With as many as 5.7 million seniors currently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease – a full 10% of the over-65 population – and that number likely to rise to as much as 14 million by the year 2050, the race is on as experts scramble to discover a cure or at least a successful treatment option. Besides the emotional toll the condition takes on both those diagnosed and their loved ones, the financial impact is staggering, costing up to $277 billion in 2018 and expected to grow to over $1 trillion by 2050.
The Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation has recently presented its 2017 Alzheimer’s Clinical Trials Report, and the findings are amazing. There are presently 126 Alzheimer’s treatment options in the clinical stage, specifically to deal with symptom management of these common results of Alzheimer’s:
- Anxiety
- Aggression
- Indifference
- Psychosis
- Hopelessness
- Sleep Disorders
Additionally, scientists are searching further into the underlying causes of the disease, beyond the typical suspected beta-amyloid link. Following are the leading kinds of interventions being investigated:
Neuroprotection: A wide range of drugs are showing promising results in preventing neuron damage and improving neuron survival and regeneration.
Chronic Inflammation: Prior studies have attempted to link inflammation with Alzheimer’s; however, the anti-inflammatories tested proved ineffective. And yet, more recent research includes newer inflammation-targeting drugs, aimed at improving the immune cells and removing toxic proteins.
Genetics: Research that began 2 years ago in exploring epigenetic treatment therapy is now moving forward to include a chemotherapy medication to attempt to regulate the expression of certain genes.
Repurposed Medications: Less costly and with shorter testing requirements than new drug development, trials of present medications to test their performance against Alzheimer’s are underway.
Early Intervention: A brand new emphasis will be placed on treating patients who display biological markers indicating an increased risk of developing the condition, although not yet exhibiting symptoms. Even though these trials may involve invasive medical procedures, such as spinal taps, the capability to prevent or at least slow the progression of the disease is really worth considering.
Independence-4-Seniors Home Care will continue to monitor clinical trials and any other progress in the journey towards a breakthrough. We are also available to provide specialized, compassionate, and very skilled dementia care in DuPage County. We start with creating a personalized plan of care to deal with immediate concerns, and then monitor that plan ongoing so that the right level of care is always provided as needs change – right within the comfort of home. Call us at (630) 323-4665to learn more or to schedule a free in-home assessment.