Last Updated: March 11, 2019
Developed in the 1960s and 1970s to treat Alzheimer&#8217;s disease, the Validation Method is a holistic therapy that focuses on empathy and provides a means for people with the disease to communicate. Its creator, Naomi Feil, offers workshops that teach invaluable techniques for connecting with loved ones with Alzheimer&#8217;s, enhancing their dignity and bringing them peace. <img src="https://www.alzheimers.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Empathy-for-Alzheimers-The-Validation-Method-300x158.jpg" alt="Empathy for Alzheimer&#039;s: The Validation Method" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68237" />
Learn more about using the Validation Method for Alzheimer&#8217;s.
<h2>How the Validation Method Began</h2>
Naomi Feil, a social worker for the elderly who began her career in the 1960s, developed the Validation Method after she grew dissatisfied with common practices in dealing with seniors with Alzheimer&#8217;s. So she devised her own method and published a book on it, called &#8220;<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Validation-Feil-Method-Disoriented-Old-Old/dp/1878169009" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Validation: The Feil Method</a>,&#8221; in 1982.
Another book, &#8220;<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Validation-Breakthrough-Techniques-Communicating-Alzheimers/dp/1932529934" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Validation Breakthrough</a>,&#8221; followed in 1993. In addition to workshops offered through her Validation Training Institute, Feil and her husband have produced several films and videos about aging and the therapy.
<blockquote>Validation theory emphasizes empathy and listening. It views people with Alzheimer&#8217;s as unique and worthwhile and as being in the final stages of life.</blockquote>
They&#8217;re trying to resolve unfinished business so they can die in peace. The caregiver&#8217;s job is to offer these individuals a means for expression, verbally or nonverbally.
As <a title="ALZWell Caregiver Support" href="http://www.alzwell.com/validation.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">ALZWellCaregiverSuppor</a>t explains, validation is about the older person&#8217;s needs. Instead of ignoring or stopping what might be viewed as irrational or illogical behavior, validation offers alternatives. It focuses on the objective here and now and doesn&#8217;t ask why.
<h2>The Validation Method in Practice</h2>
Feil offers examples of validation in practice:
<h3>1. The caregiver.</h3>
An example poses an adult child helping a mother who&#8217;s been diagnosed with Alzheimer&#8217;s. The mother is convinced someone is throwing away her most precious belongings, including photo albums and scrapbooks. But the mother&#8217;s actually hiding these things.
Instead of arguing with the mother, an adult child could rephrase the situation, helping his or her mother reminisce about her youth in a positive light: &#8220;Your wedding ring is gone. You think I&#8217;ve stolen it?,&#8221; &#8220;It was a beautiful ring,&#8221; &#8220;How did you and Dad meet?&#8221;
<h3>2. The physician.</h3>
In one scenario, she describes how a physician might respond to an elderly woman who&#8217;s convinced he&#8217;s her husband. She asks him to take her home.
Rather than prescribing medication to reduce anxiety and telling her she&#8217;s wrong, the Validation Method recommends that the physician match her emotions with empathic statements. These include: &#8220;You miss him,&#8221; &#8220;You were close,&#8221; &#8220;You want to be back in your house. What would you do there?&#8221;
<h2>Who Uses the Validation Method?</h2>
Caregivers, family members, home health aides, nurses, physicians and social workers, to name a few, can benefit from learning validation techniques. Although practitioners warn that it takes time to see changes in behavior, permanent positive changes can result from validation.
<blockquote>Depending on the individual, this may mean less crying, pacing or withdrawal; more nonverbal and verbal communication; and a stronger sense of self-worth.</blockquote>
Through empathy and respect, validation practitioners help people with Alzheimer&#8217;s feel listened to and supported. They can regain the dignity their disease has stolen, and ideally, feel a greater sense of peace in their final stage of life.
Do you have experience with using the Validation Method for Alzheimer&#8217;s? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories in the comments below.
Related Articles:
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<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/4-6-15-behavioral-therapy-alzheimers/">Effects of Behavioral Therapy on Alzheimer&#8217;s</a></li>
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Empathy for Alzheimer's: The Validation Method

Validation Method for Alzheimer's Patients

Last Updated: March 11, 2019 Developed in the 1960s and 1970s to treat Alzheimer’s disease, the Validation Method is a holistic therapy that focuses on empathy and provides a means for people with the disease to communicate. Its creator, Naomi Feil, offers workshops that teach invaluable techniques for connecting with loved ones with Alzheimer’s, enhancing their dignity […]

Alzheimer’s can take so much away from you and your loved ones. Don’t forget to look at what you can do to slow the decline that happens with the disease. Physical therapy is one approach that has been shown to improve symptoms of Alzheimer&#8217;s, as well as slow the progression of the disease. <img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/4-Ways-Physical-Therapy-Slows-the-Symptoms-of-Alzheimers-300x158.jpg" alt="4 Ways Physical Therapy Slows the Symptoms of Alzheimer&#039;s" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67980" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/4-Ways-Physical-Therapy-Slows-the-Symptoms-of-Alzheimers-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/4-Ways-Physical-Therapy-Slows-the-Symptoms-of-Alzheimers-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/4-Ways-Physical-Therapy-Slows-the-Symptoms-of-Alzheimers.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
A physical therapist is an expert in movement and can help set up an exercise program that keeps your parent or senior loved one moving. Research continues to show that physical activity is one of the strongest ways to improve your brain health. Read more about how physical therapy can help slow the symptoms of Alzheimer&#8217;s.
<h2>How Physical Therapy Slows the Symptoms of Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
Regular physical activity throughout the stages of Alzheimer&#8217;s has been shown to improve:
<ul>
<li>Balance</li>
<li>Blood flow to the brain</li>
<li>Endurance</li>
<li>Flexibility</li>
<li>Muscle strength</li>
</ul>
Research has shown that physical therapy can also slow the symptoms of Alzheimer’s in these four ways:
<h3>1. Decreases aggression and improves mood.</h3>
Aggression and depression can be common traits throughout the progression of Alzheimer’s. A physical therapist will help your parent or senior loved one to be active. Regular activity has been repeatedly <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2518041/" target="_blank" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2518041/" rel="noopener noreferrer">shown to improve mood and reduce aggression</a>.
One <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2134914/" target="_blank" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2134914/" rel="noopener noreferrer">study found that an hour of therapy each week for 12 weeks drastically reduced depression</a>. The therapy focused on balance, endurance, flexibility and strength training.
Physical therapy also helps to stabilize aggression through regular exercise. The therapist assists your loved one with active movement and stretches that releases endorphins that soothe the brain. A <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2518041/#R8" target="_blank" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2518041/#R8" rel="noopener noreferrer">study</a> found that people with Alzheimer’s who regularly participated in physical therapy over a 24-month period had fewer hospitalizations related to behavioral problems.
<h3>2. Increases mobility and strength.</h3>
Alzheimer’s disease often affects balance and can lead to a high risk for falls. Regular physical therapy helps to keep bones and muscles strong as coordination declines.
You might notice that although your loved one is able to walk that they have an unsteady step. The physical therapist will work with your loved one to build muscle memory to help with preventing falls. The muscles continue to know how to respond even when the brain is not able to register unstable surfaces.
An added bonus of <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2518041/#R8" target="_blank" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2518041/#R8" rel="noopener noreferrer">regular physical therapy is improved sleep</a>. One study matched participants with therapists who assisted them to walk for 30 continuous minutes. After 6 months it was found that the participants were sleeping for an extra 36 minutes and waking less at night.
<h3>3. Maintain independence through activities of daily living (ADLs).</h3>
Being able to take care of yourself is an important way to be independent. Daily activities like bathing, dressing, eating and toileting can become difficult with Alzheimer’s. A physical therapist will provide opportunities to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-occupational-therapy-helps-with-alzheimers/">practice and strengthen the ability to keep doing the daily activities</a>.
A physical therapist can also help family members set up a safe environment for the person with Alzheimer’s. It is a typical goal to be able to maintain the loved one’s function and independence as long as possible.
Physical therapy can make the difference between getting up off the toilet or not.
<h3>4. Slows the loss of memory.</h3>
Loss of memory is a great source of frustration for the person with Alzheimer’s and their loved ones. Physical therapy involves regular physical activity that improves the flood of blood to the brain.
A research study found that 40 minutes of physical activity, four times a week over one year lead to growth in the hippocampus. The hippocampus is the part of the brain responsible for memory. There was also shown to be increases in both the gray and white matter of the brain. Damage to the gray and white matter is a common symptom of Alzheimer’s.
<blockquote>A physical therapist can help you to find the activities that your loved one previously enjoyed and help to adapt the activity to what your loved one can do now. These activities can keep your loved one at home and able to interact longer.</blockquote>
Jan Bays, a physical therapist, is quoted on the <a href="http://www.apta.org/PTinMotion/2018/3/Feature/Dementia/" target="_blank" data-cke-saved-href="http://www.apta.org/PTinMotion/2018/3/Feature/Dementia/" rel="noopener noreferrer">American Physical Therapist Association</a> website as saying that there are three things you need to know about Alzheimer&#8217;s and physical therapy.
<ul>
<li>People with dementia will benefit from therapy</li>
<li>Therapy is often covered by Medicare</li>
<li>You will want to find a therapist that <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/habilitation-therapy-for-alzheimers/">understands people with Alzheimer&#8217;s and their caregivers</a></li>
</ul>
A skilled therapist can use techniques that are both simple to understand and unique. Alzheimer’s will steal much from you and your loved one, but there are therapies that can help and make each day easier to handle.
<blockquote>A physical therapist can be part of your team and help to slow down the symptoms of Alzheimer’s so that you can better enjoy each day you have.</blockquote>
Have you, a parent or senior loved one found improvement using physical therapy to slow the symptoms of Alzheimer&#8217;s? We’d like to hear your stories in the comments below.
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<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/habilitation-therapy-for-alzheimers/">Habilitation Therapy for Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-occupational-therapy-helps-with-alzheimers/">How Occupational Therapy Helps With Alzheimer’s</a></li>
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4 Ways Physical Therapy Slows the Symptoms of Alzheimer's

Alzheimer’s can take so much away from you and your loved ones. Don’t forget to look at what you can do to slow the decline that happens with the disease. Physical therapy is one approach that has been shown to improve symptoms of Alzheimer’s, as well as slow the progression of the disease. A physical therapist […]

One of the biggest challenges with caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease is managing day to day activities as the disease progresses. That’s where an occupational therapist can be an immense source of help.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Occupational-Therapy-Helps-With-Alzheimers-300x158.jpg" alt="How Occupational Therapy Helps With Alzheimer&#039;s" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68325" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Occupational-Therapy-Helps-With-Alzheimers-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Occupational-Therapy-Helps-With-Alzheimers-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Occupational-Therapy-Helps-With-Alzheimers.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Occupational therapists focus on working with you and your family to cope with the changes that the disease brings and make life as full as possible. Read more about how occupational therapy can help your loved one with Alzheimer&#8217;s.
<h2>The Role of an Occupational Therapist</h2>
The <a href="https://www.aota.org/Conference-Events/OTMonth/what-is-OT.aspx" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.aota.org/Conference-Events/OTMonth/what-is-OT.aspx">American Occupational Therapy Association</a> defines an occupational therapist (OT) as a professional that:
<ul>
<li>Enables people to live life to its fullest</li>
<li>Helps people to do the things they need and want to do</li>
<li>Provides therapy for the activities of daily living (ADLs)</li>
</ul>
ADLs can include:
<ul>
<li>Bathing</li>
<li>Cleaning</li>
<li>Communicating</li>
<li>Dressing</li>
<li>Eating</li>
<li>Hygiene</li>
<li>Making food</li>
<li>Managing your finances</li>
<li>Moving</li>
<li>Sleeping</li>
<li>Toileting</li>
<li>Transportation</li>
</ul>
An OT works to set up a living environment, so a parent or senior loved one can function better. They also help with adjusting ADLs to make them easier for both you and your loved one.
<h2>3 Ways Occupational Therapy Can Help People With Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
Alzheimer’s involves a continual loss of cognitive function resulting from damage to the brain, which can wreak havoc on your and a parent&#8217;s or senior loved one&#8217;s day to day activities. That is where an OT can help.
OTs can <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-prevention-tools/">make life as full as possible for your loved one</a> by:
<h3>1. Improving function and safety.</h3>
Research has found that <a href="http://journalofdementiacare.com/occupational-therapy-and-falls-prevention-for-people-with-dementia/" data-cke-saved-href="http://journalofdementiacare.com/occupational-therapy-and-falls-prevention-for-people-with-dementia/">occupational therapy is key to increasing the safety of people</a> with Alzheimer&#8217;s.
Over 70% of people with the disease will have a fall that leads to:
<ul>
<li>Having to move out of their home</li>
<li>Hospitalization</li>
<li>Not being able to take care of themselves</li>
<li>Quicker decline</li>
</ul>
OTs will work with the family members and the person with the disease to assess the home environment and home safety. An OT makes recommendations for what needs to change to keep the person safe as well as what equipment can be used for daily activities to reduce the chance of injury. OTs also provide guidance on how to make daily activities easier.
An OT may recommend routine exercises that help to maintain mobility as well as to build up:
<ul>
<li>Endurance</li>
<li>Range of motion</li>
<li>Strength</li>
</ul>
This helps to prolong your loved one’s independence.
<h3>2. Promoting relationships and social participation.</h3>
Alzheimer’s is characterized by behaviors and a loss of communication that is often hard on relationships.
An OT will look at how problem behaviors are affecting the relationships and social interactions of the person with the disease. The OT can help you look at <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-01-23/sensory-stimulation-alzheimers-patients/">what appears to trigger these behaviors</a> and what are possible solutions.
OTs can provide help with:
<ul>
<li>Frequent outbursts</li>
<li>How to respond to the underlying emotion</li>
<li>Trouble communicating</li>
</ul>
Your loved one may also benefit from opportunities to do tasks that are fulfilling. An OT can help you to find and set up familiar and simple tasks such as laundry folding, simple puzzles and sorting objects.
<h3>3. Providing education and support to Alzheimer&#8217;s caregivers.</h3>
Occupational therapy helps your loved one by giving you the education and support you need. An OT can help you set up routines that make taking care of your loved one easier. An effective routine can help with making sure that your <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/habilitation-therapy-for-alzheimers/">loved one is drinking and eating enough, decreasing problem behaviors and taking medications</a> at the right time.
You might benefit from learning techniques that make it easier to assist your loved one with daily activities. An OT can give you guidance on how to:
<ul>
<li>Break down tasks to be more manageable</li>
<li>Provide instructions that are easy to understand</li>
<li>Reduce distractions</li>
<li>Use visual cues</li>
</ul>
The role of the family in caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can be constant and overwhelming. Occupational therapy focuses on relieving the caregiving burden by promoting independence.
<blockquote>A <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17114212" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17114212">study</a> recently found that 10 sessions of occupational therapy over five weeks significantly improved motor functioning and slowed the loss of independence in daily activities. Caregivers reported that their loved one’s daily functioning was better even up to three months after the therapy ended.</blockquote>
Occupational therapy gives you and your parent or senior loved one support so that you don’t have to cope alone. Instead, you can rely on the help of an OT to help your loved one continue to enjoy and participate in life.
Do you have day-to-day challenges with your loved one with Alzheimer&#8217;s? Have you had help from an occupational therapist? We’d like to hear your stories in the comments below.
Related Articles:
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<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-prevention-tools/">Alzheimer’s Prevention Tools</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/habilitation-therapy-for-alzheimers/">Habilitation Therapy for Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-01-23/sensory-stimulation-alzheimers-patients/">How Sensory Stimulation Can Help Alzheimer’s</a></li>
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How Occupational Therapy Helps With Alzheimer's

One of the biggest challenges with caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease is managing day to day activities as the disease progresses. That’s where an occupational therapist can be an immense source of help. Occupational therapists focus on working with you and your family to cope with the changes that the disease brings and make […]

