Socio-Gerontological Perspectives on Disease-Modifying Alzheimer’s Therapies (Lecanemab): A Delphi Study in Central Europe

Natasa Standeker; Šefik Salkunič; Jana Goriup; Kristijan Jejčič; Mateja Berčan

doi:10.33700/jhrs.5.1.222

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Open Access

Authors

Natasa Standeker Alma Mater Europaea University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4404-0907
Šefik Salkunič Alma Mater Europaea University, Department of Social Gerontology, Maribor, Slovenia https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5862-202X
Jana Goriup Alma Mater Europaea University, Department of Social Gerontology, Maribor, Slovenia https://orcid.org/0009-0001-8926-084X
Kristijan Jejčič Alma Mater Europaea University, Department of Social Gerontology, Maribor, Slovenia
Mateja Berčan Alma Mater Europaea University, Department of Social Gerontology, Maribor, Slovenia https://orcid.org/0009-0001-1157-876X

https://doi.org/10.33700/jhrs.5.1.222

Keywords:

Alzheimer’s disease, Lecanemab, Delphi method, Long-term care, Health equity, Social gerontology

Abstract

Introduction: This study examines experts forecasts on societal, ethical, and structural challenges of DMT introduction in Austria, Slovenia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina—countries differing in care models and cultural attitudes toward dementia.

Aim: The aim of this study was to explore experts perspectives on the societal, ethical, and systemic implications of introducing disease-modifying Alzheimer’s therapies in Central European care contexts.

Methods: A three-round Delphi study engaged 10 multidisciplinary experts . The panel included three full professors (PhD) specialising in sociology, law and psychology, three medical doctors (MD) with specialisations in psychiatry, gerontology and geriatrics, two associate professors (PhD) in social gerontology, and one professor of public health (PhD).

Results: Strong consensus emerged on six priorities: (1) public and professional awareness/education (x̄=9.71), (2) tailored long-term care models (x̄=9.71), (3) faster drug access (x̄=9.43), (4) open dialogue to reduce stigma (x̄=8.57), (5) integrating cultural beliefs and funding (x̄=8.29), and (6) accessibility despite pricing (x̄=8.29).

Conclusion: Despite systemic disparities, experts across contexts identified shared challenges. Successful DMT integration demands culturally sensitive destigmatization, professional training, and community-based LTC adaptation.

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