CT Group Aims to Expand Access to Alzheimer’s Treatment

During Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month, experts are seeking better access to Alzheimer's treatment drugs.

In Connecticut, 80,000 people age 65 and older live with this illness, and a report from the Alzheimer's Association found this number is expected to grow to 91,000 by 2025.

While there is no cure for Alzheimer's, the Food and Drug Administration has approved new drugs to slow its progression.

Kristen Cusato, director of communications for the Connecticut chapter of the Alzheimer's Association, said there are still hurdles for people who need them.

"CMS, the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare, said we will not cover this drug or any other drugs of this class," Cusato pointed out. "We at the Alzheimer's Association typically are pretty quiet, but we are getting loud about this and holding rallies, and really demanding that CMS change their mind."

She added medications offering families hope should not cost almost $30,000, and should be available to people who need them. In the hopes of changing some minds, the Connecticut chapter is holding a rally for state access on June 21 at 6 p.m.

Beyond Alzheimer's treatment drugs, people can also change their lifestyles to reduce chances of getting Alzheimer's. Cusato described some things people can do now to remain sharp and prevent Alzheimer's from afflicting them.

"Ways to love your brain include physical exercise," Cusato outlined. "Include making sure your blood sugar and blood pressure is in check, learning new things, increasing your education, picking up an instrument, or playing some games, changing up the different brain games."

Other ways to keep your brain healthy include reducing or eliminating processed foods, and drinking alcohol in moderation.

This story written and reported by Edwin J. Viera of the Connecticut News Service, a statewide news service for Connecticut.