Delivering personalized medicine that is customized to each person’s unique physiology has been a goal of medical professionals for decades. Now, Alzheimer&#8217;s disease researchers have developed a <a href="https://www.futurity.org/brain-fingerprint-system-alzheimers-1809602/" target="_blank" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.futurity.org/brain-fingerprint-system-alzheimers-1809602/" rel="noopener noreferrer">personalized Therapeutic Intervention Fingerprint (pTIF)</a> that can predict the effectiveness of targeting biological factors like beta-amyloid, inflammation and tau deposition) to control the disease in each individual person.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Personalized-Treatments-Could-Be-the-Key-to-Alzheimers-300x158.jpg" alt="How Personalized Treatments Could Be the Key to Alzheimer’s" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68326" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Personalized-Treatments-Could-Be-the-Key-to-Alzheimers-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Personalized-Treatments-Could-Be-the-Key-to-Alzheimers-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Personalized-Treatments-Could-Be-the-Key-to-Alzheimers.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about this study and why when it comes to Alzheimer’s, a personalized approach and <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/scientists-personalizing-alzheimers-treatment/">personalized treatments may be best</a>.
<h2>Applying Individual Genetics and Personalized Treatments to Alzheimer’s</h2>
A new study, published in the journal <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1053811918305354?via%3Dihub" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1053811918305354?via%3Dihub">Neuroimage</a>, evaluated the effectiveness of targeting specific biological factors for controlling the progression of Alzheimer’s.
The study, led by <a href="https://www.mcgill.ca/neuro/research/researchers/yasser-iturria-medina" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Yasser Iturria-Medina</a>, assistant professor in the Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery at McGill University, researchers at the Montreal Neurological Institutes and the Ludmer Centre for Neuroinformatics and Mental Health, evaluated data from 331 people. Some participants had Alzheimer’s and others were healthy. Using MRI and PET scans, the research team categorized participants into pTIF subtypes.
The researchers were then able to see that patients with the same pTIF subtypes has similar gene expression. Because current drugs that control the progression of the disease modify brain properties and gene expression simultaneously, drugs tailored to certain pTIF subtypes would be a more effective treatment than drugs that treat all people universally.
<blockquote>“In keeping with the tenets of personalized medicine [and personalized treatments], the introduced framework could lead to more effective medical care, decreased undesired secondary effects and substantial reduction of pharmaceutical/clinical costs associated with clinical trials, thereby accelerating the creation-evaluation cycle of new therapeutic agents,” says Iturria-Medina.</blockquote>
The first study to determine a direct link between brain functions and estimated therapeutic responses, it will hopefully allow drugs to be designed for a person’s unique gene expression, improving the effectiveness and even potentially reducing the cost of clinical trials.
“Our <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-prevention-tools/">future work</a> will focus on applying the pTIF to other neurological disorders, extensively validating it, and importantly, making the resulting analytic tools available to the international community, via open-access platforms,” Iturria-Medina says.
What do you think about pTIF being used as an Alzheimer’s treatment? Would you be willing to undergo personalized treatments for Alzheimer&#8217;s? We’d like to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
Related Articles:
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<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-prevention-tools/">Alzheimer’s Prevention Tools</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/scientists-personalizing-alzheimers-treatment/">How Scientists Are Personalizing Alzheimer’s Treatment</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/new-diagnostic-and-treatment-options-for-alzheimers/">New Diagnostic and Treatment Options for Alzheimer’s</a></li>
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How Personalized Treatments Could Be the Key to Alzheimer’s

Delivering personalized medicine that is customized to each person’s unique physiology has been a goal of medical professionals for decades. Now, Alzheimer’s disease researchers have developed a personalized Therapeutic Intervention Fingerprint (pTIF) that can predict the effectiveness of targeting biological factors like beta-amyloid, inflammation and tau deposition) to control the disease in each individual person. […]

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been used for decades to treat neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. However, until now, every patient has received the same treatment. Now, researchers have developed a new approach to DBS treatments that could incorporate each individual’s brain activity. <img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Scientists-Are-Personalizing-Alzheimers-Treatment-300x158.jpg" alt="How Scientists Are Personalizing Alzheimer&#039;s Treatment" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68328" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Scientists-Are-Personalizing-Alzheimers-Treatment-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Scientists-Are-Personalizing-Alzheimers-Treatment-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Scientists-Are-Personalizing-Alzheimers-Treatment.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about the effects of DBS on brain health and how a targeted approach may be a more effective <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/new-diagnostic-and-treatment-options-for-alzheimers/">Alzheimer&#8217;s treatment method</a>.
<h2>Deep Brain Stimulation</h2>
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) sends electronic pulses through a brain with Alzheimer’s and has been shown to <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health-news/scientists-looking-at-brain-stimulation-as-a-possible-treatment-for-alzheimers#1" target="_blank" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.healthline.com/health-news/scientists-looking-at-brain-stimulation-as-a-possible-treatment-for-alzheimers#1" rel="noopener noreferrer">promote healthy activity in neural circuits</a> ravaged by the disease. However, all patients currently receive the same DBS treatment with the same protocols, which can lead to different outcomes due to individual variations in brain signaling.
<a href="https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/neurological-institute/researchers/douglas-scharre-md" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Dr. Doug Sharre</a>, director of Division of Cognitive Neurology at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, said, “Deep brain stimulation implants have been used for over 30 years, mostly to treat the tremors of Parkinson’s disease patients.”
One study published in the <a href="https://www.newswise.com/articles/view/696293/?sc=mwhr&amp;xy=10020971" target="_blank" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.newswise.com/articles/view/696293/?sc=mwhr&amp;xy=10020971" rel="noopener noreferrer">Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease</a> found that participants over the age of 65 who had Alzheimer’s and participated in DBS therapy had a slower progression of the disease than those who did not. <a href="https://www.uhnresearch.ca/researcher/andres-m-lozano" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Dr. Andres Lozano</a>, neurosurgeon and the principal investigator of the study said:
<blockquote>“We are encouraged by these findings as they continue to help us identify who will benefit most from DBS [as an Alzheimer&#8217;s treatment] and learn more about this illness. With so few treatments available and the incidence of Alzheimer&#8217;s only expected to increase, we really need to fully explore all treatments that seem to be of benefit to patients.”</blockquote>
<h2>Using Deep Brain Stimulation to Personalize Alzheimer&#8217;s Treatment</h2>
Using DBS to treat neurodegenerative conditions is nothing new, but using it with a more targeted approach may be a game changer for people with Alzheimer’s. Lazaro Sanchez-Rodriguez from the University of Calgary, Canada, <a href="https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/05/180524141739.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">presented a new study in PLOS Computational Biology</a> that investigated the possibility of personalized brain stimulation. Building a computational tool that took brain signaling measurements and MRI scans, the machine calculated optimal brain stimulation signals.
Their approach was based on a computational strategy called the &#8220;state-dependent Riccati equation control (SDRE)&#8221; to identify specific <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-13/alzheimers-brain-stages/">regions of the brain that would not benefit</a> from DBS. They found that certain parts of the brain, the basal ganglia structures and limbic system, were often powerful targets.
<blockquote>&#8220;With our new framework, we are getting closer to erasing the knowledge gap between application and theory in brain stimulation,&#8221; Sanchez-Rodriguez says. &#8220;I think we will soon see a boom in the application of our framework and similar tools to study other diseases involving impaired brain activity, such as epilepsy and Parkinson&#8217;s.&#8221;</blockquote>
The tool will need to be refined and tested in animals before beginning clinical trials. As successful as the therapy has been in trials, DBS has its limitations, which include being costly and invasive. More research is also needed to fully understand how and why DBS acts as <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-prevention-tools/">an Alzheimer&#8217;s treatment</a>.
What do you think about using DBS as an Alzheimer&#8217;s treatment? Would you be willing to undergo this type of treatment? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories in the comments below.
Related Articles:
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<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-prevention-tools/">Alzheimer’s Prevention Tools</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/new-diagnostic-and-treatment-options-for-alzheimers/">New Diagnostic and Treatment Options for Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-13/alzheimers-brain-stages/">What Does Alzheimer’s Do to the Brain?</a></li>
</ul>

How Scientists Are Personalizing Alzheimer's Treatment

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been used for decades to treat neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. However, until now, every patient has received the same treatment. Now, researchers have developed a new approach to DBS treatments that could incorporate each individual’s brain activity. Learn more about the effects of DBS on brain health […]

Last Updated: September 17, 2018
Research continues to show the impact that positive lifestyle changes can have on brain health, so the <a href="http://www.alz.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Alzheimer&#8217;s Association</a> recently compiled simple steps to follow to prevent cognitive decline and reduce the risk of dementia. <img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Lifestyle-Changes-Can-Help-Reduce-the-Risk-of-Dementia-300x158.jpg" alt="How Lifestyle Changes Can Help Reduce the Risk of Dementia" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68322" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Lifestyle-Changes-Can-Help-Reduce-the-Risk-of-Dementia-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Lifestyle-Changes-Can-Help-Reduce-the-Risk-of-Dementia-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Lifestyle-Changes-Can-Help-Reduce-the-Risk-of-Dementia.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about these steps and how they can help maintain, and in some cases improve, brain health.
<h2>Tips to Reduce the Risk of Dementia</h2>
A recent study published in Alzheimer&#8217;s and Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer&#8217;s Association concluded that people can <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/1-1-15-resolutions-reduce-dementia-2015">reduce their risk of cognitive decline and dementia</a> by making positive lifestyle changes.
As a result of the study, the Alzheimer&#8217;s Association published &#8220;<a href="http://www.alz.org/news_and_events_lifestyle_changes_help_reduce_risk.asp" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">10 Ways to Love Your Brain</a>,&#8221; which highlights tips to help reduce the risk of Alzheimer&#8217;s disease and related dementias.
The Alzheimer&#8217;s Association&#8217;s tips to help prevent dementia are easy to follow and are listed below:
<h3>1. Avoid brain injury.</h3>
Wear a helmet when riding a bike or playing contact sports, a seatbelt in the car and work to prevent falls.
<h3>2. Challenge yourself.</h3>
Challenging your mind has long and short-term benefits for your brain and can include anything from doing a puzzle to painting or playing a card game.
<h3>3. Eat a balanced and healthy diet.</h3>
Eating green, leafy vegetables and following specific diets, like the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/4-8-15-mind-diet-alzheimers-prevention/" target="_self" rel="noopener noreferrer">MIND diet</a> have been shown to help reduce the risk of dementia.
<h3>4. Get quality sleep.</h3>
People with sleep disorders or those who do not get enough sleep have an increased risk of developing Alzheimer&#8217;s and related dementias.
<h3>5. Maintain good cardiovascular health.</h3>
Avoid diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity.
<h3>6. Participate in formal education, in any stage of life.</h3>
Taking a class at a local college or community center can help reduce the risk of dementia.
<h3>7. Quit smoking.</h3>
Studies have shown that quitting smoking can reduce the risk of dementia to the same as those who have not smoked. It&#8217;s not too late to quit!
<h3>8. Schedule time for cardiovascular exercise.</h3>
Cardiovascular exercise, like running or swimming, increases blood flow to the brain and raises your heartrate.
<h3>9. Stay socially engaged.</h3>
Stay involved in daily life with friends and social activities that are important to you.
<h3>10. Treat depression.</h3>
Those with a history of anxiety and depression have an increased risk of dementia. Talk to a professional and take the recommended medication, if necessary.
<h2>Ways to Make Lifestyle Changes for a Healthy Brain</h2>
The Alzheimer&#8217;s Association says that while these tips can help prevent cognitive decline, there is no cure or treatment for Alzheimer&#8217;s and related dementias.
In fact, Alzheimer&#8217;s is the only cause of death in the top 10 life-threatening conditions in the U.S. that <a href="https://www.nia.nih.gov/alzheimers/publication/alzheimers-disease-fact-sheet" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">cannot be definitively prevented or even slowed</a>.
Angela Geiger, chief strategy officer for the Alzheimer&#8217;s Association noted:
<blockquote>&#8220;The research on cognitive decline is still evolving. But there are actions people can take. Certain healthy behaviors known to combat cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes may also reduce the risk of cognitive decline. These include staying mentally active, engaging in regular physical activity and eating a heart-healthy diet that benefits your body and your brain. There is also some evidence people may benefit from staying socially engaged with friends, family and the community.&#8221;</blockquote>
Given the growing body of evidence that positive lifestyle choices can have a positive impact on brain health, the Alzheimer&#8217;s Association has launched a new health education program called &#8220;<a href="http://www.alz.org/illinois/in_my_community_64890.asp" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Healthy Habits for a Healthier You</a>.&#8221; The program is available at several local chapters and will educate people on healthy lifestyle choices that impact short-term and long-term health.
Have you changed your lifestyle to reduce your risk for dementia? Have you seen the results of making positive lifestyle changes? Share your story with us in the comments below. 
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How Lifestyle Changes Can Help Reduce the Risk of Dementia

Last Updated: September 17, 2018 Research continues to show the impact that positive lifestyle changes can have on brain health, so the Alzheimer’s Association recently compiled simple steps to follow to prevent cognitive decline and reduce the risk of dementia. Learn more about these steps and how they can help maintain, and in some cases improve, […]

There are many interventions that have been recently targeted in clinical research studies, aimed at preventing the onset of early  Alzheimer’s disease.<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67809" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Interventions-That-May-Slow-Memory-Loss-in-Early-Alzheimer%E2%80%99s-Disease-300x158.jpg" alt="Interventions That May Slow Memory Loss in Early Alzheimer’s Disease" width="300" height="158" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Interventions-That-May-Slow-Memory-Loss-in-Early-Alzheimer%E2%80%99s-Disease-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Interventions-That-May-Slow-Memory-Loss-in-Early-Alzheimer%E2%80%99s-Disease-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Interventions-That-May-Slow-Memory-Loss-in-Early-Alzheimer%E2%80%99s-Disease.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Read more about the primary interventions for early Alzheimer&#8217;s and how you can implement them to prevent memory loss in your life.
<h2>Interventions That May Slow Early Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
There are several stages of Alzheimer’s disease, (including stage 1, 2 and 3), as defined by the <a href="https://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_stages_of_alzheimers.asp" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Alzheimer&#8217;s Association</a> and the <a href="https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">National Institute on Aging</a>:
<ol>
<li>Stage 1 means that Alzheimer’s has started in the brain, but there are no symptoms of memory loss yet — this stage can last up to 20 years.</li>
<li>Stage 2 involves mild changes in memory and perhaps in thinking skills as well (this stage is also called mild cognitive impairment or MCI for short).</li>
<li>Stage 3 indicates that memory and thinking skills are so impaired that a person needs help to complete daily activities of living (such as bathing and eating). Stage 3 is also referred to as late-stage or Alzheimer’s dementia.</li>
</ol>
The <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-prevention-tools/">primary areas of prevention</a> that may slow memory loss in early stages of Alzheimer&#8217;s include:
<ul>
<li>Changing modifiable risk factors such as losing weight and quitting smoking</li>
<li>Cognitive activities (such as playing music and reading)</li>
<li>Diet and nutrition</li>
<li>Other lifestyle changes (such as getting enough sleep each day)</li>
<li>Physical exercise</li>
<li>Prevention of other high-risk factors (such as diabetes and high blood pressure)</li>
</ul>
<h2>The Popular Approach to Early Alzheimer’s Prevention</h2>
One popular, relatively new approach to Alzheimer’s prevention, that is backed up by scientific research, is a customized protocol. This is called a “multimodal intervention.” This means that based on each individual person, the Alzheimer’s prevention, care plan is different — considering many factors (including biomarkers (a measurable substance whose presence is indicative a disease), genetics and risk factors.
Alzheimer’s risk factors that can be changed (modifiable risk factors) are things like:
<ul>
<li>Blood pressure control</li>
<li>Obesity (weight loss)</li>
<li>Smoking</li>
</ul>
Those that cannot be controlled (non-modifiable risk factors) include:
<ul>
<li>Age (the most influential of all the risk factors)</li>
<li>Gender (women are more likely to get Alzheimer&#8217;s than men)</li>
<li>Genetics</li>
</ul>
Multimodal interventions thought to slow memory loss include:
<ol>
<li>Engaging in cognitive activities (such as music, reading or writing).</li>
<li>Engaging in <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/healthier-lifestyle-may-prevent-dementia/">regular physical exercise</a>.</li>
<li>Implementing the Alzheimer’s diet (Mediterranean diet, <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/4-8-15-mind-diet-alzheimers-prevention/">MIND diet</a> or the FINGER diet).</li>
<li>Maintaining a good sleep pattern.</li>
<li>Reducing stress.</li>
<li>Staying informed of new Alzheimer&#8217;s prevention tools.</li>
<li>Staying socially engaged.</li>
</ol>
There has been a phenomenal increase in evidence from clinical research studies finding that changing the diet promotes brain health across the continuum of Alzheimer’s. Diet has also been found to help improve normal age-related cognitive decline.
<a href="http://www.theadplan.com/featuredbook1.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Nutrients that have been studied for Alzheimer’s prevention</a> include:
<ul>
<li>Antioxidants (flavanols)</li>
<li>Folic acid, B6 and B12</li>
<li>Omega 3 fatty acids (from wild caught cold water fish such as salmon)</li>
<li>Vitamin D</li>
</ul>
It’s vital to understand that the term “prevention” means many things when it comes to Alzheimer’s, such as interventions that may prevent a person at high risk from progressing to early Alzheimer’s disease or MCI. Prevention measures could also be aimed at preventing early Alzheimer’s from progressing to Alzheimer’s dementia — this is where most of the research studies have focused.
Another application for intervention calls for earlier diagnoses before symptoms arise. Many medical experts feel this is where hope lies in future prevention success.
Although there are many promising new prevention measures being studied for Alzheimer’s disease today, many more clinical research studies are needed to enable scientists to learn which interventions help prevent the onset and slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s symptoms.
Have you tried any of these interventions to slow memory loss in early Alzheimer&#8217;s? What was your experience like? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories in the comments below.
Related Articles:
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<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-prevention-tools/">Alzheimer’s Prevention Tools</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/healthier-lifestyle-may-prevent-dementia/">Healthier Lifestyle May Prevent 1 in 3 Cases of Dementia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/4-8-15-mind-diet-alzheimers-prevention/">MIND Diet Could Reduce Risk of Alzheimer’s</a></li>
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Interventions That May Slow Memory Loss in Early Alzheimer’s Disease

