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

Natasa Standeker

Alma Mater Europaea University 

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4404-0907 (unauthenticated)

Šefik Salkunič

Alma Mater Europaea University, Department of Social Gerontology, Maribor, Slovenia University Clinical Centre Maribor 

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5862-202X (unauthenticated)

Jana Goriup

Alma Mater Europaea University, Department of Social Gerontology, Maribor, Slovenia https://orcid.org/0009-0001-8926-084X (unauthenticated)

Kristijan Jejčič

Alma Mater Europaea University, Department of Social Gerontology, Maribor, Slovenia

Mateja BerčanAlma Mater Europaea University, Department of Social Gerontology, Maribor, Slovenia https://orcid.org/0009-0001-1157-876X (unauthenticated)

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

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.

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

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