On the latest episode of Health Futures: Taking Stock in You, host Bob Roth sat down with Dr. Ganesh Gopalakrishna of Banner Alzheimer’s Institute to discuss the latest advances in Alzheimer’s research, the emotional toll of caregiving, and how new programs are reshaping dementia care.
🎧 For the full episode, CLICK HERE
Breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s Research
At Cypress HomeCare Solutions, we know that science and caregiving must work hand in hand. That is why we were honored to welcome Dr. Gopalakrishna to the show. With nearly two decades of experience in geriatric psychiatry and dementia care, he shared how the field is finally seeing progress after years of setbacks.
For nearly 20 years, no new Alzheimer’s treatments were approved by the FDA. Recently, however, monoclonal antibody medications such as lecanemab and donanemab have offered real hope. While not cures, these drugs can slow disease progression and energize further research.
“Science takes time,” Dr. Gopalakrishna explained. “Even the trials that didn’t succeed taught us what doesn’t work and moved us closer to what does.”
Understanding the Disease
The conversation also explored what actually happens inside the brain during Alzheimer’s. Two proteins, amyloid and tau, accumulate and interfere with communication between brain cells, eventually leading to cell death and brain shrinkage. Genetics, including the well-studied APOE4 gene, play a role in risk, but lifestyle factors such as exercise, diet, and cognitive stimulation remain critically important.
Global research, including groundbreaking studies with families in Medellín, Colombia, has further shaped our understanding by focusing on people genetically certain to develop early-onset Alzheimer’s.
Supporting Families on the Journey
Beyond the lab, Dr. Gopalakrishna emphasized that dementia is a “family illness.” It affects not only the person diagnosed, but also their spouses, children, and caregivers. The stress can be immense, with caregivers facing higher risks of depression and even physical illness.
That’s where support programs become essential. Banner Alzheimer’s Institute provides memory cafés, caregiver groups, and community training initiatives such as Project ECHO to equip primary care providers with dementia expertise.
The CMS Innovation Center’s GUIDE program is another breakthrough. For the first time, Medicare is reimbursing respite and caregiver support services for families facing dementia. This recognition of caregiver needs marks a shift toward truly holistic dementia care.
A Message of Hope
Dr. Gopalakrishna closed with a note of optimism. Blood-based biomarkers are already making early detection possible, and more breakthroughs are on the horizon.
“Exercise, eat well, keep your brain active,” he said. “There is real hope for the future.”
At Cypress HomeCare Solutions, we are proud to collaborate with Banner Alzheimer’s Institute and other leaders to ensure families don’t walk this journey alone.
To learn more about Banner Alzheimer’s Institute, visit BannerAlz.org.
To discover how Cypress supports families across Arizona, contact us at (602) 671-0750 or visit CypressHomeCare.com.
📝 This content is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with professionals regarding your individual needs.
🎧 Catch the full episode of Health Futures: Taking Stock in You at
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