Advancing Care in Alzheimer’s Disease: Current Treatments and Their Impact on Quality of Life

Abstract

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by memory deficits and cognitive decline. It is currently the most common cause of dementia globally and carries a significant disease burden, given the rising aging population worldwide. Although AD is debilitating for the patient, the complex nature of the disease is also a source of tremendous mental distress for caregivers. Finding, understanding, and evaluating the best treatments can be challenging and overwhelming when coping with a life-changing diagnosis of AD. Although there is currently no definite cure for AD, all the discussed treatments aim to improve a patient's quality of life and attenuate the time spent in disability. This study compiles and discusses the risks, benefits, and efficacy of all currently available treatments for AD, including treatments that target the control of cognitive and non-cognitive symptoms. Additionally, the manuscript discusses investigational therapeutics, including small molecules and immunotherapies in phase 2 or 3 clinical trials, and assesses non-pharmacological interventions that may alleviate disease burden.