If 2021 will be remembered as the year for COVID-19 vaccines, perhaps 2022 will make its mark with a different type of life-changing vaccine: a vaccine for Alzheimer’s that may actually slow or prevent the further advancement of the disease.
The first human trial of Protollin, delivered by way of nasal spray, has begun in 16 seniors between the ages of 60 and 85 with early-stage Alzheimer’s symptoms. The desired end result will be to activate immune cells which will eliminate the beta-amyloid plaque believed to result in the disease.
Arriving on the heels of controversial results of Biogen’s Aduhelm, the first new approved drug for Alzheimer’s in decades, the stakes are high. Aduhelm is an antibody infusion that initially seemed to fail in its goal of improving memory and cognition functioning, leading Biogen to discontinue clinical trials. Yet a number of months later, there did seem to be a beneficial impact in a small number of participants, leading the FDA to approve its use – even though the results are not definitively clear.
Identifying an effective preventative or treatment option for Alzheimer’s is critical. The most recent data show approximately 747,000 Canadians currently living with the disease. And that figure might only be scratching the surface, as it represents only those clinically diagnosed. We know that those with cognitive impairment may struggle with receiving an appropriate diagnosis, and that they often are challenged by other health issues as well.
Scientists are hopeful that Protollin, along with Aduhelm as well as other antibody drugs undergoing study, are placing us on a promising path forward. Jeffrey Cummings, a University of Nevada, Las Vegas brain-science professor, goes as far as to say, “It just feels like we have turned a corner.”
As the leading provider of Oak Bay senior care and care throughout the surrounding areas, our elder care experts are helping seniors with Alzheimer’s each day, and we excitedly look forward to a day when the disease is defeated. Until then, we are here for you with personalized, creative care in order to make life the very best it can be for older adults with dementia.
It’s also very important for family members caring for someone with dementia to safeguard their own health by ensuring plenty of time for self-care. Our dementia respite care team can help you set up a schedule for regular time away – as much or as little as you wish. We are skilled in effective management of many difficult signs of the disease, including wandering, aggression, agitation, sundowning, and many more.
Call us at any time at 250.590.8098 for a complimentary assessment for additional information.