Never heard of it? Neither had I until a few weeks ago.
Why is the identification of a new type of dementia important? Because as doctors determine different kinds of dementia and make more accurate diagnoses, we can better understand what treatments can work and what to expect. In addition, scientists identifying these dementias accurately can make way for new affective treatments.
This year, LATE dementia guidelines were established to help doctors identify this condition. Because it is so new, asking your doctor, “Do you feel this fits the guideline for LATE dementia?” may prompt him or her to look at those guidelines, leading to a more precise diagnosis of the kind of dementia you or a loved one have.
LATE dementia’s full name is Limbic-predominant age-related TDP-43 encephalopathy. It generally moves more slowly than Alzheimer’s dementia and is less severe. In addition, its symptoms emerge at an older age.
There is some bad news: there is currently no treatment for LATE dementia and it can occur along with other dementias. When someone has both Alzheimer’s and LATE, the symptoms can move faster and be more severe than Alzheimer’s alone.
Alzheimer’s dementia involves the build up of amyloid plaques and tau protein while LATE has an accumulation of a protein called TDP-43.
As a result, those with only LATE would not benefit from Alzheimer’s drugs that target the amyloid because there is no amyloid to target in a person with LATE. However, those with both LATE and Alzheimer’s may get some benefit from amyloid targeting medicines. Of course, you should speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of any medication regardless of the diagnosis.
There are doctors out there to help, respite for family members, treatments being researched, and engaging activities and settings which offer promise for those with a dementia diagnosis and their caregivers. And most of all, there is HOPE.
Care Answered can help you navigate through this healthcare system, helping you get the care you need. Contact us by emailing nicole@careanswered.com.
Source: NYT article “A Different Type of Dementia is Changing What’s Known About Cognitive Decline” 11/28/2025