There are many interventions that have been recently targeted in clinical research studies, aimed at preventing the onset of early  Alzheimer’s disease. Read more about the primary interventions for early Alzheimer’s and how you can implement them to prevent memory loss in your life. Interventions That May Slow Early Alzheimer’s There are several stages of […]

A team of scientists have developed an ultra-thin brain implant that can administer medication to targeted areas deep within the brain structure. <img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Brain-Implant-Can-Deliver-Medicine-by-the-Push-of-a-Button-300x158.jpg" alt="Brain Implant Can Deliver Medicine by the Push of a Button" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68217" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Brain-Implant-Can-Deliver-Medicine-by-the-Push-of-a-Button-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Brain-Implant-Can-Deliver-Medicine-by-the-Push-of-a-Button-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Brain-Implant-Can-Deliver-Medicine-by-the-Push-of-a-Button.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about the device and how it can help people living with neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson&#8217;s disease.
<h2>A Revolutionary Approach to Medication Administration</h2>
In a study funded by the National Institutes of Health and conducted by researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, researchers have created an ultra-thin brain implant that can deliver <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/neurosteroid-treatment-for-alzheimers/">medications to the brain</a> by remote control.
The customizable <a href="https://www.yahoo.com/news/tiny-implant-deliver-medicine-brain-160053991.html" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.yahoo.com/news/tiny-implant-deliver-medicine-brain-160053991.html">deep-brain implant can deliver different doses</a> of more than one drug on demand. The device is composed of two thin medication tubes slid into a stainless steel needle the diameter of a single human hair (approximately 150 microns). The needle is then interred through a hole in the skull into the desired area of the brain. An electrode on the tip of the device provides feedback and monitors how targeted neurons adapt to the medication.
The device, named miniaturized neural drug delivery system (MiNDS) is hooked to two, small programmable pumps under the skin that hold the medications. The pumps can be refilled through injection. Currently, the device can deliver medication for up to two months.
<h2>Brain Implant: A Potential New Way to Treat Dementia</h2>
MiNDS has only been tested in mice and non-human primates so far, but if successful in human trials, it may help <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/new-diagnostic-and-treatment-options-for-alzheimers/">treat brain diseases</a> like dementia and Parkinson&#8217;s.
<blockquote>Robert Langer, professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and part of the MiNDS research team said, “You could deliver things right to where you want, no matter the disease.”</blockquote>
For many brain diseases, getting medications past the blood-brain barrier is a show stopper, and <a href="https://thenextweb.com/science/2018/01/25/mit-scientists-created-a-deep-brain-implant-that-pumps-drugs-into-your-skull/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="https://thenextweb.com/science/2018/01/25/mit-scientists-created-a-deep-brain-implant-that-pumps-drugs-into-your-skull/">reaching the deepest structures of the brain</a> can be downright impossible. Drugs delivered by IV that do make it past the blood-brain barrier encompass the entire brain and can trigger unwanted side effects.
MIT Professor Michael Cima says, “One of the problems with central nervous system drugs is that they’re not specific, and if you’re taking them orally they go everywhere. The only way we can limit the exposure is to just deliver to a cubic millimeter of the brain, and in order to do that, you have to have extremely small cannulas.”
<blockquote>Having a device that delivers medications directly to the area of the brain needed could greatly <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-13/alzheimers-brain-stages/">improve the quality of life for people living with diseases like dementia</a>, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s.</blockquote>
Additional testing is no doubt necessary before the brain implant will be attempted in humans but these kinds of tools and insight into the brain are crucial for research and give scientists additional insight into how the medication affects neurons in the brain.
Would you try a brain implant device like this to treat dementia? Why or why not? We&#8217;d like to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
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<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/neurosteroid-treatment-for-alzheimers/">Neurosteroid: A New Treatment for Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/new-diagnostic-and-treatment-options-for-alzheimers/">New Diagnostic and Treatment Options for Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-13/alzheimers-brain-stages/">What Does Alzheimer’s Do to the Brain?</a></li>
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Brain Implant Can Deliver Medicine by the Push of a Button

A team of scientists have developed an ultra-thin brain implant that can administer medication to targeted areas deep within the brain structure. Learn more about the device and how it can help people living with neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. A Revolutionary Approach to Medication Administration In a study funded by the National […]

A type of therapy for Alzheimer’s disease and related forms of dementia, habilitation therapy allows people with the disease to retain their level of functioning by encouraging independence and providing a strong sense of purpose.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Habilitation-Therapy-for-Alzheimers-300x158.jpg" alt="Habilitation Therapy for Alzheimer’s" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68199" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Habilitation-Therapy-for-Alzheimers-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Habilitation-Therapy-for-Alzheimers-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Habilitation-Therapy-for-Alzheimers.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> 
Learn more about habilitation therapy, how it differs from rehabilitation therapy, and how it can benefit people with dementia and their caregivers.
<h2>The Best Standard of Care for Alzheimer’s</h2>
<a href="https://psychcentral.com/lib/habilitation-therapy-for-alzheimers-and-dementia-care/" target="_blank" data-cke-saved-href="https://psychcentral.com/lib/habilitation-therapy-for-alzheimers-and-dementia-care/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Habilitation therapy</a> (HT) is designed to help people with Alzheimer’s disease improve functional abilities that are hindered by the progression of dementia.
<blockquote>Aided by a better understanding of the psychology of the disease, habilitation therapy is thought by some researchers to be best standard of care and psychosocial intervention for people living with Alzheimer’s.</blockquote>
First developed in the 1990s by the <a href="https://www.alz.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Alzheimer’s Association</a> (Massachusetts/New Hampshire chapter), HT is considered to be the best practice in day to day care for people with Alzheimer’s and related forms of dementia. Habilitation therapy is not rehabilitation therapy, which strives to return a person to their earlier, higher level of functioning. That is not possible for someone with progressive memory loss. Thus, habilitation therapy focuses on extending current levels of functioning.
Touted as creating positive environments and relationships, HT is a comprehensive and holistic approach to dementia care that focuses on the abilities that the person with dementia still has, as opposed to what they have lost.
<blockquote>Habilitation therapy emphasizes capabilities, rather than inabilities, to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-prevention-tools/">reduce difficult symptoms</a>.</blockquote>
<h2>The Benefits of Habilitation Therapy</h2>
Habilitation therapy can benefit everyone involved, including the person living with memory loss, their caregivers,  family and friends.
Benefits of habilitation therapy include:
<ul>
<li>Bringing caregivers and patients closer together as they work together on daily tasks</li>
<li>Exposure for a variety of emotions, including feeling respected, safe and valued</li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/new-diagnostic-and-treatment-options-for-alzheimers/">Lessened need for medications</a>, including antipsychotics</li>
<li>Positive emotional experiences that bring pleasure, comfort, and happiness</li>
<li>Reduction of stress among caregivers, as the person with dementia is able to care for themselves longer</li>
<li>Sense of purpose for person with dementia</li>
</ul>
While the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/cognitive-vitality/">person with dementia can extend functioning</a> through habilitation therapy, caregivers are still required to carry many daily duties.
Additionally, regardless of therapy, there is an emotional, financial and physical cost of caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or a related form of dementia.
Have you used habilitation therapy with your loved one? Have you seen the benefits of the therapy? Would you recommend it? Why or why not? We&#8217;d like to hear more about your experiences in the comments below.
Related Articles:
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<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-prevention-tools/">Alzheimer’s Prevention Tools</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/new-diagnostic-and-treatment-options-for-alzheimers/">New Diagnostic and Treatment Options for Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/cognitive-vitality/">What Is Cognitive Vitality?</a></li>
</ul>

Habilitation Therapy for Alzheimer’s

A type of therapy for Alzheimer’s disease and related forms of dementia, habilitation therapy allows people with the disease to retain their level of functioning by encouraging independence and providing a strong sense of purpose. Learn more about habilitation therapy, how it differs from rehabilitation therapy, and how it can benefit people with dementia and their […]

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S. and the only disease listed on the World Health Organization’s <a href="http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs310/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">top 10 causes of death</a> that cannot be cured. <img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67855" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/New-Approaches-for-Dealing-with-Difficult-Dementia-Behaviors1-300x158.jpg" alt="New Diagnostic and Treatment Options for Alzheimer's" width="300" height="158" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/New-Approaches-for-Dealing-with-Difficult-Dementia-Behaviors1-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/New-Approaches-for-Dealing-with-Difficult-Dementia-Behaviors1.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about Alzheimer&#8217;s and which diagnostic and treatment options are available to seniors with the disease today.
<h2>Facts About Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
Before delving into <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/scientists-work-towards-better-cheaper-alzheimers-test/">what’s new on the horizon for Alzheimer’s research</a>, it’s important to understand what we know about the disease today:
<ol>
<li>Alzheimer’s is associated with a sticky substance in the brain called beta-amyloid protein. When <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/scientists-discover-alzheimers-sequence/">amyloid gets deposited</a> in the brain, it interferes with the normal transmission of nerve cells — and eventually leads to the early death of these cells.</li>
<li>Another abnormal protein called tau tangles are thought to deprive the nerve cells in the brain of vital nutrients.</li>
<li>Amyloid and tau tangles are considered hallmark symptoms of Alzheimer’s.</li>
<li>The disease process <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/4-04-16-area-of-brain-where-alzheimers-begins/">starts in an area of the brain called the hippocampus</a>, which is normally involved in memory. That’s why memory loss is one of the first symptoms of the disease.</li>
<li>There are several stages of Alzheimer&#8217;s, beginning with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).</li>
<li>The earlier stages of the disease involve memory loss and mild symptoms. Dementia occurs in the later stages of AD, and involves the inability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, cooking, dressing and eating.</li>
<li>Alzheimer’s is thought to begin in the brain <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/researchers-use-algorithm-to-predict-alzheimers-years-before-symptoms/">20-30 years before symptoms ever occur</a>, so early diagnosis and treatment interventions are vital to slowing down or stopping the disease process all together.</li>
</ol>
<h2>New Diagnostic and Treatment Options for Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
Scientists say they are “cautiously hopeful” when it comes to developing effective new treatments to delay the progression of Alzheimer’s. An increase in the level of knowledge and understanding of just how AD effects the brain may lead to promising new Alzheimer’s treatments – and help short-circuit the disease process.
In the modern-day world of <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-research/">Alzheimer’s research</a>, there are some exciting new possibilities. Two such new modes of treatment have never been used before for Alzheimer’s disease. These include:
<ul>
<li>Drugs that may help lower beta amyloid levels and others that work to untwist abnormal tau protein</li>
<li>New drugs that help memory and vaccines that suppress the immune system, are two other examples of future treatment options for the disease</li>
</ul>
None of these new drugs so far have been deemed the holy grail for a new Alzheimer’s cure. Many experts feel that the answer to the puzzle will come in the form of a “cocktail” of sorts, with individualized treatment designed to address the many facets of the disease.
This treatment approach, similar to modern therapy methods for cancer and HIV, makes sense, particularly when you consider that AD is a disease with various stages each with its own set of symptoms.
<h3>Treating Alzheimer’s by Targeting Amyloid Plaques</h3>
Because scientists understand the involvement of a sticky abnormal protein in the brain, called beta amyloid plaques, new studies are underway to take aim at interrupting the growth of these microscopic clumps. Beta amyloid interferes with normal nerve transmission, resulting in memory and thinking problems. Amyloid plaques are considered a hallmark of the disease.
Several new drugs called “monoclonal antibodies” are thought to work to prevent amyloid from clumping to form the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-13/alzheimers-brain-stages/">unwanted plaques in the brain</a>. The body normally produces these antibodies, which naturally respond to foreign invaders. Two new drugs in the monoclonal antibody class include aducanumab and solanezumab.  In preliminary studies, these drugs were considered effective for people in the early stages of AD (with mild symptoms such as memory loss). But more studies are required before the drug can be offered to the public.
One recent finding in Alzheimer’s studies was a substance (another protein) called “Fyn,” which becomes over-activated when combined with beta-amyloid. This results in a trigger that goes off to cause destruction of nerve cell connections, or synapses, in the brain. A new drug called saracatinib is being tested in mice studies to observe whether the drug can turn off Fyn, allowing nerve transmissions to function normally again. The mice studies were effective and now, saracatinib is being tested in human clinical research studies.
<h3>Treating Alzheimer’s by Interrupting Tau Tangles</h3>
When the protein in the brain called “tau” ends up abnormally twisted, this is yet another abnormality occurring as a symptom of Alzheimer’s. This process causes a collapse of the system normally responsible for transporting nutrients to the brain cells.
Tau tangles interfere with the brain cells’ ability to receive vital nutrients, ultimately <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/stages-of-alzheimers-disease/">resulting in death of the neurons or brain cells</a>.
Scientists are currently working on new vaccines and other types of drugs that may prevent tau from forming these abnormal tangles.
<h3>Treating Alzheimer’s by Reducing Inflammation in the Brain</h3>
Chronic low-level brain cell inflammation has been noted in people with Alzheimer’s.
Another new <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/scientists-discover-alzheimers-sequence/">experimental treatment for AD</a> involves finding a way to reduce the inflammation process.
<h2>Ways You Can Help End Alzheimer’s</h2>
The progress of finding new treatment for Alzheimer’s depends on successful clinical trials. New drugs cannot be made available to the public until they have gone through all phases of clinical trials to ensure they can halt, or slow down, the process of AD, and that they are safe for long-term human use.
Researchers anticipate the need for over 4,000 new participants to get involved by volunteering for clinical trials. People with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and those who are healthy enough to participate as controls are needed.
Search the free tool through the Alzheimer’s Association called <a href="https://trialmatch.alz.org/find-clinical-trials" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">TrialMatch</a> that is offered for people with AD and their caregivers and family members, to find out how to get involved in clinical trials.
Are you optimistic about these new diagnostic and treatment options for Alzheimer&#8217;s? Why or why not? We&#8217;d like to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
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<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-10/how-alzheimers-evolves/">The Evolution of Alzheimer’s from Early to Late Stages</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-13/alzheimers-brain-stages/">What Does Alzheimer’s Do to the Brain?</a></li>
</ul>

New Diagnostic and Treatment Options for Alzheimer's

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S. and the only disease listed on the World Health Organization’s top 10 causes of death that cannot be cured. Learn more about Alzheimer’s and which diagnostic and treatment options are available to seniors with the disease today. Facts About Alzheimer’s Before delving […]

Many of us have either heard or seen the incredible effects that <a href="http://www.aplaceformom.com/blog/music-therapy-dementia-treatment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">music</a> can have on people with dementia. <img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67843" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Music-Therapy-For-Dementia-Awakening-Memories-300x158.jpg" alt="Music Therapy For Dementia: Awakening Memories" width="300" height="158" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Music-Therapy-For-Dementia-Awakening-Memories-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Music-Therapy-For-Dementia-Awakening-Memories-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Music-Therapy-For-Dementia-Awakening-Memories.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about the <a href="http://musicandmemory.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Music &amp; Memory Program</a>, a non-profit organization bringing personalized music to seniors to &#8220;vastly improve [their] quality of life.&#8221; Thus far, the program has provided iPods to over 140 residences in North America.
<h2>The Music &amp; Memory Program</h2>
The world was introduced to the Music &amp; Memory organization through a <a href="http://youtu.be/fyZQf0p73QM" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">YouTube video</a> that went viral upon its release. The video featured a senior, Henry, who had suffered from dementia for a decade and was very withdrawn, unable to communicate&#8230; until Music &amp; Memory gave him an iPod loaded with music from his era.
<blockquote>Suddenly, the man who barely spoke comes to life, reminiscing about how much he had loved dancing and listening to music in his younger years. It&#8217;s an incredibly compelling video.</blockquote>
<iframe title="(original) Man In Nursing Home Reacts To Hearing Music From His Era" width="580" height="326" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fyZQf0p73QM?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
The clip is part of a documentary on the Music &amp; Memory Program, which not only provides seniors with iPods and gives them access to music, but also educates family caregivers and senior care professionals on how to create powerful personalized playlists to help people with Alzheimer&#8217;s and dementia <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/3-11-15-music-alzheimers-and-dementia/">reconnect with memories triggered by music</a>.
Dr. Laura Mosqueda, Director of Geriatrics at the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, explains that because <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/using-the-spark-memories-radio-app-for-dementia/">music affects so many parts of the brain</a>, it touches areas that may not be damaged by the disease and brings those pathways to the forefront. The result is the astounding &#8220;awakening&#8221; that often occurs.
<h2>Seeing Is Believing</h2>
Testimonials really tell Music &amp; Memory&#8217;s story best. A caregiver from <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/new-york/">Valley Stream, New York</a>, said:
<blockquote>&#8220;Patients with anxiety and depression are less agitated and appear calmer. The music transports them to a happier place in their minds.&#8221;</blockquote>
Another reported how &#8220;one gentleman who had a diagnosis of failure to thrive actually gained weight and began taking an interest in the world after he started using the device.&#8221;
Overall, senior care homes report that residents are more engaged and much happier with the use of <a href="http://alzheimers.aplaceformom.com/articles/dementia-therapy-and-music">music therapy</a>. They note that staff members are able to create more meaningful relationships with patients, spending less time dealing with behavioral issues. Perhaps most encouraging, some residences are actually <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/music-and-memory-programs-decrease-use-of-medication/">seeing a reduction in the need for psychotropic drugs</a>, which carry with them a set of problems all their own.
<h2>Ways You Can Help</h2>
Tony Lewis, President and CEO of Cobble Hill Health Care in Brooklyn, may have said it best:
<blockquote>&#8220;Despite the enormous sums of money spent on behavior altering medications that are often not particularly effective, nothing compares to these iPods when it comes to improving <a href="http://youtu.be/VFwIpFh0GPc" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">quality of life</a>.&#8221;</blockquote>
If you&#8217;re interested in locating a certified <a href="http://musicandmemory.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Music &amp; Memory</a> care home or residence in your area, visit the website&#8217;s <a href="http://musicandmemory.org/about/certified-music-and-memory-nursing-homes/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Care Facility Partners page</a>.
You can support this important work by <a href="https://musicandmemory.org/donate-my-ipod/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">donating a gently used iPod</a> or similar device to the organization. Learn more about the simple process on the <a href="http://musicandmemory.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Music &amp; Memory homepage</a>.
We&#8217;d love to hear more about your experience using music therapy for dementia. Share your stories with us in the comments below.
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Music Therapy For Dementia: Awakening Memories

Many of us have either heard or seen the incredible effects that music can have on people with dementia. Learn more about the Music & Memory Program, a non-profit organization bringing personalized music to seniors to “vastly improve [their] quality of life.” Thus far, the program has provided iPods to over 140 residences in North America. The Music & Memory […]

No matter how unpredictable the day has been, I can count on one absolute constant in my life; when I walk in the door, my sweet Yorkie will greet me as if we&#8217;ve been apart for months. Bad or good days, rain or shine, my little buddy will be beside himself with excitement to welcome me home. <img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67784" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Can-Pets-Benefit-Alzheimers-300x200.jpg" alt="How Can Pets Benefit Alzheimer's" width="300" height="200" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Can-Pets-Benefit-Alzheimers-300x200.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Can-Pets-Benefit-Alzheimers-768x513.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Can-Pets-Benefit-Alzheimers.jpg 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Let&#8217;s face it, even on a lousy day it&#8217;s nearly impossible not to smile at the sight an ear-to-ear doggy smile and wildly wagging tail. Learn more about how pets can not only provide companionship, but also reduce anxiety and depression in those with Alzheimer&#8217;s.
<h2>Alzheimer&#8217;s and Pets</h2>
Researchers have long suggested that pets are good for us, even offering health benefits such as lowering blood pressure and heart rate, reducing the stress hormone cortisol, and boosting levels of the feel-good hormone, serotonin. It stands to reason, then, that finding four-legged friends in <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/find-dementia-care">Alzheimer&#8217;s and dementia communities</a> is becoming commonplace. In fact, some facilities are hiring pet coordinators to aid in the care of residents&#8217; pets.
Anyone who owns a cat or dog can attest to the beauty of their unconditional love, and animals often forge a special connection with people with <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/types-of-dementia/">Alzheimer&#8217;s and dementia</a>. My mom had a cat for a number of years, and their bond was inexplicable. Holly wore a perpetually annoyed expression on her feline face and loathed most humans, yet she never left my mom&#8217;s side; as much as she detested being picked up, that darn cat would even let Mom carry her around like a rag doll. It never failed to amaze me.
<blockquote>Somehow, Holly knew that her special person needed a special kind of love.</blockquote>
<h2>How Pets Benefit Alzheimer&#8217;s Patients</h2>
While companionship is an obvious benefit, a well-timed pet visit may also <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/11-24-14-anxiety-increase-cognitive-decline">help with anxiety</a> and depression. It&#8217;s not uncommon to watch someone transition from emotionless to joyful when a pet enters the room, especially if it triggers pleasant memories.
However, it is important to also keep in mind that the opposite reaction could occur as well.
If you&#8217;re considering taking your pet for a visit, check with the community first to see if there are any limitations. Once you get the green light, here are a few suggestions that might help make for a positive experience:
<ol>
<li>Be mindful of the pet&#8217;s temperament and energy level. Excessive barking or jumping may do more harm than good.</li>
<li>Consider time of day. Morning or early afternoon visits are probably better choices than late afternoon and evening when <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-seasonal-sundowning-can-affect-alzheimers/">Sundowner&#8217;s </a>is setting in.</li>
<li>Don&#8217;t wear out Fido&#8217;s welcome. Always stay tuned in to your loved one&#8217;s demeanor, as they can quickly reach a point of overstimulation. If they begin to show signs of agitation, simply know that it might be time to end the visit.</li>
<li>Realize that Alzheimer&#8217;s and dementia patients are unpredictable when it comes to pets. When I took Tucker in to visit Mom, some days she laughed and couldn&#8217;t get enough of him, while other days she made it clear that she had no interest. On a really bad day, she found him downright annoying.</li>
</ol>
<h2>Finding Pets That Benefit Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
There are many resources for those families interested in companion pets that benefit Alzheimer&#8217;s:
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.petpartners.org/">Pet Partners</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.petsfortheelderly.org/">Pets for the Elderly Foundation</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.therapydogs.com/">Therapy Dogs, Inc.</a> are just a few.</li>
</ul>
Many local and regional shelters offer special programs to match seniors with the pet that&#8217;s just right for them.
<blockquote>If you&#8217;re considering going this route, there are many things to consider including whether or not your loved one can <a href="http://www.aplaceformom.com/senior-care-resources/articles/pet-friendly-assisted-living" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">care for the pet properly</a>.</blockquote>
You can also contact us today for more information about <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/find-dementia-care">pet friendly Alzheimer&#8217;s and dementia care</a> communities. Our Senior Living Advisors can help families find communities that accept pets and meet all their needs.
Have you had experience with pets that benefit Alzheimer&#8217;s? Share your stories and suggestions with us in the comments below.
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How Can Pets Benefit Alzheimer's?

No matter how unpredictable the day has been, I can count on one absolute constant in my life; when I walk in the door, my sweet Yorkie will greet me as if we’ve been apart for months. Bad or good days, rain or shine, my little buddy will be beside himself with excitement to welcome me […]

Success in recent drug trials is bringing new hope to the fight against Alzheimer&#8217;s disease. Scientists and researchers in the field are encouraged by their results, predicting that dementia treatment drugs will be available in the next decade.<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-62429" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2016/03/dementia-treatment-drugs-could-be-available-by-2025-1-300x158.jpg" alt="Dementia Treatment Drugs Could Be Available by 2025" width="300" height="158" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2016/03/dementia-treatment-drugs-could-be-available-by-2025-1-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2016/03/dementia-treatment-drugs-could-be-available-by-2025-1-1024x538.jpg 1024w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2016/03/dementia-treatment-drugs-could-be-available-by-2025-1-768x403.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2016/03/dementia-treatment-drugs-could-be-available-by-2025-1.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Read more about the reasons for their optimism and the future of drug treatments for Alzheimer&#8217;s prevention.
<h2>Hope for Dementia Treatment</h2>
Experts are predicting that a treatment for Alzheimer&#8217;s will be available in the next 10 years. Driven by success in recent drug trials, researchers are optimistic that a treatment and proven <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/science/science-news/12095838/Drugs-to-treat-Alzheimers-Disease-will-be-available-within-decade-say-scientists.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">prevention method will be available in the next decade</a>.
Professor John Hardy, a renowned dementia expert from University College London is encouraged by recent drug trials stating:
<blockquote>&#8220;I think we&#8217;re on target for therapies by 2025. All of us are excited about drug trials that are going on now. In the coming year we will know if we are already at the start of a new era of better treatments for slowing or stopping the development of Alzheimer&#8217;s disease. I am confident that over the next decade or so we will find more effective ways of preventing or slowing down the dementias. By 2050 such advances should be <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-affects-twice-as-many-people-as-estimated/">benefiting at least a million people</a> a year in the UK.&#8221;</blockquote>
<h2>Positive Trends in Alzheimer&#8217;s Prevention and Treatment</h2>
There is reason to be optimistic in the fight against Alzheimer&#8217;s. Since the 1980s, the rate of dementia has fallen by 20%, largely because of positive lifestyle changes, like a <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-09-20/high-cholesterol-and-alzheimers/">greater awareness of the impact diet and exercise can have</a> on brain health.
Additionally, last summer, one drug trial found that the drug &#8220;Solanezumab&#8221; could prevent mental decline in people with Alzheimer&#8217;s by 33%. The study was the first time that a drug worked on attacking the actual disease process by clearing out amyloid plaques thought to cause dementia, rather than just reducing the symptoms of the disease.
Director of Research and Development at the Alzheimer&#8217;s Society, Dr. Doug Brown, is also encouraged by the progress made in recent drug trials, saying:
&#8220;The development of treatments that can slow the rate of memory loss in Alzheimer&#8217;s disease will, without a doubt, mark a turning point in the way dementia is managed, and be life-changing for people with the condition. We are now making much needed advancements in our understanding of what goes wrong in the brain when dementia develops and <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-09-25/alzheimers-research-funding/">what we should be doing to tackle it.</a>&#8221;
Do you think a cure for Alzheimer&#8217;s and dementia treatment by 2025 is a reality? Why or why not? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
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Dementia Treatment Drugs Could Be Available by 2025

Success in recent drug trials is bringing new hope to the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. Scientists and researchers in the field are encouraged by their results, predicting that dementia treatment drugs will be available in the next decade. Read more about the reasons for their optimism and the future of drug treatments for Alzheimer’s prevention. Hope […]

Vivianne Mitri is a second year business student, biology major, senior center volunteer and the founder and president of the Cal Poly Pomona Alzheimer&#8217;s Buddy Program. Learn more about what lead her to start the program and how it has benefitted her, the other student volunteers and seniors at the center who are living with Alzheimer&#8217;s or a related form of dementia. <img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-62025" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2017/03/A-Student-Leaves-a-Lasting-Impact-on-Seniors-with-Dementia-300x158.png" alt="A Student Leaves a Lasting Impact on Seniors with Dementia" width="300" height="158" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2017/03/A-Student-Leaves-a-Lasting-Impact-on-Seniors-with-Dementia-300x158.png 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2017/03/A-Student-Leaves-a-Lasting-Impact-on-Seniors-with-Dementia-1024x538.png 1024w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2017/03/A-Student-Leaves-a-Lasting-Impact-on-Seniors-with-Dementia-768x403.png 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2017/03/A-Student-Leaves-a-Lasting-Impact-on-Seniors-with-Dementia.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
<h2>Student Volunteer Work Yields New Passion and Mission</h2>
Vivianne Mitri was 14 years old when her grandmother passed away. She had been working to learn Arabic so she could better communicate with her grandmother when she died. This loss and lack of communication left Mitri with a void. &#8220;I was really upset and some part of me thought that I needed to fill a void, so I decided that I wanted to go to the senior center,&#8221; she said.
The first day she volunteered she was placed in the memory care unit, working with seniors who had Alzheimer&#8217;s or a related form of dementia. On that first day, she created meaningful connections with seniors whose families had stopped coming to visit. She has been volunteering at the senior center ever since.
Mitri has launched the <a href="https://www.claremont-courier.com/articles/news/t21265-mitri" target="_blank" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.claremont-courier.com/articles/news/t21265-mitri" rel="noopener noreferrer">Alzheimer&#8217;s Buddy Program</a> at Cal Poly Pomona where students visit the senior center two times each week. Students join them on walks, perform musical instruments and spend quality time with seniors who have Alzheimer&#8217;s. Miri says, &#8220;The way that they light up when the music comes on is just incredible. They light up when children walk in, or people in general, because they have visitors. They start to recognize that we&#8217;re coming and they&#8217;ll be like, &#8216;They&#8217;re here!&#8217; They look forward to it now.&#8221;
<h2>Alzheimer&#8217;s Buddy Programs: A Mutually Beneficial Relationship</h2>
The club is currently comprised of 15 members and has received a Reach Byond award from the senior center for their efforts and commitment to the residents. While the club&#8217;s mission is to show the residents that someone cares about them and help them focus on their thoughts, Mitri says that she hopes the club&#8217;s members will be personally impacted by relationships with the residents.
&#8220;Sometimes, I&#8217;m at school and I&#8217;m feeling stressed out, so I go talk to Edda. She really calms me down and puts me in my place so I can come back ready to go,&#8221; Ms. Mitri said. Mitri plans on partnering with the local animal shelter to bring pets in to the community for residents to enjoy and wants to take the residents on outings to the nail salon and local shops.
The club has also partnered with Harvard&#8217;s Alzheimer&#8217;s Buddy Program and other local chapters to create the National Alzheimer&#8217;s Buddy Program.
How have you seen intergenerational relationships benefit both parties? Is your loved one in a program like this? We&#8217;d love to hear your stories in the comments below. 
<h3>Related Articles</h3>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-05/buddy-programs-help-alzheimers-patients/" target="_self" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-05/buddy-programs-help-alzheimers-patients/" rel="noopener noreferrer">How Buddy Programs Are Affecting Alzheimer&#8217;s Patients</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/9-23-15-art-allows-medical-students-to-connect-to-dementia/" target="_self" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.alzheimers.net/9-23-15-art-allows-medical-students-to-connect-to-dementia/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Sharing Art Allows Medical Students to Connect to Dementia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-05-17/how-can-pets-benefit-alzheimers-patients/" target="_self" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-05-17/how-can-pets-benefit-alzheimers-patients/" rel="noopener noreferrer">How Can Pets Benefit Alzheimer&#8217;s Patients</a></li>
</ul>
&nbsp;

A Student Leaves a Lasting Impact on Seniors with Dementia

Vivianne Mitri is a second year business student, biology major, senior center volunteer and the founder and president of the Cal Poly Pomona Alzheimer’s Buddy Program. Learn more about what lead her to start the program and how it has benefitted her, the other student volunteers and seniors at the center who are living with […]

Today&#8217;s memory care communities strive to engage seniors with Alzheimer&#8217;s and related forms of dementia on a variety of levels. One way to engage residents and keep them active is through aquatic exercise. More than having fun in the pool, water exercise classes can actually be therapeutic and beneficial for people living with neurodegenerative conditions.
<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-62016" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2017/03/Aquatic-Exercise-for-Dementia-300x158.png" alt=" Aquatic Exercise for Dementia" width="300" height="158" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2017/03/Aquatic-Exercise-for-Dementia-300x158.png 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2017/03/Aquatic-Exercise-for-Dementia-1024x538.png 1024w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2017/03/Aquatic-Exercise-for-Dementia-768x403.png 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2017/03/Aquatic-Exercise-for-Dementia.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />Learn more about the unique benefits aquatic exercise can have on people with Alzheimer&#8217;s.
<h2>Unique Benefits of Water Exercise for Seniors with Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
Water therapy has been used for decades to help people who have deformities in their lower extremities. The exercise can serve as physical therapy, strengthening the entire body with low impact and gentle movement. More recently, studies have shown that <a href="http://www.inertiatherapy.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Dr_Myers_Aquatic_Article.pdf" target="_blank" data-cke-saved-href="http://www.inertiatherapy.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Dr_Myers_Aquatic_Article.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer">aquatic therapy</a> may help people living with neurological conditions including Parkinson&#8217;s Disease and Alzheimer&#8217;s.
The benefits of physical exercise to brain health are widely known but water therapy provides unique benefits that improve the quality of life for people living with dementia. Aside from the normal benefits of exercise, water therapy can improve joint function, improve motor coordination, improve balance and result in&nbsp;an increased range of motion. Additionally, studies have shown that for people who show signs of cognitive impairment, water therapy can be a more effective treatment than land-based exercises and <a href="http://www.classicrehabilitation.com/blog/aquatics-therapy-for-alzheimers-disease/" target="_blank" data-cke-saved-href="http://www.classicrehabilitation.com/blog/aquatics-therapy-for-alzheimers-disease/" rel="noopener noreferrer">improve independence </a>in activities of daily living.
Dementia care coordinator Jackie Green says that residents who have dementia enjoy their water therapy program. &#8220;They feel able to do things. It gives their lives value, because they have a purpose.&#8221; Assistant activities director at a memory care community, Michele Cox echoes Green&#8217;s sentiment, saying &#8220;This has to do with providing quality of life. This doesn&#8217;t treat dementia, but there are case studies that show [exercise] does improve cognition if it&#8217;s repeated. It elevates mood.&#8221;
Has your loved one participated in a water therapy program that improved their quality of life? We&#8217;d love to hear about your experience in the comments below.
Related Articles&nbsp;
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<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-05-10/exercise-and-dementia/" target="_self" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-05-10/exercise-and-dementia/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Exercise and Dementia: Can Dementia Be Prevented Through Exercise?&nbsp;</a></li>
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<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/1-25-16-how-purpose-impacts-your-brain/" target="_self" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.alzheimers.net/1-25-16-how-purpose-impacts-your-brain/" rel="noopener noreferrer">How Purpose Impacts Your Brain</a></li>
</ul>

Aquatic Exercise for Dementia

Today’s memory care communities strive to engage seniors with Alzheimer’s and related forms of dementia on a variety of levels. One way to engage residents and keep them active is through aquatic exercise. More than having fun in the pool, water exercise classes can actually be therapeutic and beneficial for people living with neurodegenerative conditions. […]

Doll therapy is one way Alzheimer&#8217;s disease caregivers try to ease anxiety and bring joy to loved ones with dementia.<img class="alignright wp-image-62003 size-medium" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2014/08/Pros-and-Cons-of-Doll-Therapy-for-Alzheimer%E2%80%99s-300x158.png" alt="Pros and Cons of Doll Therapy for Seniors with Alzheimer's" width="300" height="158" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2014/08/Pros-and-Cons-of-Doll-Therapy-for-Alzheimer%E2%80%99s-300x158.png 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2014/08/Pros-and-Cons-of-Doll-Therapy-for-Alzheimer%E2%80%99s-1024x538.png 1024w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2014/08/Pros-and-Cons-of-Doll-Therapy-for-Alzheimer%E2%80%99s-768x403.png 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2014/08/Pros-and-Cons-of-Doll-Therapy-for-Alzheimer%E2%80%99s.png 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> 
Learn more about how many caregivers have found doll therapy to be a good way to engage loved ones with a purposeful and rewarding activity, while other caregivers and health care providers are hesitant to use the therapy.
<h2>How Doll Therapy Can Help Those with Alzheimer&#8217;s or Dementia</h2>
As many as 60-90% of seniors with <a href="http://www.alzheimer-europe.org/index.php/%E4%B8%95%EF%BF%BD%E9%90%83%E7%B7%92%E7%94%B3%EF%BF%BDEN/content/download/52112/334171/file/P18.3%20Gary%20Mitchell.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Alzheimer&#8217;s struggle with some form of distress</a> due to the disease.
Some caregivers try to ease the burden by giving loved ones lifelike dolls to care for and love. The dolls can become an integral part of a senior&#8217;s life, as caring for the doll becomes a major part of their day to day responsibilities. This type of therapy is also said to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-22/reminiscence-therapy-improves-alzheimers/">bring back some happy memories</a> of early parenthood and help make seniors feel needed and useful.
While most evidence in support of doll therapy is anecdotal, one study completed in 2007 found that it could be used to increase positive behaviors in users, with researchers concluding that the therapy is an <a href="http://www.nursingtimes.net/nursing-practice/clinical-zones/mental-health/using-dolls-to-alter-behaviour-in-patients-with-dementia/201683.article" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">effective approach in caring for seniors with Alzheimer&#8217;s or dementia</a>.
<h2>Tips for Using Doll Therapy for Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
Consider the following <a href="http://www.agedcareguide.com.au/news/2011/06/22/do-you-support-doll-therapy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">suggestions when introducing a doll</a> to your loved one:
<ol>
<li>Communicate the purpose of the doll for anyone else who may be providing care.</li>
<li>Do not force a doll on any senior: allow them to approach, hold and <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-01-23/sensory-stimulation-alzheimers-patients/">be stimulated</a> by the doll on their own time.</li>
<li>Do not call the doll a doll.</li>
<li>Do not purchase a doll that cries out loud, as that could be upsetting.</li>
<li>Provide a bassinet or small crib for the doll.</li>
</ol>
<h2>The Controversial Therapy</h2>
<a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-05-27/montessori-method-dementia/">Although some caregivers have found success using doll therapy</a>, others are hesitant to use the therapy.
Some families find it upsetting to see their loved ones treated like children, calling <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/social-care-network/2013/apr/29/care-homes-doll-therapy-dementia" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">doll therapy &#8220;demeaning and patronizing.&#8221;</a>
Others find it confusing to see their parent care for a doll and feel it replicates a security blanket, masking behavioral issues rather than facing them head on.
Do you think doll therapy is an effective way to treat anxiety and behavioral issues in seniors with Alzheimer&#8217;s or dementia, or is it a demeaning and offensive practice? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
Related Articles:
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<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/8-7-15-dementia-activities-and-benefits/">Dementia Activities and their Benefits</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-01-30/how-positive-environments-affect-patients/">How Positive Environments Dramatically Affect Alzheimer&#8217;s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-01-23/sensory-stimulation-alzheimers-patients/">How Sensory Stimulation Can Help Alzheimer&#8217;s</a></li>
</ul>

Pros and Cons of Doll Therapy for Alzheimer’s

Pros and Cons of Doll Therapy for Seniors with Alzheimer's

Doll therapy is one way Alzheimer’s disease caregivers try to ease anxiety and bring joy to loved ones with dementia. Learn more about how many caregivers have found doll therapy to be a good way to engage loved ones with a purposeful and rewarding activity, while other caregivers and health care providers are hesitant to use […]

Originally used as a therapy in Europe, sensory stimulation has gained prominence in the United States as a treatment for Alzheimer&#8217;s disease.<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67799" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Sensory-Stimulation-Can-Help-Alzheimers-300x158.jpg" alt="How Sensory Stimulation Can Help Alzheimer's" width="300" height="158" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Sensory-Stimulation-Can-Help-Alzheimers-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Sensory-Stimulation-Can-Help-Alzheimers-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Sensory-Stimulation-Can-Help-Alzheimers.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> 
Using everyday objects, therapists can trigger emotions and memories in seniors who have lost their ability to connect with the world around them.
<h2>Sensory Stimulation Therapy</h2>
Sensory stimulation uses everyday objects to arouse one or more of the five senses (hearing, sight, smell, taste and touch), with the goal of evoking positive feelings.
<a href="http://mclean.harvard.edu/employment/nursing/uss.php" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Used in Europe</a> since the 1960s, this therapy was originally designed to help people with learning disabilities. It was a way for them to explore a safe, stimulating environment that provided age-appropriate and enjoyable activity.
Since then, the therapy has become widely used to treat other conditions, including:
<ul>
<li>Alzheimer&#8217;s</li>
<li>Autism</li>
<li>Brain injuries</li>
<li>Chronic pain</li>
<li>Other forms of dementia</li>
</ul>
<h2>Ways Sensory Stimulation Can Affect Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
As Alzheimer&#8217;s progresses, a senior&#8217;s ability to communicate and perform everyday activities declines. Giving these seniors means to express themselves, when they can no longer do so with words, can help them feel safe and relax. This can improve their:
<ol>
<li>Mood</li>
<li>Self-esteem</li>
<li>Well-being</li>
</ol>
Additionally, by drawing attention to a particular item, sensory stimulation encourages memories and responses from seniors suffering from Alzheimer&#8217;s:
<blockquote>For instance, <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/art-therapy-for-alzheimers/">art or photos</a> can trigger emotions and memories for seniors who no longer speak. A senior who has not expressed a word in months might suddenly smile or want to pick up a pencil and draw. That art form eventually can become a means for the senior to communicate, either through personal works of art or simply by sharing the experience.</blockquote>
<h2>Ways Sensory Stimulation Engages Seniors</h2>
Everyday Sensory Cues
The <a href="https://www.caot.ca/default.asp?pageid=3698" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT)</a> explains that sensory stimulation works best when it uses familiar objects and focuses on one sense at a time. Good sensory cues include:
<ul>
<li>Familiar foods and clothing</li>
<li>Natural materials, such as flowers</li>
<li>Sensory-rich materials, such as wood grains and grooming tools</li>
</ul>
In practice, the item is introduced to the person with Alzheimer&#8217;s, and the therapist provides reassuring nonverbal and verbal cues to stimulate a response.
The CAOT gives an example of the smell of toast in the morning. A therapist presents the toast, removing all other stimuli, asks questions related to the toast and might even help the senior bring the toast to his or her mouth.
Sensory Stimulation Activities
Activities involved in sensory stimulation are often linked to interests the person had prior to dementia, and can help build a connection to everyday life. According to the <a href="http://www.alzheimers.org.uk/site/scripts/documents_info.php?documentID=115" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Alzheimer&#8217;s Association</a>, sensory stimulation activities might include:
<ul>
<li>Bringing in objects the senior does not normally have around, such as sand, seashells or other items</li>
<li>Giving a hand massage</li>
<li>Taking a short walk</li>
<li>Talking and reading aloud to the senior</li>
<li>Providing a change of scenery by taking the senior outdoors</li>
</ul>
Depending on how the senior reacts, the therapist might alter the activity or switch to a different sense to find the stimuli that is going to inspire a response.
Sensory stimulation is intended to bring enjoyment to seniors with the disease, reduce their <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-01-14/heal-spirit-after-diagnosis/">anxiety and depression</a>, and increase their social interaction.
Though activities are aimed at seniors, they are still shared with a caregiver, loved one or therapist. Those shared experiences and memories can help bring seniors back to a time that they remember fondly, which can help them feel meaningful again.
Have you tried sensory stimulation with a parent or senior loved one? We&#8217;d love to hear more about your experiences in the comments below.
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How Sensory Stimulation Can Help Alzheimer’s

How Sensory Stimulation Can Help Alzheimer's

Originally used as a therapy in Europe, sensory stimulation has gained prominence in the United States as a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. Using everyday objects, therapists can trigger emotions and memories in seniors who have lost their ability to connect with the world around them. Sensory Stimulation Therapy Sensory stimulation uses everyday objects to arouse one or […]

It is no secret that music has transformative powers. It not only has the ability to change moods and lift spirits, but one song can transport the listener to another place and time. As several <a href="http://www.livescience.com/19765-music-alzheimers-patients-memory.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">YouTube videos</a> have shown, the same is true for listeners with Alzheimer&#8217;s disease.<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-61705" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2015/03/using-music-to-enhance-the-quality-of-life-of-people-with-alzheimers-1-300x158.jpg" alt="Using Music to Enhance the Quality of Life of People with Alzheimer's" width="300" height="158" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2015/03/using-music-to-enhance-the-quality-of-life-of-people-with-alzheimers-1-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2015/03/using-music-to-enhance-the-quality-of-life-of-people-with-alzheimers-1-1024x538.jpg 1024w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2015/03/using-music-to-enhance-the-quality-of-life-of-people-with-alzheimers-1-768x403.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2015/03/using-music-to-enhance-the-quality-of-life-of-people-with-alzheimers-1.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> 
Learn more about the effects of music on people with Alzheimer&#8217;s and how one organization is dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with the disease through digital music programs.
<h2>The Effects of Music on People with Alzheimer&#8217;s or Dementia</h2>
Music has the power to transport us to a place and time in our lives that we have long forgotten. As many caregivers have seen, the same can be true of someone with Alzheimer&#8217;s or dementia.
A research team from the Boston University Alzheimer&#8217;s Disease Center, led by Andrew Budson, associate director for research at the center, believes there are two theories to explain the effects of music on people with Alzheimer&#8217;s and other forms of dementia. 
First, he believes that because music has emotional content it can trigger emotional memories, which he says are &#8220;some of the more powerful memories that we have.&#8221; Another reason music can be so transformative to people with Alzheimer&#8217;s, is that when we learn music, we store the knowledge as procedural memory. Procedural memory is associated with routines and repetitive activities. As dementia progresses, episodic memory is destroyed but procedural memory is largely left intact. 
While more research needs to be done to determine the exact relationship between music and memory, lead author of the study, Nicholas Simmons-Stern said he does know that:
<blockquote>&#8220;Every patient&#8230; could benefit from having more music in their lives.&#8221;</blockquote>
<h2>Using Music to Enhance Quality of Life of People with Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
One non-profit organization agrees with Simmons-Stern, and has made it their mission to bring music to people with dementia.
<a href="http://musicandmemory.org/about/mission-and-vision/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Music &amp; Memory</a> strives to bring &#8220;personalized music into the lives of the elderly&#8230; through digital music technology, vastly improving quality of life.&#8221;
The company trains senior care professionals as well as family caregivers on creating personalized playlists using iPods and other MP3 systems to help people living with dementia reconnect with the world through music. Training includes three 90-minute webinars, plus one year of coaching support which includes monthly conference calls and one-to-one consultations. The training explains to staff why the program works, in addition to the therapeutic benefits of personalized music, then provides training on how to create a successful program. The nonprofit also provides assessment tools as well as best practices to measuring outcomes.
The personalized music program that Music &amp; Memory creates is improving the lives of people with dementia throughout the U.S. and Canada at hundreds of senior care centers. Dr. Concetta Tomaino, Executive Director of the Institute for Music and Neurologic Function says:
<blockquote>&#8220;You can see the value of this program as being not just a casual activity, but almost a necessity for daily care, because of the promise and potential that it has for enhancing quality of life.&#8221;</blockquote>
Other caregivers have said they have seen the positive effects of the program on helping calm people with dementia, enabling them to sit through meals, and some residents say their <a href="http://musicandmemory.org/about/testimonials/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">lives have been changed through these music</a> programs. If you are you looking to help bring music to people with Alzheimer&#8217;s, you can do so by <a href="https://musicandmemory.org/donate-my-ipod/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">donating your used iPod</a> to the cause.
 Have you seen music enhance the quality of life for a loved one with Alzheimer&#8217;s? Share your story with us in the comments below.
Related Articles:
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<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-06-04/music-therapy-for-dementia/">Music Therapy for Dementia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/3-2-15-alzheimers-awareness-through-music/">Raising Alzheimer&#8217;s Awareness Through Music</a></li>
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Using Music to Enhance the Quality of Life of People with Alzheimer's

It is no secret that music has transformative powers. It not only has the ability to change moods and lift spirits, but one song can transport the listener to another place and time. As several YouTube videos have shown, the same is true for listeners with Alzheimer’s disease. Learn more about the effects of music on people with […]

Deep brain stimulation is a neurosurgical procedure that has been shown to be an effective form of treatment for several disorders, including Parkinson&#8217;s disease. A recent study found that deep brain stimulation may also be helpful when it comes to treating Alzheimer&#8217;s disease and related forms of dementia.<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-38775" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2015/08/benefits-of-deep-brain-stimulation-for-alzheimers-300x192.jpg" alt="Benefits of Deep Brain Stimulation for Alzheimer's" width="300" height="192" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2015/08/benefits-of-deep-brain-stimulation-for-alzheimers-300x192.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2015/08/benefits-of-deep-brain-stimulation-for-alzheimers.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about the treatment method and the groundbreaking new study on brain stimulation.
<h2>Deep Brain Stimulation: An Overview</h2>
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deep_brain_stimulation" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">neurosurgical procedure</a> where electrodes are implanted in certain parts of the brain. These electrodes send electrical impulses to specific parts of the brain to change brain activity. The impulses can <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/deep-brain-stimulation/basics/definition/prc-20019122" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">regulate abnormal impulses</a> or affect certain cells and chemicals in the brain.
Controlled by a pacemaker-like device under the skin, DBS has been beneficial for a number of disorders including chronic pain, major depression, essential tremor,  obsessive-compulsive disorder and Parkinson&#8217;s disease.
It is important to note that there are potential <a style="line-height: 1.6" href="http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/deep-brain-stimulation/basics/risks/prc-20019122" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">serious neuropsychiatric side-effects</a> from deep brain stimulation, which range from apathy to compulsive gambling to hyper-sexuality. These side effects are usually temporary and potentially reversible. Electrodes may also become displaced during surgery causing personality changes, but this can also be fixed and identified through a CT scan.
<h2>How Deep Brain Stimulation Creates New Brain Cells</h2>
The <a href="http://elifesciences.org/content/4/e04803" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">latest study to look at the effects of DBS</a> on dementia found that it may be a <a href="http://www.medgadget.com/2015/04/deep-brain-stimulation-as-new-treatment-for-dementia.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">therapeutic target for dementia</a> and related disorders.
The study, conducted at the Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, implanted DBS electrodes in rats. The electrodes were programmed to target the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, which is a part of the brain responsible for a higher level of cognitive function. Researchers noticed a significant improvement in the ability of the rats to perform memory tasks after constant stimulation of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex. They also saw new neurons being formed in the brain, compared to the control group.
This groundbreaking result means that <a href="http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/04/150406071021.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">new brain cells can be created through DPS</a>, which can improve memory retention. The increase in neurons may also reduce anxiety and depression, commonly felt by people living with varying forms of dementia.
Ajai Vyas, Assistant Professor at NTU&#8217;s School of Biological Sciences said:
<blockquote> &#8220;The findings from the research clearly show the potential of enhancing the growth of brain cells using deep brain stimulation. Around 60% of patients do not respond to regular anti-depressant treatments and our research opens new doors for more effective treatment options.&#8221;</blockquote>
Dr Lim Lee Wei, associate professor at Sunway University Mayalsia and researcher added to the enthusiasm of his colleague stating:
&#8220;Memory loss in older people is not only a serious and widespread problem, but signifies a key symptom of dementia. At least one in 10 people aged 60 and above in Singapore suffer from dementia and this breakthrough could pave the way towards improved treatments for patients.&#8221;
<h2>Potential to Restore Memory Using Deep Brain Stimulation</h2>
As the war against Alzheimer&#8217;s and dementia rages, some researchers are continuing to focus on the effects of deep brain stimulation on brain health. Dr. Andres Lozano is one researcher who is studying the surprising positive effects of DBS on memory. In 2008, Lozano and a team of researchers accidentally found that <a href="http://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2016/05/14/477934952/can-electricity-be-used-to-treat-alzheimer-s-disease" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">deep brain stimulation of the hypothalamus increased memory</a>. The researchers were using DBS to treat an obese patient. By targeting the hypothalamus, a small but important part of the brain that helps to regulate appetite and sleep, researchers were hoping to suppress hunger but found that the patient had increased memory and as voltages increased, so did memory.
Looking further into the reason behind increased memory, Lozano&#8217;s team of researchers found that by stimulating the hypothalamus, they were also increasing brain activity in the hippocampus, a part of the brain primarily responsible for memory. Lozano and his team have since began two studies with encouraging but inconclusive outcomes. While final results are yet to be published, the researchers are encouraged that there does not appear to be any long-term health effects by participants who have had regular DBS. However, after one year, there has been no significant difference in cognition between people who have had DBS and people who have not.
While some studies show more support for DBS to recover memories lost due to the disease, other researchers remain skeptical. Dr. Nadar Pouratian is a neurosurgeon and DBS researcher at University of California Los Angeles, and cautions people about the potential of DBS stating:
<blockquote>&#8220;The recent deep brain stimulation trial for Alzheimer&#8217;s clearly demonstrates the safety of this approach for trying to treat the progression of disease. Unfortunately, [the findings] suggest that the therapy may not be as robust as initially proposed.&#8221;</blockquote>
Yet, many researchers remain hopeful that DBS holds the key to memory restoration while acknowledging studies surrounding DBS and dementia are in their infancy and call for more studies to delve deeper into the effects of DBS on memory.
Did you know that deep brain stimulation could be used to treat dementia? What are your thoughts on it as a treatment for memory loss? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
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<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/1-12-15-recovering-long-term-memories">How Recovering Long Term Memories May Be Possible</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/9-22-14-technology-for-dementia">Technological Innovations for Those with Dementia</a></li>
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Benefits of Deep Brain Stimulation for Alzheimer's

Deep brain stimulation is a neurosurgical procedure that has been shown to be an effective form of treatment for several disorders, including Parkinson’s disease. A recent study found that deep brain stimulation may also be helpful when it comes to treating Alzheimer’s disease and related forms of dementia. Learn more about the treatment method and […]

A study from the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) has produced evidence that contradicts the common belief that memories are stored at the synapses of brain cells. Their findings suggest that recovering long term memories from Alzheimer&#8217;s disease or an event such as a concussion may be possible.<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67796" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Recovering-Long-Term-Memories-May-Be-Possible-300x200.jpg" alt="How Recovering Long Term Memories May Be Possible" width="300" height="200" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Recovering-Long-Term-Memories-May-Be-Possible-300x200.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Recovering-Long-Term-Memories-May-Be-Possible-768x511.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Recovering-Long-Term-Memories-May-Be-Possible.jpg 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> 
Learn more about this study and what it might mean for people living with Alzheimer&#8217;s.
<h2>Recovering Long Term Memories</h2>
Most neuroscientists believe that memories are stored in the connections of brain cells called synapses. They believe that when the synapses are destroyed, as happens in Alzheimer&#8217;s, memories are lost forever. A research team from UCLA recently concluded that this may not be the case. Their study was published in the journal <a href="http://elifesciences.org/content/3/e03896" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">eLife</a>.
The team, led by David Glanzman, studied the long term memory of a small marine snail. They built new memories in the small snail by injecting serotonin which triggers and forms new connections in the brain. They trained the snails to be afraid of mild electrical shocks and then, after establishing a long term memory had been formed, they studied the neurons that controlled that reaction in a Petri dish. They then wiped out the new synapse with a protein blocker which, according to current theory, should have wiped out the new memory.
However, it did not and the snails were still afraid of shock which suggests the <a href="http://www.sciencealert.com/a-new-study-suggests-alzheimer-s-patients-may-be-able-to-restore-their-lost-memories" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">long term memory is stored somewhere else</a>.
<h2>Recent Study Supports Recovering Memories in Early Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
More recent studies support the theory that memories lost due to Alzheimer&#8217;s can be recovered. The newest study to suggest the <a href="https://boston.cbslocal.com/2016/03/16/alzheimers-disease-mit-lost-memories-recovered-study/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="http://boston.cbslocal.com/2016/03/16/alzheimers-disease-mit-lost-memories-recovered-study/">recovery of lost memories</a> involved mice with early stages of the disease. Researcher found they could reverse memory loss if the correct set of neurons was activated.
The study, recently published in <a href="http://www.nature.com/articles/nature17312.epdf?referrer_access_token=pelXlbCWKjNBXBeFPnMkldRgN0jAjWel9jnR3ZoTv0OP4SKgthiWlrAN1IrhxplNIy6BJ1uae0JT3XoEhFIEi0hjCPUMxeXvFKKX4XIz5L9NOUQ-pXI73bMGGuNjxv9saOMMdVfNpbPg-XbnZpF4ZM4k0yPf6wX6PC97tC_AROQhb8orrjUVgTt0g7QfWcPPEwgqb_N9w9h22cDLLmPH-PzeXSYAUn2yBch6bR5G-EzNd_VKKdAJEGas9frD8npo&amp;tracking_referrer=arstechnica.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="http://www.nature.com/articles/nature17312.epdf?referrer_access_token=pelXlbCWKjNBXBeFPnMkldRgN0jAjWel9jnR3ZoTv0OP4SKgthiWlrAN1IrhxplNIy6BJ1uae0JT3XoEhFIEi0hjCPUMxeXvFKKX4XIz5L9NOUQ-pXI73bMGGuNjxv9saOMMdVfNpbPg-XbnZpF4ZM4k0yPf6wX6PC97tC_AROQhb8orrjUVgTt0g7QfWcPPEwgqb_N9w9h22cDLLmPH-PzeXSYAUn2yBch6bR5G-EzNd_VKKdAJEGas9frD8npo&amp;tracking_referrer=arstechnica.com">Nature</a>, placed mice in a container where they were exposed to a shock to their foot. When they felt the shock, they froze. The healthy mice remembered what was happening and froze when put in the same box the next day. The mice with early Alzheimer&#8217;s did not remember the shock and thus, did not freeze when placed in the same box the next day.
However, when researchers tagged engram cells (cells which encode a fear memory) with a light-sensitive protein an watched the brain cells of the mice with Alzheimer&#8217;s, they found that those mice actually showed fear. MIT graduate student, Dheeraj Roy, said:
<blockquote>&#8220;Directly activating the cells that we believe are holding the memory gets them to retrieve it. This suggests that it is indeed an access problem to the information, not that they&#8217;re unable to learn or store this memory.&#8221;</blockquote>
<h2>Important Implications of Recovering Long Term Memories</h2>
The conclusions of these studies could be groundbreaking for Alzheimer&#8217;s research, because Alzheimer&#8217;s is thought to only destroy synapses in the brain. Glanzman stated,
<blockquote>&#8220;As long as the neurons are still alive, the memory will still be there, which means you may be able to recover some of the lost memories in the early stages of Alzheimer&#8217;s.&#8221;</blockquote>
He does caution, however, that in later stages of the disease neurons actually die which would most likely inhibit the recovery of a memory.
The study is in its very early stages and it is important to note that while Aplasia does have similar neural molecular and cellular processes to humans they only have 20,000 neurons compared to the one trillion neurons found in the human brain. Nevertheless, the study does bring a glimmer of hope to the research community as well as the nearly 36 million people worldwide living with the disease.
What do you think? Are you hopeful that long term memories can be recovered in those with the disease? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
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How Recovering Long Term Memories May Be Possible

A study from the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) has produced evidence that contradicts the common belief that memories are stored at the synapses of brain cells. Their findings suggest that recovering long term memories from Alzheimer’s disease or an event such as a concussion may be possible. Learn more about this study and what […]

Researchers have found that cancer therapy may have Alzheimer&#8217;s and dementia prevention benefits, stopping the disease before symptoms occur.<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-38183" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2016/04/cancer-therapy-could-prevent-dementia-300x192.jpg" alt="Cancer Therapy Could Prevent Dementia" width="300" height="192" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2016/04/cancer-therapy-could-prevent-dementia-300x192.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2016/04/cancer-therapy-could-prevent-dementia.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> 
Learn more about this study and how the methodology of the study may have a larger impact on future studies.
<h2>Cancer Therapy Could Prevent Dementia Before Onset</h2>
An international team of researchers from England, the Netherlands and Sweden has found that the cancer drug &#8220;bexarotene,&#8221; may target the first step of Alzheimer&#8217;s disease that leads to the death of brain cells. The study, recently published in the journal <a href="http://advances.sciencemag.org/content/2/2/e1501244.full" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Science Advances</a>, is the first study to report the potential of <a href="https://alzheimersnewstoday.com/2016/02/16/a-cancer-drug-could-help-protect-against-alzheimers-disease-new-study-finds/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">bexarotene as a &#8220;neurostatin&#8221;</a> while previous studies have hailed its ability to delay the onset of Alzheimer&#8217;s.
Researchers tested the cancer drug on worms genetically modified to develop Alzheimer&#8217;s. They noted that the drug was not effective after symptoms of the disease emerged but that when the drug was delivered before symptoms were present, the worms did not go on to develop Alzheimer&#8217;s. More specifically, the international research team found that bexarotene stops the first stage of the progression of the disease, called primary nucleation.
Senior author of the study, Professor Michele Vendruscolo from Cambridge&#8217;s Department of Chemistry stated, &#8220;The body has a variety of natural defences to protect itself against neurodegeneration, but as we age, these defenses become progressively impaired and can get overwhelmed. By understanding how these natural defenses work, we might be able to support them by designing drugs that behave in similar ways.&#8221;
<h2>How Cancer Therapy Could Pave the Way for New Dementia Treatments</h2>
For this study, researchers employed a new approach using a test developed by two professors, Tuomas Knowles and Sara Linse. The approach allows researchers to determine what is happening at each stage of Alzheimer&#8217;s and how turning off one of those stages will affect the other stages.
Aside from the success of the anti-cancer drug on stopping the progression of Alzheimer&#8217;s, Vendruscolo acknowledges the significance of using this new approach to find a potential treatment for Alzheimer&#8217;s, saying:
<blockquote>&#8220;One of the real steps forward was to take a molecule that we thought could be a potential drug and work out exactly what it does. In this case, what it does is suppress primary nucleation, which is the aim for any neurostatin-type molecule. If you stop the process before aggregation has started, you can&#8217;t get proliferation.&#8221;</blockquote>
Using the new method allowed researchers to target the drug at the correct place in the progression of the disease. Co-author of the study, Professor Chris Dobson from the University of Cambridge, said, &#8220;Even if you have an effective molecule, if you target the wrong step in the process, you can actually make things worse by causing toxic protein assemblies to build up elsewhere. It&#8217;s like traffic control &mdash; if you close a road to try to reduce jams, you can actually make the situation worse if you put the block in the wrong place. It is not necessarily the case that all the molecules in earlier drug trials were ineffective, but it may be that in some cases the timing of the delivery was wrong.&#8221;
Researchers acknowledge that more studies need to be done to determine the effectiveness of the cancer drug in fighting Alzheimer&#8217;s, but are encouraged by their findings and their methodology.
Do you think that this cancer therapy could potentially revolutionize the way Alzheimer&#8217;s drugs are researched? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
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Cancer Therapy Could Prevent Dementia

Researchers have found that cancer therapy may have Alzheimer’s and dementia prevention benefits, stopping the disease before symptoms occur. Learn more about this study and how the methodology of the study may have a larger impact on future studies. Cancer Therapy Could Prevent Dementia Before Onset An international team of researchers from England, the Netherlands and Sweden […]

