Alzheimer’s Disease: What Changing Treatment Options Mean for Families

When a parent begins repeating questions or struggling with familiar tasks, families often wonder: “Is this normal aging—or something more?”

Alzheimer’s disease progressively affects memory, thinking, and daily functioning. Changes in the brain include abnormal amyloid plaques and tau tangles. Getting an evaluation helps families understand what is happening and discuss appropriate care.

What has changed?

Blood tests are becoming part of the diagnostic process. They can help clinicians identify evidence of Alzheimer’s, but a blood test alone does not replace a medical history, examination, and assessment of thinking and daily abilities.

Treatment delivery is also changing. The FDA has approved a starting regimen for an under-the-skin form of lecanemab that allows eligible patients to begin treatment at home, administered by themselves or a caregiver. Treatment is intended for early Alzheimer’s with confirmed amyloid pathology. It carries risks, including brain swelling and bleeding, and requires medical oversight and monitoring.

What should caregivers ask?

Bring concrete examples to the appointment: missed bills, repeated conversations, medication mistakes, or difficulty preparing meals. Ask:

What could be causing these changes?

Would Alzheimer’s biomarker testing help?

Which treatments might fit my parent’s condition?

What monitoring, costs, and caregiver responsibilities would treatment involve?

There is still no cure for Alzheimer’s, but treatments may help symptoms or slow disease progression in eligible patients.

You do not have to understand every medical term today. Start with one appointment, a written list of concerns, and someone who can support you.