**Supporting Loved Ones Starting New Dementia Medications**
When a family member begins new dementia treatments like donanemab or lecanemab, it’s normal to feel hopeful but unsure how to help. These medications, given as infusions every 2-4 weeks, aim to slow cognitive decline by targeting amyloid plaques in the brain[1][2]. Here’s how you can provide meaningful support during this journey:
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**1. Learn the basics together.**
New anti-amyloid drugs require regular clinic visits for IV infusions and MRI monitoring to check for side effects like brain swelling[2]. Ask the care team to explain how the treatment works and what to expect at each step. Simple phrases like “This medicine helps clear sticky proteins in the brain” can make it less intimidating.
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**2. Plan around infusion days.**
Infusion appointments take time and may cause temporary fatigue or flu-like symptoms afterward[2]. Offer rides, arrange childcare, or prepare meals on treatment days so your loved one can rest without stress. Keep a shared calendar with appointment reminders and symptom notes.
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**3. Watch for changes—good and bad.**
Slowed decline might look like remembering more names or needing less help with daily tasks over time[3]. Report any improvements *and* concerns (like headaches or confusion) promptly—even small details help doctors adjust care plans effectively[5].
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**4. Combine medications with lifestyle support.**
While these new drugs target disease progression, other medications (like cholinesterase inhibitors) and non-drug strategies remain important:
– **Routine matters:** Keep daily activities predictable to reduce anxiety[4].
– **Stay active:** Short walks or gentle exercises boost mood and cognition[3].
– **Simplify communication:** Use clear sentences and visual cues instead of questions like “What do you want?” which can overwhelm someone with memory loss[5].
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**5. Care for yourself too.**
Caregivers often neglect their own health while managing someone else’s treatment schedule[5]. Accept help from others—even if it’s just having a friend sit with your loved one during an infusion so you can take a break. Local Alzheimer’s associations often offer free caregiver workshops or respite care referrals[3][5].
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New treatments bring hope, but they work best when paired with patience, teamwork, and compassion—for both your loved one *and* yourself as their supporter every step of the way.[1][3][5]
