All About Alzheimer's Newsletter- Monday 26th January 2026

Memory Air brings this science backed olfactory enrichment approach to your house in an easy-to-use device that works while you sleep.

Developed in partnership with Professor Emeritus of Neurobiology at the University of California Irvine, Dr Michael Leon is one of the world’s leading neuroscientists.

Memory Air was designed using proven science:

Only available in the USA

Many carers will have heard about new Alzheimer’s drugs like Lecanemab and Donanemab, but understanding what they mean in real life can be hard. Today we share Larry’s story, a real person taking part in research that offers insight into what this treatment can look like.

In 2018, Larry was diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) following an MRI scan. Two years later, in 2020, he joined a clinical trial for Lecanemab, a drug designed to slow cognitive decline. Every two weeks, he receives an IV infusion at the Memory Assessment and Research Centre in Southampton.

When the first phase of the trial ended, the researchers confirmed that Larry had been receiving the actual drug — not a placebo. He has continued with the treatment throughout the trial until the end of this year.

So far, Larry believes the drug has helped to slow the progression of his symptoms. Memory tests taken every six months have remained relatively stable, and he hasn’t experienced side effects. He still enjoys bike rides, socialising with family and friends, and living a full life.

It’s important to know that Lecanemab and Donanemab are not currently available on the NHS because NICE judges that their benefits do not yet justify the cost. But stories like Larry’s help researchers and clinicians learn more and push the conversation forward.

If you’re caring for someone with dementia, staying informed about research developments can help you make decisions with confidence. For support and more updates, please visit our website or contact your local support team.

Every week, we share an honest story from a caregiver — the things most people are too afraid to say out loud.

Thank you for sharing this with me. I know how much it can take to put these experiences into words, and I don’t take that lightly.

What you’re describing is something I’ve seen and heard from many families affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia. Language often changes first — sometimes gradually, sometimes in uneven steps.

Full sentences can turn into fragments, then individual words, and eventually into expressions or gestures. Many carers describe feeling that the person they love is still there, but increasingly difficult to connect with.

Difficulties with everyday tasks, such as following a recipe or using the microwave, are also commonly reported.

These changes are often linked to problems with sequencing, judgement, and processing, which can make previously simple activities unsafe or overwhelming.

For carers, this usually means stepping in quietly and consistently, often before others realise how much support is already being given.

Short-term memory loss can be especially painful because it affects shared moments. Many carers talk about repeating information, revisiting the same conversations, and holding memories on behalf of both people.

This ongoing emotional effort is rarely visible to those outside the situation.

From experience, I know that caring at this stage involves sustained emotional strength. It means staying present for someone whose way of communicating and engaging with the world is changing, while continuing to protect their dignity and sense of self.

I’m really grateful you took the time to describe what life looks like for you now. Voices like yours are essential in helping others understand the reality of caregiving through the everyday details that matter most.

You are not alone in this experience, even though it can often feel that way.

Harvey

If something’s been on your heart lately, let us know. We read every word. Your voice could offer comfort to someone else navigating the same journey.

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