A variety of clinical research trials are underway with agents that try either to decrease the amount of Aβ1-42 produced or increase the amount of Aβ1-42 removed. It is hoped that such therapies may slow down the rate of progression of Alzheimer’s disease. As of June 2007, it is not known how well such therapies may work.
Caring for the caregiver and Alzheimer’s disease resources
Caring for the caregiver is an essential element of managing the patient with Alzheimer’s disease. Caregiving is a distressing experience. On the other hand, caregiver education delays nursing home placement of Alzheimer’s disease patients. The 3Rs – Repeat, Reassure, and Redirect – can help caregivers reduce troublesome behaviors and limit the use of medications. The short-term educational programs are well liked by family caregivers and can lead to a modest increase in disease knowledge and greater confidence among caregivers. Educational training for staffs of long-term care facilities can decrease the use of antipsychotics in Alzheimer’s disease patients.
Caregivers should be directed to support services, particularly the Alzheimer’s Association (1-800-272-3900, www.alz.org/chapter/).
