Thirty years ago, we knew very little about Alzheimer’s disease. Since then, scientists have made important advances. Research supported by NIA and other organizations has expanded knowledge of brain function in healthy older people, identified ways we might lessen normal age-related declines in mental function, and deepened our understanding of the disease. Many scientists and physicians are now working together to untangle the genetic, biological, and
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8 July 2011 (Reprinted September 2012)NIH Publication No. 11-6423
environmental factors that, over many years, ultimately result in Alzheimer’s. This effort is bringing us closer to
better managing and, ultimately, preventing this devastating disease.