Will Alzheimer’s ever be cured? Medical experts, individuals living with Alzheimer’s, and their loved ones have long sought a silver bullet to end the disease that continues to kill more people than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined. There are still no drugs that have been proven to treat Alzheimer’s and dementia and mitigate the cognitive problems it causes. Even so, experts agree that non-pharmacological strategies, including Alzheimer’s therapy activities, may improve the lives of people living with the disease.
Aducanumab: What’s the new Alzheimer’s drug?
The FDA-approved Alzheimer’s drug aducanumab was granted accelerated approval in June 2021. Understandably, people living with Alzheimer’s disease and their loved ones are desperate to find a cure. However, experts dispute the usefulness and effectiveness of aducanumab of the drug.
Aducanumab, sold under the brand name Adulhelm, addresses amyloid plaques. These are accumulations of protein that form between neurons in the brains of people living with Alzheimer’s. However, a new study by the University of California San Diego School of Medicine published in late 2019 suggests that amyloid plaques do not actually cause Alzheimer’s disease. Past trials for anti-amyloid drugs have failed. This begs a new way of looking at effective treatment for Alzheimer’s.
Between two large phase 3 clinical trials conducted to test the drug’s safety, side effects, and effectiveness, one turned out negative. Coming from these results, Dr. Andrew Budson, MD of Harvard Medical School argues it’s not yet certain whether aducanumab works or not. Moreover, he also pointed out the minute benefits of the drug.
Aducanumab cost is also very expensive, especially for a marginally effective drug. Specifically, Biogen estimates that annual costs for the drug can go up to US$56,000. A cost-effective price for the drug ranges between $2,500-8,300 per year. This steep price tag makes the drug inaccessible to most, and if covered by medicare, may likely overwhelm the system’s resources.
What activities help those living with Alzheimer’s?
Enhancing quality of life is important when caring for dementia and individuals living with Alzheimer’s. Indeed, keeping individuals actively engaged in Alzheimer’s therapy activities, daily movement, and cognitive exercises are helpful for both mind and body. They may even slow the progression of the disease.
Ensuring enjoyment is key in facilitating Alzheimer’s therapy activities. Furthermore, focusing on creating great work or perfection can add to a patient’s frustration. It’s a good idea to engage in activities that highlight the person’s existing talents and skills. Moreover, it helps for both the patient and caregiver to celebrate small accomplishments.
Here are some ideas for dementia-friendly activities and their benefits.
Exercise
Exercise is fundamental to aging well. Research shows that reducing physical inactivity by 25% could prevent up to one million cases of dementia from happening worldwide.
There are a wide variety of exercises for people living with dementia to enjoy, based on their physical ability and interests. In addition, incorporating physical activity into daily activities such as household chores and gardening provide numerous benefits for brain health. For those intimidated by exercise, getting active with housework may be a more sustainable option to get moving.
Social interaction
Among the many therapeutic activities for people with dementia, reminiscence is a great way to stimulate social interaction and meaningful conversations between the patient and their caregiver or loved ones. Looking back at old memories can greatly improve their mood. Also, reminiscing protects the brain from the effects of depression and loneliness.
Initiate reminiscence therapy by going through old photos, crafting scrapbooks, or even listening to their favorite music, or watching their favorite films.
Enjoying music and art
Music is a powerful way to engage people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia. This applies even in the late stages of the disease. For people who are having difficulty speaking or communicating, music enables them to express themselves and connect with others.
In addition, music can improve mood, manage behavioral issues that may stem from the disease, and decrease agitation.
Dance, exercise, or simple movements like clapping and tapping can also provide additional health benefits and enjoyment.
Discover more Alzheimer’s therapy activities with Joygage
Traditional ways of improving the lives of people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia are focused on disease management. These include the administration of drugs, treating physical issues, or attempting to slow the progression of the disease.
At Joygage, we focus on promoting the person’s well-being and quality of life. This is done through engagement in activities, stimulating memories, creating strong connections and relationships with loved ones, and providing respite to their caregivers.
Join the Joygage community today. Use the code PURPLEPOWER to start your free 30-day subscription and acess our on-demand engagement service, and discover how we can help improve the daily happiness, quality of life, and dignity of people living with dementia.