Two drugs are currently approved in the United States for people with early Alzheimer’s disease: donanemab and lecanemab. Unlike older drugs that only relieve symptoms, newer options remove beta-amyloid, the main culprit of cognitive impairment, from the brain. Although they do not offer a cure, they slow down cognitive decline.
The introduction of these drugs was not without controversy. Some doctors and health policy experts have questioned whether the benefits justify the costs and intensive monitoring required. Patients receiving these treatments should have regular MRI scans to monitor for rare but potentially serious side effects, including brain swelling and microbleeds. Coverage varies among Medicare, private insurers, and individual health plans, making access to treatment important for many families.
Expert care
Dedicated to organizations across North America dementia caregiving helps thousands of families navigate what is often a confusing and emotionally demanding process. Fortunately, the Alzheimer’s Association (AA) has a very handy and informative website. Here you can find out what changes to expect at each stage of dementia and what resources are available at each stage. It can also be helpful to find your local Alzheimer’s Association chapter and learn about programs and services in your area, including support groups and educational workshops.
Many people with mild to moderate dementia continue to live in their own homes, supported by spouses, older children, friends and neighbours. They attend day programs offered by long-term care facilities in their area.
When a person with Alzheimer’s (or another dementia) needs more care than can be provided at home, a residential setting may be required. Depending on the severity of the disease, these institutions range pension Assisted living housing (also called board and care, senior living, or assisted care) Nursing homes (also called skilled care facility, long-term care facility, or custodial care) Alzheimer’s special care units (SCUs, also called) memory care units).
I spoke with Audra Young, a DementiAbility teacher who visits various memory departments as a consultant. She spends much of her time helping staff see the person with the diagnosis, encouraging practices that protect dignity, support autonomy, and support quality of life. For Audra, dementia care is based on the fact that memory loss does not eliminate the need for emotional connection.
Visiting the Alzheimer’s Care Unit, I met Julie Bray, Associate Director of Allied Services. His main job, he says, is to improve the quality of life of the population. Like Audra and many other good wrestlers, she has worked at this facility for the past 20 years. The focus here is on creating a home-like environment in which people who may become disoriented, wander, or wander off without realizing danger can move safely and independently.
The doors can only be opened by entering a code, and no one has wandered out of the unit for a very long time. Around the clock, nurses, certified nursing assistants (CNAs), and care aides help with dressing, feeding, and countless other small tasks that help residents stay comfortable and safe. Residents are encouraged to participate in a variety of therapeutic, social, and recreational activities aimed at stimulating the mind, maintaining abilities as long as possible, and reducing frailty. worry and the agitation that often accompanies dementia.
Many of the property’s features reflect its values, such as the height-adjustable tables in the kitchen or the photos next to residents’ doors, usually two pictures of a person, one in their youth or prime of life, and the other recently.
As Julie showed me around the unit, pointing out the different features of the house, addressing everyone we met by name, I asked her how she managed to work in this environment for 20 years. He said he loves his job. For him, the most rewarding moments are to see a person who is anxious, self-absorbed or depressed begin to relax and reconnect with the world around them.
As I said goodbye, I thought how lucky this population is to have such talented and selfless staff.
Love is caring
When someone close to you starts showing signs of dementia, it’s time to “speak up.” These conversations can be difficult and uncomfortable (music isn’t “difficult”). Be prepared to counter all your suggestions and angry, hurtful accusations. No one wants to lose their driver’s license—the road to independence—or leave their comfortable, cherished home for an institutional facility. Sooner or later, you will need to talk openly about legal issues, such as major end-of-life decisions. In this regard, I recommend the Alzheimer’s Association (AA) website.
For caregivers, dealing with the emotions of the people they care for and managing their own emotional reactions can be exhausting. Yet in meeting these demands, caregivers discover unexpected strengths, such as patience and the ability to reassure another. This is not to romanticize adversity, but rather to recognize that adversity can be a source of growth when successfully overcome. Caring can readjust its priorities, draw attention to fundamental aspects of human experience. Engaging with other lives enriches our lives.
Final thoughts
I’m happy to report that the dementia and Alzheimer’s care professionals I’ve met are driven by the belief that everyone deserves to be seen, known, and valued, regardless of age or cognitive ability.
In an age where public discourse is often about division, conflict and self-interest, it is truly gratifying to meet individuals whose lives are dedicated to alleviating the suffering of others.
This article is excerpted from “The gift of caring for people with Alzheimer’s disease,” The Globe and Mail, 26 June 2026.
