The prevention and treatment of cognitive impairment in the elderly has assumed 
increasing importance in an aging population. This article presents a 
qualitative review of recent research on experimental interventions for the 
prevention and treatment of mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease in 
elderly subjects. Interventions addressed range from lifestyle measures to 
pharmacological treatments. Epidemiological studies suggest that dietary 
measures, physical exercise, and mental activity may reduce the risk of 
cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease in elderly subjects. Statins may 
protect against incident dementia, and lithium may convey similar benefits to 
bipolar patients. Ginkgo appears ineffective as a primary preventive measure. 
Donepezil but not Vitamin E may benefit persons with mild cognitive impairment. 
Experimental treatments potentially useful for Alzheimer's disease include 
dimebon, PBT2 and etanercept; the safety and efficacy of the Alzheimer's vaccine 
remains to be proven, and growth hormone secretagogue and tarenflurbil are 
likely ineffective. Herbal treatments merit study in elderly subjects with 
cognitive syndromes.