Understanding Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer's disease is a brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, eventually affecting a person's ability to carry out even the simplest tasks. The disease involves changes in the brain, including the buildup of abnormal proteins called amyloid plaques and tau tangles, which can begin years before the first symptoms appear. It's the most common cause of dementia among older adults, affecting more than 6 million Americans.
You'll often hear the phrase "Alzheimer's disease and related dementias" (AD/ADRD) because dementia encompasses several conditions affecting memory, thinking, and behavior. While Alzheimer's is the most common type, others include Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and vascular dementia.
Find answers to common questions about Alzheimer's disease, from understanding symptoms to finding support and getting involved in research.
Ways to Make an Impact
Learn About AD/ADRD
Understanding AD/ADRD is the first step toward making a difference. Explore the National Institute of Aging’s comprehensive resources to learn about:
Participate in a Study
Clinical research needs participants from all backgrounds and walks of life. Whether you're living with AD/ADRD or are a healthy volunteer, you can help advance our understanding of these conditions. Your participation could help:
- Develop new treatments
- Improve diagnostic methods
- Enhance care strategies
- Further prevention research
Get Involved with AD Research
There are many ways to support AD/ADRD research beyond participating in studies:
- Join a research registry
- Advocate for research funding
- Share your story
- Support your local ADRC
- Spread awareness in your community
Why Your Involvement Matters
Every person who gets involved brings us one step closer to better treatments and prevention strategies for AD/ADRD. Your participation helps ensure that research findings are meaningful for people of all backgrounds and experiences.
Did You Know?
- More than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's
- Researchers need participants both with and without memory problems
- Many studies can be completed from home
- Participants receive regular health monitoring
- You can help shape the future of AD/ADRD research and care
About NACC's Role
The National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center (NACC) plays a vital role in advancing Alzheimer's research by coordinating and supporting the network of Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers (ADRCs) across the United States. While we don't provide direct clinical care, our work is essential to scientific discovery. We collect, store, and share valuable research data from ADRCs, helping researchers better understand Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
Our mission depends on people like you who volunteer their time to participate in research at ADRCs. Every participant contributes to our growing understanding of these conditions, bringing us closer to more effective treatments and prevention strategies.
Researchers and scientists are encouraged to learn about collaborating with NACC or accessing our datasets.
Ready to Take Action?
Choose your path to making a difference: