WVU Medicine specialist urges early evaluation for memory concerns

New therapies, innovative diagnostic tools and ongoing research at WVU Medicine are changing the landscape of Alzheimer’s care and creating opportunities to help patients maintain their independence and quality of life longer than ever before.

Joseph Malone, M.D., a neurologist specializing in memory disorders at the WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute (RNI), said recent advances are giving patients and families reasons for optimism, particularly when the disease is detected early.

“The landscape of Alzheimer’s treatment has changed drastically with the advent and rise of these new medicines,” Malone said.

Alzheimer’s disease, the most common cause of dementia worldwide, is caused by the buildup of abnormal proteins in the brain that can damage and ultimately destroy brain cells. While memory loss is often the first symptom, the disease can also affect language, navigation and mood.

As treatment options expand, recognizing potential warning signs has become increasingly important. Frequent repetition, regularly misplacing important items, difficulty finding words, getting lost in familiar places and unexplained anxiety or depression later in life may warrant evaluation by a healthcare provider.

Recent therapies have been shown to slow disease progression, helping some patients maintain their independence and daily routines longer. According to Malone, the greatest benefit is seen when treatment begins during the earliest stages of the disease.

“These medicines help slow down the progression of the disease,” Malone said. “That gives you more time in a milder stage, which means more time being able to do what you want, like babysit, drive, and live your life.”

Researchers are also making progress in diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease earlier and more efficiently. New blood-based tests can help detect biological markers associated with the disease, potentially improving access to screening and evaluation, particularly for patients who may not have easy access to advanced imaging technologies.

At the same time, scientists continue to investigate additional therapies and emerging technologies designed to target Alzheimer’s disease from multiple angles. Clinical trials remain a major focus of that work, with researchers seeking new ways to slow, prevent or eventually eliminate the disease.

While advancements in treatment and diagnosis continue, Malone emphasized that people should not ignore concerns about memory or cognitive changes.

“I can’t stress this enough,” Malone said. “If people are feeling that they’re having problems, it doesn’t hurt to get checked out. Time matters.”

For more information and insights from Malone, listen to the latest episode of Live Healthy West Virginia, “Advances in Alzheimer’s: Memories in the Making,” available on WVU Medicine’s YouTube channel and Spotify.

To learn more about memory disorders, Alzheimer’s care and research at the WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, visit WVUMedicine.org/RNI.