The doctor is looking for signs of small or large strokes, Parkinson’s disease, brain tumors, fluid accumulation on the brain, and other illnesses that may impair memory or thinking. The neurological exam may also include a brain imaging study. The most common types are magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT). MRIs and CTs can reveal tumors, evidence of small or large strokes, damage from severe head trauma or a buildup of fluid. Researchers are studying other imaging techniques so they can better diagnose and track the progress of Alzheimer’s. Once testing is complete, the doctor will make an appointment to review results and share his or her conclusions. A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s reflects a doctor’s best judgment about the cause of a person’s symptoms, based on the testing performed. Find out if the doctor will manage care going forward and, if not, who will be the primary doctor. The doctor can then schedule the next appointment or provide a referral. Alzheimer’s disease is life-changing for both the diagnosed individual and those close to him or her. While there is currently no cure, treatments are available that may help relieve some symptoms. Research has shown that taking full advantage of available treatment, care and support options can improve quality of lifIt is also important to begin making legal and financial plans. A timely diagnosis often allows the person with dementia to participate in this planning. The person can also decide who will make medical and financial decisions on his or her behalf in later stages of the disease. Alzheimer’s Navigator® helps guide individuals facing dementia when planning for the future. This interactive tool evaluates needs, outlines action steps and links the user to local services and Association programs. Visit alz.org/alzheimersnavigator to start planning. Alzheimer’s disease typically progresses slowly in three general stages: early, middle and late (sometimes referred to as mild, moderate and severe in a medical context). Since Alzheimer’s affects people in different ways, each person may experience symptoms — or progress through the stages — differently. The symptoms of Alzheimer’s worsen over time, but because the disease affects people in different ways, the rate of progression varies. On average, a person with Alzheimer’s lives four to eight years after diagnosis, but can live as long as 20 years, depending on other factors. Changes in the brain related to Alzheimer’s begin years before any signs of the disease. This period is referred to as preclinical Alzheimer’s disease. The following stages provide an overall idea of how abilities change once symptoms appear and should be used as a general guide. Stages may overlap, making it difficult to place a person with Alzheimer’s in a specific stage. In the early stage of Alzheimer’s, a person may function independently. He or she may still drive, work and be part of social activities. Despite this, the person may feel as if he or she is having memory lapses, such as forgetting familiar words or the location of everyday objects. Friends, family or others close to the individual begin to notice difficulties. During a detailed medical interview, doctors may be able to detect problems in memory or concentration.