The major new Alzheimer's treatment approved in 2023 was Lecanemab (Leqembi), a disease-modifying monoclonal antibody that received full FDA approval, slowing cognitive decline in early Alzheimer's by targeting and clearing brain amyloid plaques, though it carries risks like brain swelling (ARIA) and requires regular IV infusions. This marked a significant step as the first such drug with traditional approval in nearly two decades, building on earlier accelerated approvals and paving the way for similar drugs like Donanemab.
Trontinemab is a potential new Alzheimer's drug made by the pharmaceutical company Roche. It is still in development, with a trial due to start in autumn 2025. Early data from smaller trials suggests that this drug may clear a protein linked to Alzheimer's quickly and effectively.
Donanemab, developed by Lilly, is the first disease-modifying treatment for early-stage Alzheimer's disease to be approved for use in Australia.
Blueberries, the well-known 'super fruit,' could help fight Alzheimer's - YouTube.
Vitamin D supplements are linked to a significant reduction in dementia risk, with a major study showing users had a 40% lower incidence of developing dementia compared to non-users, particularly benefiting older adults, with even greater effects seen in women and those without existing cognitive issues. This reduction highlights Vitamin D's role in brain health, possibly by clearing amyloid plaques associated with Alzheimer's.
The vitamins that support overall brain wellness include B vitamins, particularly B6, B12, and folate, as well as vitamin D and vitamin E. These nutrients contribute to cognitive function, memory, and overall brain health.
Many foods — blueberries, leafy greens, and curcumin (found in the spice turmeric), to name a few — have been studied for their potential cognitive benefit. These foods have been thought to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, or other properties that might help protect the brain.
Part of following the MIND diet includes limiting the consumption of unhealthy foods like pastries and sweets, fried foods and salt — all foods known to be harmful to vascular health, which in turn could quicken cognitive decline.
Beverages, such as tea, juices, and wine, are major sources of polyphenols, although many fruits and vegetables and herbs possess polyphenols. Several studies have found that consumption of polyphenols from wine,14 but not tea,14–17 may be associated with a reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease.
Nuts. Pecans, almonds, walnuts, cashews, and peanuts are loaded with healthy fats, magnesium, vitamin E, and B vitamins — all of which are suggested to enhance cognitive function and ward off signs of dementia.
Alzheimer's Rates By Country
Since then, the FDA has approved two more anti-amyloid treatments: lecanemab (Leqembi), made by Eisai in partnership with Biogen, and donanemab (Kisunla) from Eli Lilly. Both slowed cognitive decline better than aducanumab or placebo in clinical studies.
The "2-finger test" for dementia involves an examiner showing a hand gesture (like interlocking index and middle fingers) and asking the patient to copy it, testing motor skills, visual memory, and coordination, as difficulties can signal early cognitive decline, but it's a screening tool, not a definitive diagnosis, prompting further medical evaluation. Other related tests include finger-tapping and finger-to-nose, looking for hesitation or misjudgment in movement.
We are so close to having, if not quite a cure, then very effective therapies for Alzheimer's disease. The two drugs approved by the FDA to treat the causes of Alzheimer's disease work by clearing out amyloid, a protein that forms damaging deposits in the brain.
The role of lifestyle in slowing Alzheimer's disease
Scripture assures us that nothing can separate us from the love of God, not even a dementia that may strip a person of her awareness of God's presence (Romans 8:38-29).
Smoking, low physical activity, and a poor diet are all lifestyle and environmental influences that have been linked to rapid dementia decline. Physical activity promotes cardiovascular health, which in turn improves brain function. Those who lead a sedentary lifestyle may experience faster cognitive decline.
Some studies suggests Souvenaid may support memory function, but it is not a cure for mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease and it will not stop the disease from progressing over time. Souvenaid is produced by Nutricia, a healthcare division of the multi-national French food company, Danone.
Blueberries are a rich source of anthocyanin and other flavonoids that may improve brain function. Grapes are full of resveratrol, a memory-boosting compound. Concord grapes are rich in polyphenols, which have the potential to promote brain function.
Vitamin D supplements are linked to a significant reduction in dementia risk, with a major study showing users had a 40% lower incidence of developing dementia compared to non-users, particularly benefiting older adults, with even greater effects seen in women and those without existing cognitive issues. This reduction highlights Vitamin D's role in brain health, possibly by clearing amyloid plaques associated with Alzheimer's.
The cause of roughly 70% of all dementia cases is Alzheimer's disease, a progressive brain disorder characterized by the buildup of amyloid plaques and tau tangles, leading to memory loss and impaired thinking that interferes with daily life, making it the most common form of dementia.
Eating plenty of apples, bananas, and oranges can also be the best foods for dementia patients to eat. Daily consumption of these types of fruits protects the brain's neuronal cells from neurotoxicity, which is caused by oxidative stress.
According to the Alzheimer's Association, some of the fruits that pack the most punch are blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, raspberries, plums, oranges, red grapes and cherries. Coffee and chocolate are surprisingly good for you.
7 perfect breakfasts for the brain
You Miss Out on Sleep
You do a few things you know you shouldn't -- we all do. But some of those bad habits can take a toll on your brain. For example, lack of sleep may be a cause of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. It's best to have regular sleeping hours.