Alzheimer’s research took major steps forward this year, bringing new diagnostic tools, treatment options, and insights into how Americans view cognitive health. The Alzheimer’s Association Rochester & Finger Lakes Region Chapter says 2025 may mark a turning point for families across New York.
Here are the five biggest developments shaping Alzheimer’s care and research right now.
1. Lifestyle Program Shows Measurable Cognitive Gains
A landmark finding from the Alzheimer’s Association’s U.S. POINTER study revealed that structured lifestyle changes can significantly improve cognitive performance in older adults at risk for decline.
Key takeaways:
- Structured programs involving exercise, nutrition, cognitive training, coaching, and peer support outperformed self-guided versions.
- The benefits appeared across diverse populations, showing strong potential for large-scale public health impact.
- The Association plans to expand the “lifestyle recipe” nationwide and launch new tools, including a personal brain health platform and virtual provider training.
With nearly $90 million invested in the study to date, researchers will continue tracking participants for at least four more years.
2. FDA Clears First-Ever Blood Tests for Alzheimer’s
For the first time, the FDA approved two blood tests that can help support Alzheimer’s diagnosis — a breakthrough that could reduce reliance on invasive spinal taps and costly scans.
What was approved:
- Lumipulse G pTau217/β-Amyloid ratio test (May 2025):Supports diagnosis for adults 50+ with cognitive symptoms.
- Elecsys pTau181 test (October 2025):Approved for primary care use in adults 55+ to help rule out Alzheimer’s-related brain changes.
Experts emphasize these tests are not standalone diagnostics, but powerful tools when combined with medical evaluation, imaging, and established guidelines.
3. Survey Shows Americans Want Early Diagnosis — Even With Risks
A 2025 Alzheimer’s Association national survey found overwhelming support for early detection:
- 79% of Americans 45+ want to know if they have Alzheimer’s before symptoms disrupt their lives.
- 91% would take a simple blood biomarker test if offered.
- 58% would accept moderate or high medication risks if it meant slowing disease progression.
“People want answers — and they want them early,” said Elizabeth Edgerly, Ph.D., senior director of Community Programs and Services. “Accessible diagnostic testing is crucial.”
4. FDA Approves Weekly At-Home Alzheimer’s Treatment
Another major step: the FDA approved at-home weekly injections of Leqembi for patients who have completed the initial 18-month IV treatment phase.
Why this matters:
- Reduces travel and treatment burden for families.
- Autoinjector use may improve access in rural or underserved communities.
- Clinical data shows ongoing treatment helps preserve memory and thinking abilities.
The Alzheimer’s Association is urging patients to participate in ALZ-NET, a nationwide program that tracks real-world treatment outcomes to improve care and equity.
5. ALZPro Launches to Support Physicians and Researchers
The Alzheimer’s Association also introduced ALZPro, a comprehensive online platform offering:
- Updated clinical guidelines
- Research summaries and publications
- Training modules
- Care-planning tools
The hub is designed to help dementia specialists deliver evidence-based, person-centered care and stay current with rapidly evolving science.
“This year brought remarkable breakthroughs — from earlier diagnosis to new treatment delivery options,” said Amanda Nobrega, vice president of programs for Upstate New York Chapters. “Our mission is to ensure every community benefits from these advances.”…