Kensington Park, an enhanced senior living community, is proud to host an upcoming event focusing on one of our most pressing health issues: Alzheimer’s disease.
Join us for our special event on October 23rd from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm, “Alzheimer’s Disease: Where We Are & Where We’re Headed in 2025.”
We will feature appetizers, drinks, and mingling in our Bistro, followed by a 6 pm – 7 pm presentation by Dr. Laurie Ryan. Chief of the Clinical Interventions and Diagnostics Branch at the National Institute on Aging (NIA) and part of the NIH, she will provide valuable insight into the latest advancements and the future trajectory of this critical work as we look ahead to 2025 and beyond.
We hope you’ll RSVP today to join us!
As Alzheimer’s research continues to evolve, the need for accurate diagnosis and effective treatments has become more critical than ever.
Kensington Park is dedicated to caring for those affected by Alzheimer’s and all types of dementia and educating the community about the best practices and newest developments in managing this complex condition.
The importance of early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease
Alzheimer’s disease is notoriously difficult to diagnose in its early stages, often leading to delays in treatment that can affect a patient’s quality of life.
However, recent medical technology and research advancements offer hope for earlier and more accurate disease detection, allowing for timely interventions.
Biomarker testing: A new frontier in diagnosis
One of the most significant breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s diagnosis is the development of biomarker testing.
Biomarkers are measurable indicators that can reveal the presence of disease before symptoms appear.
In Alzheimer’s, two critical biomarkers—beta-amyloid and tau proteins—build up in the brain, contributing to the cognitive decline that defines the disease.
- Blood tests for Alzheimer’s: New blood tests that detect beta-amyloid and tau protein levels are revolutionizing Alzheimer’s diagnosis. These tests offer a non-invasive way to detect early signs of the disease, potentially years before cognitive symptoms become evident. For families and caregivers, earlier detection means more time to prepare and explore treatment options that may slow the progression of Alzheimer’s.
- Advanced imaging techniques: Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans are another crucial tool in diagnosing Alzheimer’s. PET scans use tracers that bind to amyloid or tau proteins, allowing doctors to see the buildup of these harmful proteins in the brain. This imaging technique has proven highly effective in diagnosing Alzheimer’s, especially with cognitive assessments.
Cognitive testing
While cognitive assessments have long been used to diagnose Alzheimer’s, the tools and methods have significantly improved in recent years.
Early cognitive testing is critical to diagnosing mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a condition that often precedes Alzheimer’s.
- Computerized cognitive assessments: Modern technology has allowed doctors to use computerized tests to assess brain function more accurately and efficiently. These tests can identify subtle changes in memory, reasoning, and problem-solving skills, giving a clearer picture of a person’s cognitive health. Regular testing allows for tracking the progression of the disease and adjusting treatment plans as needed.
- Neuropsychological Testing: In some cases, a more in-depth neuropsychological evaluation is necessary to diagnose Alzheimer’s. These tests measure specific areas of cognitive function, such as memory, language, and attention, helping pinpoint the brain most affected by Alzheimer’s. Identifying these cognitive changes can lead to earlier interventions and better patient outcomes.
Emerging treatments for Alzheimer’s disease
While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, recent developments in both pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical treatments offer hope for slowing the disease’s progression and improving quality of life.
This Kensington Park event will explore these cutting-edge treatment options and discuss how they can benefit Alzheimer’s residents.
FDA-approved medications: Targeting the disease at its source
One of the most promising areas of Alzheimer’s research is the development of drugs that target the underlying causes of the disease rather than just managing its symptoms.
- Aducanumab (Aduhelm): In 2021, the FDA approved the first drug to target the accumulation of amyloid plaques in the brain. These plaques are a hallmark of Alzheimer’s, and reducing them may slow the progression of the disease. While Aducanumab has sparked some controversy regarding its cost and efficacy, it represents a significant step forward in Alzheimer’s treatment by addressing the root cause of cognitive decline.
- Lecanemab (Leqembi): Approved in 2023, Lecanemab is another amyloid-targeting drug that has shown promise in clinical trials. Lecanemab works by reducing beta-amyloid plaques in the brain, potentially slowing cognitive decline in patients with early-stage Alzheimer’s. While not cures, these drugs offer hope for extending the quality of life for those in the early stages of the disease.
- Donanemab: developed by Eli Lilly and Company, and recently approved for treating Alzheimer’s disease. Donanemab is a monoclonal antibody that binds to a particular form of amyloid-beta, a protein that accumulates in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. This binding facilitates the removal of these plaques through the body’s immune system, potentially halting further neuronal damage and slowing disease progression.
Non-pharmaceutical interventions
- Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST): CST involves structured group activities that stimulate cognitive function in people with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s. This therapy focuses on activities that engage memory, problem-solving, and social interaction, which may help slow cognitive decline and enhance the quality of life.
- Lifestyle Changes: Research shows that lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and sleep play a crucial role in brain health. A heart-healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, has been linked to a lower risk of Alzheimer’s. Regular physical activity and getting enough sleep are also essential in reducing the risk of cognitive decline and managing the progression of Alzheimer’s.
Kensington Park’s commitment to Alzheimer’s care and education
Kensington Park has long been a trusted leader in providing specialized care for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
We understand the unique challenges that come with caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, and we are committed to supporting families through every stage of the disease.
Our upcoming event reflects this commitment by providing the latest information on Alzheimer’s diagnosis and treatment options from leading experts in the field.
Families and caregivers can make well-informed decisions about their loved one’s care by staying informed and connected with the latest research.
Stay informed on Alzheimer’s diagnosis advancements
At Kensington Park, we regularly host events that bring together top experts in Alzheimer’s research and care.
These events inform our residents, their families, and the wider community about the latest developments in diagnosis, treatment, and care strategies for Alzheimer’s disease.
By staying connected with Kensington Park, you’ll be at the forefront of this evolving field, gaining essential knowledge to help your loved ones receive the best care possible.
Contact Kensington Park Senior Living to learn more about our communities and services and to join our upcoming event.