September 6, 2016 by
With Alzheimer’s research dollars now totaling over $900 million, is it possible the race towards finding a cure for Alzheimer’s disease could be entering the home stretch? As those with family members affected by the disease watch the trials proceed and anxiously await some positive results, the variety of trials – some more successful than others – seem to be pointing to a similar end result: rather than one solution to cure Alzheimer’s, medications in conjunction with lifestyle changes will likely be needed to defeat the disease.
With results expected sometime this year, one of the studies is of particular interest, showing promising results in reducing beta-amyloid levels in the brain – the protein thought to play a role in destroying the neuron. A study of vaccines is also underway, along with a trial to track changes in the brain as a preventative measure for those who are at heightened risk due to certain gene mutations, but who are not yet exhibiting symptoms.
According to Ronald Petersen, the director of the Mayo Clinic Study of Aging and Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, “It’s a breathholding time for the field; I think the field is in so much of a need of some kind of positive indication that we are on the right track. I think we can have a little more optimism about drug trials that are coming down the road.”
At Home Independent Living, as always, is keeping track of research towards an Alzheimer’s cure, and we’re here to assist with dementia care in Syracuse, NY and the surrounding areas. If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, contact At Home Independent Living any time if you would like a partner in Alzheimer’s care.