The number of fatalities due to Alzheimer’s disease has increased by a staggering 141% between 2000 and 2021, according to the 2024 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report. With the number of Americans living with the disease now at 6.9 million and counting, experts are emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and intervention.
Dr. James Galvin, chief of cognitive neurology and director of the Comprehensive Center for Brain Health at The University of Miami Health System, highlighted the fact that older adults, particularly baby boomers born between 1946 and 1964, are the fastest-growing segment of the population and are at the highest risk for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
Early detection and diagnosis are crucial as they allow families to plan for future care while the patient is still able to express their wishes and desires. Additionally, many available medications to reduce symptoms are most effective when started early in the course of the disease. Patients who are diagnosed early also have a better chance of enrolling in clinical trials for new medications and diagnostics.
Recent studies have suggested a link between erectile dysfunction medications like Viagra and a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease. This new information provides hope for patients and their families, as newer medications with the potential for disease modification are being approved or considered for approval.
Dr. Heather Sandison, a leading expert in Alzheimer’s and related dementia care, believes that in some cases, the disease can be slowed or even reversed. She emphasizes the importance of lifestyle changes, including a diet high in vegetables, good fats, and proteins, regular exercise, quality sleep, and stress management practices.
Sandison’s “connection over correction” approach aims to help caregivers deal with the emotional toll of caring for loved ones with dementia. By focusing on connecting with the individual and accepting their current capacity, caregivers can reduce stress and improve the quality of life for both themselves and their loved ones.
Overall, experts agree that there is hope for preventing and even reversing Alzheimer’s disease through a combination of lifestyle changes, early detection, and innovative treatments. The myth that nothing can be done to prevent or reverse dementia is being debunked, offering new possibilities for those affected by this devastating disease.
