Almost nothing scares people more than the threat of dementia as they age, especially Alzheimer's disease (AD). That's why every time we forget our keys, or as so often happens to me, directions our spouse left us about what to do in her absence, we worry that these may be - no, we are certain they are - the first signs of dementia, which is nonsense, of course. more >>

• Alzheimer's disease - is a cure close at hand?
• Treating Alzheimer's: relieving symptoms and maintaining the quality of life

Mad cow disease is a disease that only cows develop; however, it is related to a disease that affects humans, called Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD). more >>

• The best way to prevent the mad cow disease
• Symptoms of Huntington's Disease

Your involvement in your parents' care may start very suddenly with an illness or an accident. Chances are, it will be clear at that time what you need to do. But if things progress more gradually, it can be difficult to know when you should step in and how much you should do. This can be made even more difficult if your parent or parents insist they can "handle it." How do you know when to step in? more >>

• Prepare everyone emotionally well in advance
• Taking care of yourself
• Early steps in taking care of your parents