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Medical Author:

Norberto Alvarez, MD

Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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With assistance, many individuals can live on their own during the early stage of Alzheimer's disease.

• Arrange for someone to help you with housekeeping, chores, meals, and transportation. For information about assistance available in your community, contact your local chapter of the Alzheimer's Association or your physician.
  
  
• Make arrangements for direct deposit of checks, such as your paycheck (if you work), pension, and Social Security benefits.
  
  
• Make arrangements for help in paying bills. You can give someone you trust the legal authority to handle financial matters.
  
  
• Have family, friends, or a community service program call or visit daily. Keep a list of things for these people to check and a list of concerns to discuss with them.
  
  
• Give a set of house keys to a trusted neighbor.
  
  
• Ask someone to regularly check your smoke alarm, fire alarm, and other security devices.

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