Alzheimer’s disease is a major public health concern globally and has been
identified as a research priority. Although this disease has been recognized for more
than a century, there is an urgent need to improve our understanding of its pathogenesis
in order to advance development of disease-modifying treatments. Clinical diagnosis of
Alzheimer’s disease remains the main method of identifying the disease but
neuroimaging and biomarkers are emerging as adjunct tests in selective cases. Only a
few pharmacological treatments are available for Alzheimer’s disease and modest
benefits are only observed in the mild-to-moderate disease. Without effective
treatment, non-pharmacological approaches and prevention remain important. Nonpharmacological
approaches such as exercise, cognitive stimulation therapy and
computerized mind games are potentially beneficial in slowing the progression of
Alzheimer’s disease. Behavioural and psychological symptoms in Alzheimer’s disease
are still challenging to manage and require a combination of non-pharmacological and
pharmacological approaches. Several novel therapies are currently under investigation
and clinical trials of these agents will reveal if they are beneficial in the treatment of
Alzheimer’s disease.
Keywords: Alzheimer’s disease, Anticholinesterase inhibitors, Behavioural
symptoms, Carers, Cognitive impairment, Dementia, Diagnosis, Lifestyle
modifications, Memantine, Psychological symptoms, Treatment.