A study by the Rush University Medical Center in Chicago recently linked better cognitive performance with a purposeful life. Researchers found that people who reported feeling a strong sense of purpose in life experienced less cognitive decline, although the damage to the brain from Alzheimer&#8217;s disease was the same as people who had more cognitive decline and reported less of a sense of purpose.<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-36402" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2016/01/how-purpose-impacts-your-brain-300x192.jpg" alt="How Purpose Impacts Your Brain" width="300" height="192" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2016/01/how-purpose-impacts-your-brain-300x192.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2016/01/how-purpose-impacts-your-brain.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about the study and find out how you and your loved ones can become more involved in the community.
<h2>Study Finds that Purpose Impacts Your Brain</h2>
A study from Chicago&#8217;s Rush University Medical Center recently analyzed the brain tissue of 246 people who died during a long term study involving 1,400 seniors. The study, reported in the <a href="http://archpsyc.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=1151486" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Archives of General Psychiatry</a>, found that people who showed similar levels of damage from Alzheimer&#8217;s in the brain actually exhibited different levels of cognitive decline.
After digging deeper, researchers found that those participants who reported having <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/ashton-applewhite/purpose-in-life-brain_b_8555918.html?utm_hp_ref=alzheimers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">more purpose in life over the course of the study had better functioning brains</a>. Researchers accounted for other factors including education and exercise levels.
<blockquote>The study defined &#8216;purpose&#8217; as &#8220;the tendency to derive meaning from life&#8217;s experiences and possess a sense of intentionality and goal directedness that guides behavior.&#8221;</blockquote>
Other studies have linked a sense of purpose to not only slower cognitive decline but also to lower rates of disability and even death.
<h2>8 Ways for Seniors to Stay Engaged and Impact the Brain</h2>
Some may find it difficult to continue being active as they age. But, many seniors find that volunteer opportunities can help them stay active, engaged and have more of a sense of purpose in their lives.
Although it is important to take into consideration the stage and progression of Alzheimer&#8217;s and dementia during this time, here are 8 ways that <a href="http://money.howstuffworks.com/economics/volunteer/retired-volunteer-programs/10-best-volunteer-activities-in-retirement10.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">seniors can stay engaged</a> for brain health:
1. Habitat for Humanity: A nonprofit organization that builds and repairs homes for people in need. Retirees account for a large percentage of the volunteers that drive their own RVs around the United States to help with projects throughout the country.
2. USO: The USO strives to create a better quality of life for military members and their families and seeks volunteers to help with everything from working in their offices in airports, greeting troops as they arrive home or assisting on overseas tours.
3. Children&#8217;s Hospitals: Many children&#8217;s hospitals seek volunteers to tutor patients, read stories, or watch children in the play room. Volunteers can also help families feel more comfortable by bringing water, food or whatever they need during their hospital stay.
4. Meals on Wheels: Meals on Wheels gives seniors the chance to serve other seniors, bringing food to those who can not leave their homes. Many of the organization&#8217;s 1.7 million volunteers are retirees.
5. Red Cross: Many retired nurses, doctors, EMTs, pharmacists and other medical personnel can find purpose with the Red Cross. The Red Cross also has a place for people who can interpret other languages or serve as chaplains or legal advisors to help with disaster relief around the world or at home.
6. Leading Guided Tours: Many local landmarks or historical places seek retirees who can lead guided tours. Many seniors have unique personal knowledge of the landmark and can provide a personal tour that guests won&#8217;t forget.
7. Political Campaigns: Particularly relevant in a presidential election year, many retirees join political campaigns, calling voters, leading a local event and knocking on doors to support a candidate they believe in.
8. Humane Societies or Animal Shelters: Many seniors find spending days with animals comforting and fun. Humane societies are often seeking volunteers to walk dogs, bathe animals or even perform administrative tasks.
How have you or your loved one been involved in the community? Have you seen a correlation between community involvement and overall health? Share your stories with us in the comments below.
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How Purpose Impacts Your Brain

A study by the Rush University Medical Center in Chicago recently linked better cognitive performance with a purposeful life. Researchers found that people who reported feeling a strong sense of purpose in life experienced less cognitive decline, although the damage to the brain from Alzheimer’s disease was the same as people who had more cognitive […]

A 2004 romantic comedy has inspired one assisted living community to change the way they communicate with their residents who have Alzheimer&#8217;s disease or a related dementia.<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-32694" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2015/05/movie-inspires-alzheimers-patients-to-begin-day-in-new-way-300x192.jpg" alt="Movie Inspires Alzheimer's Patients to Begin Day in New Way" width="300" height="192" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2015/05/movie-inspires-alzheimers-patients-to-begin-day-in-new-way-300x192.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2015/05/movie-inspires-alzheimers-patients-to-begin-day-in-new-way.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Residents who have Alzheimer&#8217;s at the Hebrew Home at Riverdale, begin each day with a five minute video from a loved one letting them know who they are, where they are, and who will be caring for them.
Learn more about this innovative technique, how the movie inspires Alzheimer&#8217;s patients and the positive effects it is having on those living with and caring for the disease.
<h2>An Innovative Alzheimer&#8217;s Technique</h2>
An idea borrowed from an unlikely source is bringing a new twist to dementia caregiving.
Residents who have Alzheimer&#8217;s and other forms of dementia at the <a href="http://www.riverspringhealth.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Hebrew Home at Riverdale</a>, begin each day with a <a style="color: #0782c1" href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/04/17/dementia-patients-family-video_n_7087352.html" target="_blank" data-cke-saved-href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/04/17/dementia-patients-family-video_n_7087352.html" rel="noopener noreferrer">five minute video from their loved ones</a> reminding them who they are, where they are, and that they are loved and cared for.
The idea comes from the 2004 Adam Sandler movie, &#8220;<a href="http://www.sonypictures.com/movies/50firstdates/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">50 First Dates</a>&#8221; where Adam Sandler&#8217;s character plays a man in love with a traumatic brain-injured woman, played by Drew Barrymore. Because she has no short term memory, she does not remember him from day to day, so Sandler&#8217;s character makes a video that Barrymore can watch every day to remind her who he is and what their life together is like.
Director of Social Services at the Hebrew Home, Charlotte Dell, saw the movie and wondered: &#8220;It was fluff, but it made me think, &#8216;How could that translate to our residents with memory loss?&#8217; We&#8217;re looking to see if we can set a positive tone for the day without using drugs. What better way to start the day than to see the face and hear the voice of someone you love wishing you a wonderful morning?&#8221;
The videos made by  loved ones are shown every morning to residents and have become part of a daily routine at the community. The technique is helping to ease the agitation of people with Alzheimer&#8217;s and dementia, according to the Hebrew Home.
<h2>Improving the Quality of Life for Those with Dementia</h2>
The program at the Hebrew Home is limited to people in early and moderate stages of dementia, who are still able to recognize their loved ones on the video and has started with residents who often refuse care or can be difficult to care for in the morning.
Geriatric psychiatrist Robert Abrams lauds the program, calling it &#8220;innovative and thoughtful.&#8221; He went on to say: &#8220;You&#8217;ve got a group of people with dementia who don&#8217;t really grasp the nature and purpose of their surroundings, or the circumstances that compelled them to be there. Consequently they&#8217;re alone and at sea, and feel frightened and even abandoned by family.&#8221;
Some experts caution that each and every Alzheimer&#8217;s patient is different, so the video technique being employed may not work for all people with dementia and Alzheimer&#8217;s.
Is this technique something you would try for your loved one? Have you had any success with this new method of communication? Share your stories with us in the comments below.
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Movie Inspires Alzheimer's Patients to Begin Day in New Way

A 2004 romantic comedy has inspired one assisted living community to change the way they communicate with their residents who have Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. Residents who have Alzheimer’s at the Hebrew Home at Riverdale, begin each day with a five minute video from a loved one letting them know who they are, […]

The benefits of sensory stimulation for someone living with Alzheimer&#8217;s disease cannot be underestimated. Studies have shown that keeping someone with dementia active and engaged promotes a sense of self worth and can even keep that person independent longer. Learn more about sensory stimulation and how you can make your own activity apron for a loved one.<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-32543" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2015/04/the-alzheimers-activity-apron-300x192.jpg" alt="The Alzheimer's Activity Apron" width="300" height="192" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2015/04/the-alzheimers-activity-apron-300x192.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2015/04/the-alzheimers-activity-apron.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
<h2>Benefits of Sensory Stimulation for People with Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
Sensory stimulation was developed in Europe in the 1960s and uses everyday objects to engage one or more of the five senses. It provides a way for people living with Alzheimer&#8217;s to explore a new environment in a safe way or see a familiar environment in a new way.
Sensory stimulation has been shown to not only bring enjoyment and fun to people living with Alzheimer&#8217;s but also to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-01-23/sensory-stimulation-alzheimers-patients/">fight anxiety and depression</a> while increasing social interaction. Sensory stimulation can also help people stay independent for longer, promote understanding and a sense of belonging as well as help people express how they are feeling.
Depending on the progression of dementia there are a number of sensory activities caregivers can do with their loved one. They include:
<ul>
<li>Gardening</li>
<li>Walking or hiking</li>
<li>Scrapbooking</li>
<li>Knitting</li>
<li>Painting</li>
<li>Woodwork</li>
<li>Puzzles and games</li>
<li>Cards</li>
<li>Music</li>
<li>Memory boxes</li>
<li>Fidget aprons</li>
</ul>
<h2>The Fidget Apron: A Unique Sensory Activity</h2>
One unique way to provide sensory stimulation for all stages of dementia is the fidget apron, a creative and unique idea that can engage and stimulate people living with Alzheimer&#8217;s.
The idea came to Kristy who runs <a href="http://hopefulthreads.blogspot.com/2013/07/july-2013-monthly-project-announcement.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Hopeful Threads</a>, a sewing business dedicated to provide sewed donations to people who need it most, from one of her blog readers who had been personally affected by dementia. She explained how a fidget apron utilized sensory stimulation and could help someone fighting a disease like Alzheimer&#8217;s or dementia. Kristy organized her readers to create their own fidget aprons and then donated the created aprons to people living with Alzheimer&#8217;s and dementia in her local area.
To <a href="http://www.fishsticksdesigns.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/FD_BusyHandsFidgetApron.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">make your own activity apron</a> you will need:
<ul>
<li>1.5 yards of cotton woven fabric</li>
<li>7&#8243; zipper and scrap fabrics</li>
<li>Ribbon</li>
<li>Trim</li>
<li>Key Rings</li>
<li>Buttons</li>
<li>Beads</li>
<li><a href="http://www.fishsticksdesigns.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/FD_BusyHandsFidgetApron.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Apron Sewing Pattern</a></li>
</ul>
While each fidget apron is different, the general idea is that a person can put the apron on and have a variety of activities, trinkets and charms within their reach. Some fidget aprons include zippers, braids, different textures and patterns and all are designed to engage the minds and fingers of someone living with Alzheimer&#8217;s.
Have you made an activity apron? If so, tell us about it! Did your loved one enjoy it? What types of fabrics, trinkets, and material did you use? 
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<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-05-27/montessori-method-dementia/" target="_self" rel="noopener noreferrer">Why the Montessori Method is Becoming a Popular Treatment for Dementia</a></li>
</ul>

The Alzheimer's Activity Apron

The benefits of sensory stimulation for someone living with Alzheimer’s disease cannot be underestimated. Studies have shown that keeping someone with dementia active and engaged promotes a sense of self worth and can even keep that person independent longer. Learn more about sensory stimulation and how you can make your own activity apron for a […]

A new drug that promises to slow cognitive decline is having great success in early clinical trials.<img class="size-medium wp-image-32506 alignright" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2015/04/new-alzheimers-treatment-could-reverse-brain-damage-300x192.jpg" alt="New Alzheimer's Treatment Could Reverse Brain Damage" width="300" height="192" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2015/04/new-alzheimers-treatment-could-reverse-brain-damage-300x192.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2015/04/new-alzheimers-treatment-could-reverse-brain-damage.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> 
Learn more about this drug, the studies that have been done to determine its success, and what will come next for the newest hope in Alzheimer&#8217;s treatment.
<h2>Alzheimer&#8217;s Treatment Exceeding Expectations in Early Trials</h2>
A new drug from Biogen Idec, a biotechnology firm, has <a href="http://www.cnbc.com/id/102521170" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">surpassed expectations in early drug trials</a> by slowing seemingly unstoppable cognitive decline. The drug, known as either BIIB037 or aducanumab, works to slow cognitive decline by reducing the amyloid plaques in the brains of people with dementia. Many researchers believe these plaques and tangles of beta amyloid actually cause the neurodegenerative disease.
The first study completed on the drug involved 166 participants and allowed researchers to evaluate dosage requirements and to evaluate the need for further studies on the drug. Researchers used PET imaging and found that the drug did help to remove amyloid from the brain. Participants who took the placebo had unchanged levels of plaque whereas patients who received the highest dose of the drug had a statistically significant reduction in brain plaque.
In addition to reducing amyloid plaque in the brain, researchers also found that the drug slowed cognitive decline when compared to participants taking the placebo. On one cognition test, researchers found that those who took the highest dose of the drug had a 71% reduction in decline.
<h2>Treatment Cautiously Inspires New Hope</h2>
The small size of the study leads many to question the reliability of the results, and a larger study will hopefully reveal if aducanumab will succeed where other amyloid attacking drugs have failed.
Biogen would like to recruit at least 1,000 participants for more testing by the end of the year to further understand the effect of the drug on the mind. For now, they are planning on moving forward into a late-stage study.
Another aspect of the drug that concerns some, are the side effects which included headaches and amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA) which can include swelling around the brain. Developers believe these side effects may be able to be managed, but more data will be needed as they progress in further studies.
Despite the small numbers, some researchers still have big hopes for the new drug treatment. Dr. Al Sandrock, Chief Medical Officer at Biogen, said:
<blockquote>&#8220;This is the first time an investigational drug for Alzheimer&#8217;s disease has demonstrated a statistically significant reduction on amyloid plaque as well as a statistically significant slowing of clinical impairment in patients with prodromal or mild disease.&#8221;</blockquote>
What do you think about the newest drug treatment from Biogen? Are you hopeful this drug may hold the cure for Alzheimer&#8217;s? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
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<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2-3-15-prostate-drug-helps-women-alzheimers" target="_self" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Challenges in Securing Funding for Drug Research</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/1-14-15-combo-pill-alzheimers" target="_self" rel="noopener noreferrer">FDA Approves Combo Pill for Alzheimer&#8217;s</a></li>
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New Alzheimer's Treatment Could Reverse Brain Damage

A new drug that promises to slow cognitive decline is having great success in early clinical trials. Learn more about this drug, the studies that have been done to determine its success, and what will come next for the newest hope in Alzheimer’s treatment. Alzheimer’s Treatment Exceeding Expectations in Early Trials A new drug from […]

The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a combination pill to treat people for moderate to severe Alzheimer&#8217;s disease. Learn more about this drug treatment and how it may be able to help your loved one living with Alzheimer&#8217;s. <img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/FDA-Approves-Combo-Pill-For-Alzheimers-300x200.jpg" alt="FDA Approves Combo Pill For Alzheimer&#039;s" width="300" height="200" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67765" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/FDA-Approves-Combo-Pill-For-Alzheimers-300x200.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/FDA-Approves-Combo-Pill-For-Alzheimers-768x512.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/FDA-Approves-Combo-Pill-For-Alzheimers.jpg 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
<h2>Using Drugs to Treat Alzheimer&#8217;s Disease</h2>
Alzheimer&#8217;s disease affects over 36 million people worldwide and there is no cure in sight. While doctors and researchers continue to encourage prevention, they are also working diligently to find a cure for people who have the disease. <a href="https://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/guide/alzheimers-disease-treatment-overview" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Drugs used to treat Alzheimer&#8217;s</a> are called cholinesterase inhibitors. These drugs have been shown to slow the progression of Alzheimer&#8217;s symptoms for about 6 to 12 months.
Different types of cholinesterase inhibitors have been approved for the different stages of Alzheimer&#8217;s, with one pill being approved for all four stages. Common side effects for all of the medications include vomiting, nausea, fatigue, insomnia, and weight loss.
<h2>The New Combo Pill</h2>
The FDA has now approved a <a href="https://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/news/20141229/combo-pill-alzheimers-disease" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">combination pill for people with moderate to severe Alzheimer&#8217;s</a> disease. The combination pill will be for people who are already taking both of medications which are included in the new pill. The pill is called Namzaric and combines memantine hydrochloride extended-release (also known as Namenda) and donepezil hydrocholoride (also known as Aricept).
Currently 70% of people on Namenda XR are also on Aricept. Aricept is the only FDA approved drug that is approved for use in all stages of Alzheimer&#8217;s. David Nicholson, phD and senior vice president of global brands R&amp;D for the drugmaker Actavis said, &#8220;Both Namenda XR and donepezil have proven efficacy and safety for the treatment of moderate to severe Alzheimer&#8217;s disease.&#8221; He went on to say that people who took the combo pill for Alzheimer&#8217;s have shown greater improvement than just taking donepizal (Aricept) alone.
Because the new drug combines two common Alzheimer&#8217;s medications, patients will take less pills. It will be available in a capsule form so the <a href="https://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/guide/alzheimers-disease-treatment-overview#1" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">medication can be sprinkled on food</a>. Namzaric is expected to be available in the United States this year.
What do you think about the new combo pill for Alzheimer&#8217;s? Would you give your loved one the new combo pill? Please share in the comments below.
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FDA Approves Combo Pill for Alzheimer's

The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a combination pill to treat people for moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease. Learn more about this drug treatment and how it may be able to help your loved one living with Alzheimer’s.  Using Drugs to Treat Alzheimer’s Disease Alzheimer’s disease affects over 36 million people worldwide and there […]

