Surprising Science — June 28, 2010

I’m a Doctor & I Have Alzheimer’s

Retired physician and emeritus professor Arthur Rivin shares insights on the increasingly common disease which 5.3 million Americans also have.

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Retired physician and emeritus professor Arthur Rivin shares his insights on the increasingly common disease which 5.3 million Americans also have. There’s not much we know about Alzheimer’s but Rivin has some practical tips for anyone with memory problems. These include carrying a small notebook, keeping active (mentally and physically), and “don’t withdraw from your friends and your family.” “I’ve tried to make sure that those who love me know my wishes. When I do not know who I am, or recognize anyone, and I am incapacitated with no chance of improvement, I want comfort and palliative care only.”

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