This episode of “Changing Times” features host Lynn Morris and guest Marcia Rauwerdink, a long-time advocate and volunteer for the Alzheimer’s Association. The discussion focuses on significant breakthroughs in early detection and the importance of legislative support for new treatments.
Key Breakthroughs & Treatments
- New Blood Tests: As of May 2023, the FDA approved a simple blood test that can determine where a person is on the Alzheimer’s continuum 20:16 Opens in a new window . A second test, developed at Washington University in St. Louis, has also been approved 22:21 Opens in a new window .
- Early Intervention Medications: The discussion highlights two FDA-approved infusion treatments, Lecanemab and Donanemab, which slow the progression of the disease 25:53 Opens in a new window .
- Qualification: These treatments are primarily available to those in the mild cognitive impairment or early-stage Alzheimer’s phases 26:21 Opens in a new window .
Advocacy: The ASAP Act
Marcia discusses the Alzheimer’s Screening and Prevention (ASAP) Act, which aims to:
- Medicare Coverage: Ensure that Medicare covers the cost of new early detection blood tests 36:35 Opens in a new window .
- Accessibility: Make early screening financially accessible for everyone, particularly those in rural areas 37:44 Opens in a new window .
- Legislative Support: The bill is gaining nonpartisan momentum, with 19 senators already signed on as co-sponsors 42:55 Opens in a new window .
Warning Signs to Watch For
The episode outlines several common early symptoms 10:46 Opens in a new window :
- Repeating the same question multiple times in a short period.
- Loss of short-term memory (missing appointments or routines).
- Inability to perform routine tasks, such as balancing a checkbook or following game rules.
- Changes in personality, such as uncharacteristic paranoia.
Proactive Brain Health
Beyond medicine, Marcia emphasizes “healthy habits” to prolong quality of life 28:12 Opens in a new window :
- Challenging the Brain: Learning new skills rather than just repeating familiar ones (like puzzles).
- Lifestyle: Prioritizing sleep, nutrition (like adding one vegetable/fruit a day), and maintaining social connections.
Take Action: The guests encourage viewers to visit alz.org to learn more about the ASAP Act and to contact their local representatives to support early detection coverage52:42 Opens in a new window.
