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News Brief

May 19, 2025

Many living with dementia want to know what treatment options are available to slow the progress

Four of five Americans surveyed want to know if they face a future with Alzheimer's disease before symptoms arise, according to the latest Alzheimer's Facts and Figures report.

At least 35,000 Nebraskans are living with the form of dementia and want to know what treatment options are available to slow its progress.

Nebraska chapter of the Alzheimer's Association board member, Michele Magner, says it is much easier to determine whether someone could develop the disease thanks to a simple blood test.

"They are willing to take that test. Medication is more accessible to them now than they were in the past. It allows them time to prevent the ongoing impact of a disease process.", says Magner.

The research shows three in five Americans said they would be willing to take a medication to slow the progression of Alzheimer's, even if it came with a risk. The chances of developing Alzheimer's disease are higher if a parent has it.

Magner pointed out the effects of Alzheimer's disease do not stop with the patient because it has a trickle-down effect on Nebraska's unpaid caregivers, usually family members.

"Of our 41,000 reported caregivers in the state of Nebraska, 57.6% are also managing their own chronic health conditions, so it's really important to be thinking about not just the person living with dementia but also the people providing their care.", says Magner.

She adds more than 35,000 Nebraskans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer's disease.