Choosing not to pursue disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) is a common and valid decision for many individuals and families. This choice may reflect personal values, medical considerations, tolerance for risk, or a desire to focus on the quality of daily life rather than intensive medical treatment. It's important to note that this decision does not mean stopping care altogether.

What This Decision Means

Opting out of DMTs shifts the focus of care from targeting disease biology to enhancing comfort, function, safety, and long-term planning. Care remains active, intentional, and guided by your clinical team.

What Care Focuses On Instead

Medical care continues with treatments targeting symptoms that impact daily life, such as memory difficulties, mood changes, sleep problems, anxiety, or behavioral symptoms, as needed. These treatments do not alter the underlying disease but can improve comfort and day-to-day functioning.

Non-medication strategies are equally important. Structured routines, simplified environments, and practical supports can alleviate stress and confusion, helping to preserve independence.

Supporting Brain Health at Every Stage

There are always meaningful areas we can support. Paying attention to sleep, physical activity, nutrition, social connection, and mental engagement aids in maintaining resilience and quality of life, regardless of diagnosis or stage.

Ongoing medical care also focuses on optimizing overall health, addressing factors such as blood pressure, heart health, hearing and vision, mood, and sleep. These can significantly influence cognitive stability and well-being.

Ongoing Monitoring and Reassessment

Choosing not to pursue DMTs does not mean that follow-up stops. Regular visits allow your care team to monitor changes, address new symptoms, reassess safety, and adjust supports over time. Decisions can always be revisited as circumstances, goals, or treatment options change.

Planning and Support

This approach emphasizes proactive planning. Discussions may include advance directives, future care needs, financial and legal planning, and caregiver support. Early planning reduces uncertainty and helps families feel more prepared.

Caregiver education is a central part of care. Understanding what to expect and how to respond to changes can reduce stress and enhance quality of life for everyone involved.

Key Takeaway

Choosing not to pursue disease-modifying therapy is not “doing nothing.” It is a thoughtful decision to focus care on comfort, function, safety, and what matters most to you. Your care team remains your partner, supporting you and your family over time with guidance, monitoring, and compassionate care.