to manage specific symptoms, such as depression, behavior problems and sleep issues. 

Your care team includes your family, working with a neurologist, neuropsychologist, social worker and pharmacist. We recognize that if you are living with Alzheimer’s, you depend more and more on family members for basic care. So we offer ongoing support to help all of you manage better at home. Learn more about Alzheimer's resources and treatments we offer below.

Newly approved drugs for Alzheimer's can temporarily prevent symptoms from worsening, especially when taken during the early stages of Alzheimer's. Currently, medicine can improve depression, behavior problems and sleep problems.

Because depression is a common symptom, anti-depressants can help elevate your mood and restore your emotional sense of well-being.