A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s usually falls into one of the following categories:

• A diagnosis of probable Alzheimer’s indicates that the physician has ruled out all other disorders that may be causing dementia and has come to the conclusion that symptoms are most likely the result of Alzheimer’s disease.
  
  
• A diagnosis of possible Alzheimer’s means that Alzheimer’s disease is probably the primary cause of dementia but that another disorder may be affecting the progression of symptoms.

It is important that you discuss the diagnosis with your physician. Some questions to ask:

• What does the diagnosis mean?
  
  
• Are additional tests needed to confirm the diagnosis?
  
  
• What changes in behavior or mental capacity can be expected over time?
  
  
• What care will be needed, and what treatment is available?
  
  
• What else can be done to alleviate symptoms?
  
  
• Are there clinical trials being conducted in my area?