Natalie Morales: Alzheimer's Lessons Learned

Broadcast journalist Natalie Morales is sharing her family's experience with Alzheimer's disease to encourage early intervention. Her mother-in-law, Kay Rhodes, was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's over 25 years ago, at the age of 53. At that time, treatment options were severely limited, and a significant stigma surrounded the disease.

Morales is now partnering with Eli Lilly and Kinsula, an amyloid-targeting therapy, to raise awareness about available treatments. She stresses the importance of early detection, noting that new diagnostic tools like blood and genetic tests can identify the disease sooner. The availability of amyloid-targeting therapies offers hope for those diagnosed early, a stark contrast to the past.

Reflecting on her family's journey, Morales highlights the immense toll Alzheimer's took. Her father-in-law served as the primary caregiver for 10 years, impacting his health and draining their retirement savings. She recalls her mother-in-law’s subtle symptoms like anxiety and word-finding difficulties, which progressed to getting lost and experiencing sundowning.

Morales also shares personal habits she adopted for brain health, including daily exercise and challenging her mind with new activities like horseback riding. She models this proactive approach for her children, emphasizing open conversations about genetic risks and brain health due to their family history.