For individuals navigating early-stage Alzheimer’s, timely intervention is critical. While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, innovative approaches like infusion therapy offer hope in slowing the progression of symptoms, helping patients maintain quality of life for as long as possible.
At Suite Life Health and Wellness, with locations in Fall River, Stoughton, and Warwick, Rhode Island, we specialize in providing patient-centric infusion therapy tailored to meet individual needs. Our welcoming, state-of-the-art facilities are designed to make each visit as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Keep reading to learn more about how infusion therapy works and whether it’s a suitable treatment pathway for early-stage Alzheimer’s patients.
What Is Early-Stage Alzheimer’s?
Early-stage Alzheimer’s refers to the initial phase of the disease when symptoms are mild but noticeable. During this stage, individuals often remain independent but may experience challenges with memory, thinking, and reasoning.
Common symptoms include:
- Short-term memory loss (e.g., forgetting names or appointments).
- Difficulty planning or problem-solving, such as trouble following a recipe.
- Struggling to find words or mix-ups in language.
- Mood or personality changes, including increased anxiety or irritability.
- Disorientation in familiar settings or situations.
If you or a loved one notices these early signs of dementia, consulting a healthcare provider promptly is crucial. Early intervention can pave the way for treatments like infusion therapy that may help maintain cognitive function longer.
How Infusion Therapy Works and Its Potential for Early-Stage Alzheimer’s
Infusion therapy is an advanced medical approach that delivers medication directly into the bloodstream via an IV. Unlike oral medications, this method bypasses the digestive system, ensuring faster absorption and more consistent results.
How It May Help Alzheimer’s Patients:
For individuals with early-stage Alzheimer’s, certain infusion therapies focus on slowing cognitive decline. These therapies work by targeting and clearing the buildup of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain, a hallmark of the disease. By doing so, they can help preserve memory, reasoning, and other cognitive abilities.
Suite Life offers access to infusion medications in a calm, private setting designed for comfort and continuity of care. Each session is overseen by trained professionals who specialize in neurological disorders.
Clinical Benefits and Current FDA-Approved Infusion Medications
Breakthroughs in medical research have resulted in FDA-approved infusion medications for Alzheimer’s treatment that provide new hope. Here are some of the benefits and medications currently available:
Clinical Benefits:
- Slowed Disease Progression: Infusion medications are specifically designed to target beta-amyloid plaques, slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
- Improved Quality of Life: Patients often experience an extended period where tasks and daily activities remain manageable.
- Minimally Invasive Procedure: Unlike surgical interventions, infusion therapy is non-invasive with a relatively low risk of complications.
FDA-Approved Medications:
- Leqembi (lecanemab): Targets beta-amyloid fibres in the brain, reducing their buildup before they form plaques.
- Kisunla (donanemab): Works on already-formed beta-amyloid plaques, helping the body’s immune system clear them effectively.
These innovations represent significant advancements, shifting Alzheimer’s care from solely managing symptoms to addressing the underlying biology of the disease.
What a Typical Treatment Plan Looks Like
At Suite Life, we work closely with referring physicians and patients to design a personalized treatment plan. Here's what to expect from a typical infusion therapy plan:
- Initial Consultation: A healthcare provider will confirm amyloid plaques through diagnostic tests, like PET scans or spinal fluid analysis, to determine eligibility.
- Customized Schedule: Depending on the medication type, infusion sessions might occur biweekly or monthly. Appointments are scheduled for easy access at Suite Life's offices in Fall River, Stoughton, or Warwick.
- Comfortable Treatment Environment: During each session, patients are seated in spacious, private treatment rooms outfitted with amenities to make the process as relaxed as possible.
- Continuous Monitoring: Our knowledgeable team monitors patients' progress and adjusts treatment protocols as needed to optimize outcomes and address side effects.
For patients participating in clinical trials, Suite Life's partnership with leading researchers ensures quick regulatory and trial start-up processes, delivering access to novel therapies.
Key Questions to Ask Your Doctor Before Starting Therapy
If you’re considering infusion therapy, it's essential to have all the facts. Here are some questions to guide conversations with your doctor:
- Am I eligible for infusion therapy based on my current diagnosis?
- What improvements can I realistically expect during treatment?
- Are there potential side effects, and how will they be managed?
- How often will I need infusion sessions, and how long does each session last?
At Suite Life, our experienced clinical team collaborates with you and your referring physician to provide thorough answers and an individualized care plan.
Bringing Hope to Alzheimer’s Treatment
Alzheimer’s disease challenges millions of families, but treatments like infusion therapy offer renewed hope. By slowing symptom progression, patients can maintain their independence and quality of life for as long as possible. With experienced providers dedicated to innovative care,
Suite Life ensures you or your loved one receives expert support in a comfortable environment.
Take the first step today. Book an appointment or call us at (508) 567- 5666 to discuss your treatment options. Together, we can create a care plan that works for you or your loved one.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How does infusion therapy differ from oral medications for Alzheimer’s treatment?
Infusion therapy delivers medications directly into the bloodstream, allowing for faster and more consistent absorption, whereas oral medications may have delayed effects.
Are there any side effects of Alzheimer's infusion drugs?
Side effects may include mild headaches, nausea, or reactions at the IV site. Our clinical team at Suite Life carefully monitors patients to ensure their comfort and safety.
What is the success rate of infusion therapy for early-stage Alzheimer’s?
Infusion therapy has shown promise in slowing the progression of early-stage Alzheimer’s symptoms. While not a cure, it helps patients maintain cognitive function longer.
What should I bring to my first infusion session?
We recommend bringing a list of current medications, a valid ID, and something to keep you entertained, such as a book or tablet.
