Alzheimer’s disease is a complex form of dementia that affects millions of Americans and has significant impacts on individuals, families, communities, and our health care system. First discovered in 1906, Alzheimer’s has become one of the leading causes of death in the U.S. More than impairing memory, Alzheimer’s affects multiple areas of life, including cognition, communication, behavior, physical health, and emotional well-being.
With over 50 years of experience in providing senior living services, the treatment team at Buckner Villas is well-versed in the impacts of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Through our senior memory care services, we provide exceptional care and support for our residents and their families.
Call 512.580.9882 to speak with our admissions team about our senior memory care services.
Current Research on Alzheimer’s Disease
Today’s research on Alzheimer’s is expansive and multifaceted. Researchers cast a wide net to investigate areas such as disease mechanisms, predictive factors, prevention, early detection, and the development of new treatments in searching for a cure. Some of the highlights of current research include:
- Drug development and repurposing – In addition to developing new drugs to stop or slow the progression of Alzheimer’s, researchers are exploring ways to utilize current medications, such as ones approved for epilepsy, for the potential to treat dementia.
- Early detection and diagnosis – Significant progress has been made in developing, testing, and validating biomarkers that can identify signs of the development of Alzheimer’s, including a commercial blood test, specialized PET scans, and behavioral and social indicators.
- Population studies – Researchers have identified genes, lifestyle choices, behaviors, and demographics that may increase the risk of developing dementia through studying large, diverse population groups.
- Cognitive testing – Researchers are developing new cognitive assessment tools to help detect subtle cognitive impairments that may be related to dementia earlier.
- Immunotherapy – Several vaccines and antibodies that target amyloid and tau proteins, which are known to play a significant role in Alzheimer’s, are in multiple clinical trials.
There are multiple other areas of research on Alzheimer’s disease being conducted by federal agencies and organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association, which is the world’s largest nonprofit funder of Alzheimer’s and dementia research.
What We Are Learning from Alzheimer’s Disease Studies
Advances in treating and finding a cure for Alzheimer’s are not possible without robust research outside of laboratories, particularly studies that involve people. Alzheimer’s disease research includes clinical trials, where researchers test interventions to treat or prevent Alzheimer’s, and observational studies that allow researchers to gather important information. These studies rely on volunteers so researchers can study critical areas, including:
- Disease onset and progression
- The impacts of behavior and lifestyle choices
- The effects of socioeconomic and other demographic factors
- The safety and effectiveness of particular interventions
The National Institute on Aging (NIA) currently funds more than 30 Alzheimer’s Disease Research Centers nationwide and more than 400 active clinical trials.
What to Expect from Memory Care Services
Buckner Villas is a leader in memory care services in Austin, TX. We provide safe and secure care in a home-like environment where residents live at their highest level of independence while having around-the-clock supervision and access to care.
At The Harbor, our dementia care program, residents have access to services and amenities, including:
- Outdoor gardens and walking paths
- Housekeeping and laundry services
- Apartment repairs and maintenance
- Three chef-prepared meals daily
- Community living and dining spaces
- Cable television and WiFi
- Social clubs and activities
- Health and wellness programs
- Group outings and volunteer opportunities
- Transportation services
- Medication management
- Assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs)
Our memory care services are also available for families needing daytime or short-term respite care for loved ones not ready for residential memory care services.
Call Buckner Villas Today for Memory Care Services
Receiving an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, whether for yourself or a loved one, can be devastating. Because Alzheimer’s does not follow a linear course and impacts everyone differently, preparing for it can be challenging. Memory care experts recommend making a care plan as early as possible so everyone knows what to expect. Buckner Villas is here when you need help with memory care planning or services.
Contact us online or call 512.580.9882 to get help today.