Now What? Next Steps After an Alzheimer’s Diagnosis

A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease can be difficult, but getting accurate information and support can help you know what to expect and what to do next. Use this checklist to help you get started.

Learn about Alzheimer’s disease

Being informed will help you know what to expect as the disease progresses. Here are some resources:

Get regular medical care

  • Make regular appointments with your primary care doctor or specialist (neurologist, neuropsychiatrist, geriatric psychiatrist).
  • Consider going to a specialized memory disorders clinic. Ask your doctor for a referral if desired.

Find local services and support

Do some legal, financial, and long-term care planning

Get help as needed with day-to-day tasks

  • Use simple memory aids like a notepad or sticky notes to jot down reminders, a pillbox to keep medications organized, and a calendar to record appointments.
  • Ask family members or friends or find local services to help with routine tasks, such as cooking, paying bills, transportation, or shopping.
  • Consider using technology solutions for medication management, safety (e.g., emergency response, door alarms), and other care.
  • See tips about coping daily, sharing your diagnosis, changes in relationships, and more.

Be safe at home

Stay safe on the road

  • Talk with your doctor if you become confused, get lost, or need lots of help with directions, or if others worry about your driving.
  • Get a driving evaluation. Ask your doctor for names of driving evaluators, or visit the American Occupational Therapy Association.
  • Learn about driving safety.

Consider participating in a clinical trial

  • Ask your doctor about trials or studies at local medical centers or universities.
  • Contact an Alzheimer’s Disease Center for assessment and potential research opportunities.
  • Search for a clinical trial or study near you:
  • Learn more about clinical trials:

Stay healthy

  • Be active! Getting exercise helps people with Alzheimer’s feel better and helps keep their muscles, joints, and heart in good shape.
  • Eat a well-balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain products.
  • Continue to enjoy visits with family and friends, hobbies, and outings.

If you live alone

  • Identify someone who can visit you regularly and be an emergency contact.
  • If you are at risk of falling, order an emergency response system. A special pendant or bracelet lets you summon help if you fall and can’t reach the phone.
  • Consider working with an occupational therapist. This person can teach you ways to stay independent. Ask your doctor for more information.
  • Get tips about self-care, preventing falls, staying connected, and more.
  • Stick with familiar places, people, and routines. Simplify your life.

If you are working

  • If you have problems performing your job, consider reducing your hours or switching to a less demanding position.
  • Consult your employer’s HR department or employee assistance program about family leave, disability benefits, and other employee benefits.