Theres so much to process after an Alzheimers diagnosis.
Alzheimers diseasedoesnt have a cure, meaning no treatment can reverse the damage thats already occurred in the brain.
But that doesnt mean life has to come to a screeching halt.
Danii Pollehn/Adobe Stock
That last factor is particularly significant, so its essential to understand the options.
Several medications may ease Alzheimers symptoms or temporarily slow the diseases progression.
Thats where cholinesterase inhibitors can come in.
These treatments are typically taken in pill form; rivastigmine can also be applied as a skin patch.
People with Alzheimers tend to have an abnormal buildup of two proteins in their brains: amyloid and tau.
However, the buzz surrounding the medications comes with big caveats.
Not everyone in the field agrees with the utility of these new drugs, Dr. Skylar-Scott tells SELF.
But for the right person, they can be worth a shot, she says.
An atypical antipsychotic may also be prescribed.
Right now brexpiprazole (brand name Rexulti) is the only FDA-approved option for managing Alzheimers-related agitation.
Other atypicalantipsychoticsare sometimes prescribed off-label to help with symptoms like hallucinations, aggression, or delusions.
Lifestyle adjustments can also help improve your quality of life.
Medication is just one piece of the puzzle.
What do they like to do?
And whats the safest way tokeep them engaged in daily life?
Its all about focusing on a persons cognitive strengths instead of their cognitive weakness, Dr. Skylar-Scott points out.
Experts are optimistic about the future of Alzheimers treatment.
For example, researchers have established asignificant linkbetween hearing loss and cognitive decline in the last few years.
Then theres the winding path to pinpointing new treatments that are safe and effective.
According to ananalysispublished last year, at least 164 clinical trials explored 127 potential Alzheimers drug developments in 2024.
Still, recent advancements have fueled optimism.
Get more of SELFs great coverage delivered right to your inbox.
