BACKGROUND: According to the Alzheimer's Association, more than five million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease. Every 72 seconds, someone is diagnosed with it. The disease destroys brain cells, causing the memory loss that follows. It is a progressive, fatal disease with no known cure and is currently the 7th leading cause of death in the United States. There are several stages of Alzheimer's, ranging from no impairment to very severe cognitive decline (late-stage Alzheimer's).

TREATMENTS: There is no cure for Alzheimer's, but several different drugs on the market may help with the cognitive and behavioral symptoms associated with the disease. Cholinesterase inhibitors are often used to prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine, a key chemical needed for learning and memory. The drug memantine is often used to regulate glutamate activity. Behavioral symptoms can be treated with several different drugs. During the various stages of disease, patients with Alzheimer's may experience physical outbursts, emotional distress and hallucinations.

ART AND MUSIC: Art and music programs are popping up around the country for people with Alzheimer's disease. Art and music can ease the anxiety, confusion and frustration that is so common in people with the disease. Some experts believe participating in an art program can help patients retrieve deeply-held memories and creative impulses that remain intact as the disease progresses. It can also strengthen analytical and logical brain functions that have been damaged by the disease. One small study in 12 patients published in 2005 shows weekly sessions helped Alzheimer's patients focus their attention for 30 to 45 minutes. Another study shows half of patients in an art program had a significant improvement in memory.

GET INVOLVED: The best place to look to find out if there is an art program for Alzheimer's patients in your area is to call the local Alzheimer's Association office. Caregivers can also try to engage patients at home. The Alzheimer's Association offers these guidelines on its Web site:

» Keep the project on an adult level. Avoid anything that might be demeaning or seem child-like.

» Build conversation into the project. Provide encouragement, discuss what the person is creating and try to initiate a bit of creative storytelling or reminiscence.

» Help the person begin the activity. If the person is painting, you may need to start the brush movement.

» Most other projects should only require basic instruction and assistance.

» Use safe materials. Avoid toxic substances and sharp tools.

» Allow plenty of time to complete the art project.

» The person doesn’t have to finish the project in one sitting.

» Remember: The artwork is complete when the person says it is.