Often we are reminded of the challenges faced by those living with Alzheimer’s disease, those that are caring for someone living with the disease and of the significant increases in people diagnosed with the disease.  However, doctors are beginning to see signs that optimistically indicate that significant treatment options, or even a cure, are on the horizon. At the recent Alzheimer’s Association’s International Conference held in Copenhagen, Denmark, new material, research and potential treatment options were presented.  After attending that conference, one doctor came away with five reasons to be optimistic.

1. There is significant research that continues to suggest that modifying lifestyle factors can either prevent or delay the onset of dementia from Alzheimer’s disease.   Researchers presented evidence that shows exercise, a healthy diet and minimal alcohol intake along with effective management of various health related diseases can indeed delay or prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
2. Two promising immune therapies may slow cognitive decline and the course of the disease.  These two new therapy trials indicate that clearing amyloid protein build up at the earliest stages of the disease may benefit many people living with Alzheimer’s.
3. Alzheimer’s can now be viewed with brain-imaging tools.  Physicians are now using FDA-approved brain-imaging tools to detect amyloid plaques in people living with Alzheimer’s, and also in people who have yet to be diagnosed.  Those who have yet to be diagnosed can now pay attention to the early signs of the disease, and seek early treatment.
4. Treatments that target systemic inflammation offer promise to those living with Alzheimer’s disease.  Inflammation is a known factor in Alzheimer’s disease.  New clinical trials that target inflammation have shown hints of stabilizing cognitive decline.
5. A number of new drugs to treat the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease are in development.  There are a few highly promising studies that are currently underway and show some significant promise.

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