The ancient Chinese method of acupuncture has been used for thousands of years throughout the world. It is a widely accepted practice in the West that has been shown to help treat a long list of ailments.
<img class="alignright size-full wp-image-28686" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2014/11/treating-alzheimers-symptoms-with-acupuncture.png" alt="Treating Alzheimer's Symptoms with Acupuncture" width="300" height="217" />
A number of studies have shown that acupuncture can also have a positive effect on Alzheimer&#8217;s disease, improving mood as well as cognitive skills. Learn more about acupuncture and what it can do to help people living with Alzheimer&#8217;s.
<h2>What is Acupuncture?</h2>
For the last 2,500 years, acupuncture has been used to treat a variety of ailments. The ancient Chinese practice theorizes that there are <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/acupuncture/article.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">patterns of energy called Qi</a>, that flow through the body and are essential for good health. When Qi is interrupted, it is believed that disease can occur. Acupuncturists feel they can fix the disruption by inserting needles in specific locations to help restore the correct energy flow and treat the disease.
Acupuncture is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration in the U.S. and is now widely practiced in the West. Although there have been many studies to evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture, many are inconclusive because of the strong possibility for a placebo effect. However, promising results have been reported when acupuncture has been used for treatment for a variety of ailments including:
<ul>
<li>Nausea and vomiting following chemotherapy and/or operations</li>
<li>Addiction</li>
<li>Stroke rehabilitation</li>
<li>Headaches</li>
<li>Menstrual cramps</li>
<li>Fibromyalgia</li>
<li>Osteoarthritis</li>
<li>Low back pain</li>
<li>Carpal tunnel syndrome</li>
<li>Asthma</li>
</ul>
<h2>Positive Effects of Acupuncture on Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
Two separate studies have shown that acupuncture may be able to help people with Alzheimer&#8217;s. In both studies, researchers found that acupuncture could improve the lives of people with the disease by <a href="http://www.acupuncturetoday.com/mpacms/at/article.php?id=27681" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">increasing verbal and motor skills</a> and improving their mood and cognitive function.
The study conducted at <a href="http://www.acupuncture-online.com/alzheimers.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wellesley College in 2000 concluded that acupuncture could treat anxiety and depression</a> for people who have Alzheimer&#8217;s. The study involved 11 participants who were diagnosed with Alzheimer&#8217;s or Vascular Dementia. Participants received acupuncture treatments 2-3 times per week for three months. Following treatment, researchers evaluated the mood of participants and found substantial increases in mood, energy and pain from other ailments caused by aging. Dr. Nancy Emerson Lombardo of Wellesley College and lead researcher encouraged caregivers and patients to give acupuncture a try, saying:
<blockquote>&#8220;I think people should check it out. Besides anxiety and depression, they are likely to have other issues such as pain that can be helped with acupuncture.&#8221;</blockquote>
A second study was completed at the University of Hong Kong in 2000. This study administered acupuncture treatments to eight patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer&#8217;s. Participants received acupuncture for 7 days in a row, followed by 3 days of rest for one month. The research team concluded that after treatments were finished, participants shows significant improvement in memory and attention, as well as increased motor and verbal skills.
While neither study provides conclusive evidence that acupuncture can definitively treat Alzheimer&#8217;s, their studies show promising results and lay the foundation for longer and more controlled studies which could drastically improve the lives of people living with Alzheimer&#8217;s.
Their results have launched more research in evaluating the effects of acupuncture on the brain, which confirmed that acupuncture activated regions of the brain that were impaired in people who had Alzheimer&#8217;s, giving more credence to the <a href="http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/cog/aetr/2008/00000033/F0020001/art00002" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">theory that acupuncture can have a potential positive effect on memory</a>.
Have you or a loved one used acupuncture or any other alternative treatment for Alzheimer&#8217;s? Share your story in the comments below.
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Treating Alzheimer's Symptoms with Acupuncture

The ancient Chinese method of acupuncture has been used for thousands of years throughout the world. It is a widely accepted practice in the West that has been shown to help treat a long list of ailments. A number of studies have shown that acupuncture can also have a positive effect on Alzheimer’s disease, improving mood […]

There is nothing funny about Alzheimer&#8217;s disease. Though, research suggests laughter can affect Alzheimer&#8217;s prevention, help Alzheimer&#8217;s caregivers, and improve the quality of life for those afflicted by the disease. Is laughter really the best medicine? Learn more.
<img class="alignright size-full wp-image-27759" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2014/08/the-serious-benefits-of-laughter-for-alzheimers.jpg" alt="The Serious Benefits of Laughter for Alzheimer's" width="300" height="217" />
There is currently no cure for Alzheimer&#8217;s, <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/alzheimers-statistics/">a disease which 36 million people live with daily</a>. As researchers continue to search for a solution, more emphasis is being placed on prevention of the disease rather than treatment. One way to prevent Alzheimer&#8217;s is to improve the health of the brain by looking for <a href="http://www.laughways.com/pdf/Alzheimers_and_humor.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">new challenges which stimulate growth</a>.
<h2>Laughter for Alzheimer&#8217;s Prevention</h2>
Playing, laughing and being active while accepting new challenges is a great way to keep the brain engaged and grow new brain cells, to prevent Alzheimer&#8217;s.
Researchers have also found that <a href="http://theadplan.com/alzheimersdietblog/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/why-laughter-is-good-for-your-health-in-Alzheimers-prevention.jpg" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">laughter has a wide range of health benefits</a> which aid in Alzheimer&#8217;s prevention. Benefits of laughter include:
<ul>
<li>Heart disease prevention</li>
<li>Lower stress hormones</li>
<li>Ease of anxiety and fear</li>
<li>Increase in social interaction</li>
<li>Lower blood sugar levels</li>
<li>Strengthened immune system</li>
</ul>
<h2>The Benefits of Laughter for Caregivers</h2>
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-05-22/balance-life-as-caregiver/">87% of Alzheimer&#8217;s patients are being cared for by caregivers</a> at home. The sacrifices Alzheimer&#8217;s caregivers make are great, and range from less time for family and friends and lost income due to missed work, to failing to take care of themselves.
With all the stress that comes with caregiving, it is crucial that <a href="http://www.provisionliving.com/this-powerful-alzheimers-treatment-tool-is-just-a-funny-moment-away/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">caregivers maintain a good sense of humor</a>. Laughter <a href="http://www.nextavenue.org/article/2012-11/why-laughter-crucial-caregivers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">can help caregivers cope</a> by:
<ul>
<li>Relieving stress</li>
<li>Promoting mental health</li>
<li>Strengthening family relationships</li>
<li>Strengthening the immune systems so caregivers can stay healthy</li>
<li><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/kathryn-haslanger/caregivers-laughter_b_856368.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Easing tension and lightening</a> the mood</li>
<li>Allowing them to enjoy the moment</li>
</ul>
<h2>The Benefits of Laughter for Patients</h2>
People who live with Alzheimer&#8217;s and related types of dementia can suffer from confusion, frustration and depression. These strong emotions can bring anything from negative feelings to anxiety, which can often lead to behavioral problems and even aggression.
Laughter can help alleviate some of these symptoms, improving the quality of life for those with Alzheimer&#8217;s, by:
<ul>
<li>Allowing them to redirect negative emotions</li>
<li>Easing symptoms of depression</li>
<li>Tempering signs of aggression</li>
<li>Reducing stress</li>
<li>Improving social interaction</li>
</ul>
How has laughter benefited you or your loved one with Alzheimer&#8217;s? Share your story about how laughter has affected you or your family in the comments below.
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Laughter for Alzheimer's Prevention

The Serious Benefits of Laughter for Alzheimer's

There is nothing funny about Alzheimer’s disease. Though, research suggests laughter can affect Alzheimer’s prevention, help Alzheimer’s caregivers, and improve the quality of life for those afflicted by the disease. Is laughter really the best medicine? Learn more. There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, a disease which 36 million people live with daily. As researchers continue to […]

I have to admit, when I was asked to write a post about turmeric, I had no idea how much it has been studied in terms of helping with everything from arthritis to migraines to Alzheimer&#8217;s!
<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Super-Food-Lets-Talk-Tumeric.jpg" alt="Super Food: Let&#039;s Talk Tumeric" width="300" height="217" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67918" />
Turmeric, a member of the ginger family, is often found in curries and other spicy dishes from India, Asia, and the Middle East. The spice contains a compound called curcumin that has been used by <a href="https://nccih.nih.gov/health/ayurveda/introduction.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ayurveda</a> practitioners for centuries to treat a variety of ailments.
<h2>Sampling of Studies</h2>
In 2012, a <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3665200/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">study</a> published in AYU, An International Quarterly Journal of Research in Ayurveda, reported on three Alzheimer&#8217;s patients exhibiting irritability, anxiety, and agitation among other symptoms. Findings indicated that behavioral issues had improved significantly after being treated with less than a gram of turmeric daily for a period of three months. The study concluded turmeric, when combined with routine therapy, increased quality of life and improved performance of activities of daily living in patients studied.
Several years ago, ethnobotanist James A. Duke, Ph.D., published a comprehensive summary of over 700 turmeric studies that support the Ayurveda research. This herbal antidote was found to counteract symptoms of Alzheimer&#8217;s by blocking formation of beta-amyloid, the sticky protein substance believed to have a hand in cell and tissue loss indicative of an Alzheimer&#8217;s brain. In addition, turmeric reduced inflammation of neural tissue associated with the disease.
The Journal of Neuroscience had also previously published a <a href="http://www.jneurosci.org/content/21/21/8370.full?sid=2127a22d-5ee1-430f-b780-bb05fc1a24e6" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">study</a> that supports the AYU findings, calling the alternative treatment promising. Tests conducted on mice suggested that the herb did indeed reduce plaques in the brain.
<h2>Please Pass the Turmeric</h2>
So the logical question is, how do we get turmeric into our diet? The most obvious way, of course, is to enjoy curry dishes as often as possible. Also consider adding a bit to your <a href="http://www.aplaceformom.com/blog/2013-2-21healthy-smoothies-for-seniors/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smoothie</a> or whipping up some turmeric tea. We found the following <a href="https://www.drweil.com/diet-nutrition/nutrition/turmeric-tea-benefits/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">recipe</a> on Dr. Andrew Weil&#8217;s website. He suggests experimenting with ingredients until you find a pleasing balance of flavors:
Dr. Weil&#8217;s Turmeric Tea:
<ol>
<li>Bring four cups of water to a boil.</li>
<li>Add one teaspoon of ground turmeric and reduce to a simmer for 10 minutes.</li>
<li>Strain the tea through a fine sieve into a cup. Add honey, ginger, and/or lemon to taste.</li>
</ol>
Ground turmeric is commonly used, but Weil suggests experimenting with freshly grated turmeric for a little added zing. Supplements are also available in tablet and soft gel form and can typically be found wherever vitamins are purchased.
<h2>The Debate on Alternative Treatments</h2>
Efficacy of natural treatments is a hot topic, and no matter which side you&#8217;re on, this discussion often results in intense debate. As with <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/resource/2013-05-29/coconut-oil-for-alzheimers/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">coconut oil</a>, for everything you read that touts its effectiveness, you&#8217;ll likely find something that disputes that claim.
One statistic that bodes well for this herbal treatment is that India has one of the world&#8217;s lowest rates of Alzheimer&#8217;s. Could that be directly correlated to the country&#8217;s high consumption of turmeric? No one knows, but there are ongoing trials studying this very subject, and it&#8217;s likely we&#8217;ll be hearing more. Until then, always discuss any potential treatments with your physician. Even natural, alternative treatments can cause negative interactions with prescribed medications.
What are your thoughts on herbal or other alternative treatments?  We look forward to hearing your opinions!
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<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-07-02/cinnamon-prevents-alzheimers/">Why Cinnamon May Hold Secrets to Alzheimer&#8217;s</a></li>
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Super Food: Let’s Talk Turmeric

I have to admit, when I was asked to write a post about turmeric, I had no idea how much it has been studied in terms of helping with everything from arthritis to migraines to Alzheimer’s! Turmeric, a member of the ginger family, is often found in curries and other spicy dishes from India, Asia, […]

Music is understood to be a great way to break through to dementia patients, but do you know why? A new study shows us how music helps those suffering with Alzheimer&#8217;s disease. Learn more.
<img class="alignright size-full wp-image-5829" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2013/11/5-reasons-why-music-boosts-brain-activity.gif" alt="5 Reasons Why Music Boosts Brain Activity" width="300" height="219" />
Music has been known to affect those with dementia and Alzheimer&#8217;s, but why it has an effect on these patients has not always been clear &#8211; until now.
<h2 style="text-align: left">Music Helps Dementia Patients Recall Memories and Emotions</h2>
A recent study shows that dementia and Alzheimer&#8217;s patients can recall memories and emotions, and have enhanced mental performance after singing classic hits and show tunes from movies and musicals &mdash; a breakthrough in understanding how <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-06-04/music-therapy-for-dementia/">music affects those with dementia and Alzheimer&#8217;s</a>.
Researchers determined the effect music has on dementia patients, by leading half of the participants through selected songs while the other half listened to the music being played. After the musical treatment, all participants took cognitive ability and life satisfaction tests. which showed how participants scored significantly better when being lead through songs, rather than only listening.
Here are five reasons why researchers believe that music boosts brain activity:
1. Music evokes emotions that bring memories.
Music can evoke emotion in even the most advanced of Alzheimer&#8217;s patients. Neurologist <a href="http://theweek.com/article/index/226809/how-music-improves-the-memory-of-dementia-patients" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Oliver Sacks</a> says that, &#8220;Music evokes emotion, and emotion can bring with it memory&#8230; it brings back the feeling of life when nothing else can.&#8221; By pairing music with every day activities, patients can develop a rhythm that helps them to the recall the memory of that activity, improving cognitive ability over time.
2. Musical aptitude and appreciation are two of the last remaining abilities in dementia patients.
Linda Maguire, <a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/health-news/singing-boosts-brain-activity-in-alzheimers-patients-scientists-say-8933021.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">lead author on the study</a> wrote, &#8220;Musical aptitude and music appreciation are two of the last remaining abilities in patients with Alzheimer&#8217;s.&#8221; Because these two abilities remain long after other abilities have passed, music is an excellent way to reach beyond the disease and reach the person.
3. Music can bring emotional and physical closeness.
In the later stages of dementia, patients often <a href="http://www.alzfdn.org/EducationandCare/musictherapy.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">lose the ability to share emotions</a> with caregivers. Through music, as long as they are ambulatory, they can often dance. Dancing can lead to hugs, kisses and touching which brings security and memories.
4. Singing is engaging.
The singing sessions in the study engaged more than just the brain and the area related to singing. As singing activated the left side of the brain, listening to music sparked activity in the right and watching the class activated visual areas of the brain. With so much of the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-06/stimulating-activities-for-alzheimers-patients/">brain being stimulated</a>, the patients were exercising more mind power than usual.
5. Music can shift mood, manage stress and stimulate positive interactions.
The <a href="http://www.alzfdn.org/EducationandCare/musictherapy.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Alzheimer&#8217;s Foundation of America</a> has an entire web page dedicated to music therapy in Alzheimer&#8217;s patients. They say that, &#8220;When used appropriately, music can shift mood, manage stress-induced agitation, stimulate positive interactions, facilitate cognitive function and coordinate motor movements.&#8221; This is because music requires little to no mental processing, so singing music does not require the cognitive function that is not present in most dementia patients.
<h2 style="text-align: left">Which Musicals or Movies Work Best?</h2>
Getting a loved one with<a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-02-13/best-movies-for-alzheimers-patients/"> dementia or Alzheimer&#8217;s  to engage with music and movies</a> may depend on which  genre they enjoy the most. But, the suggestions below can help you get started:
<ul>
<li>The Sound of Music</li>
<li>When You Wish Upon a Star (from Pinocchio)</li>
<li>Somewhere Over the Rainbow (from The Wizard of Oz)</li>
</ul>
Dr. Jane Flinn, a researcher from George Mason University says that the study should encourage caregivers.
<blockquote>
&#8220;The message is: do not give up on these men and women. You want to be performing things that engage them, and singing is cheap, effortless and engaging.&#8221;
</blockquote>
Do you or a loved one have any experience with music therapy for dementia? Share your story in the comments below.
Related Articles:
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<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-06-04/music-therapy-for-dementia/">Music Therapy For Dementia: Awakening Memories in Alzheimer&#8217;s Patients</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-06/stimulating-activities-for-alzheimers-patients/">10 Stimulating Activities for Alzheimer&#8217;s Patients</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-02-13/best-movies-for-alzheimers-patients/">Best Movies and TV Shows for Alzheimer&#8217;s Patients</a></li>
</ul>

5 Reasons Why Music Boosts Brain Activity

Music is understood to be a great way to break through to dementia patients, but do you know why? A new study shows us how music helps those suffering with Alzheimer’s disease. Learn more. Music has been known to affect those with dementia and Alzheimer’s, but why it has an effect on these patients has not always been clear – until now. […]

Cinnamon has long been used to fight bacterial and fungal infections, as well as improve reproductive functions, treat indigestion, migraines and cramping, in addition to helping regulate insulin levels for diabetics. Recent studies suggest that it may also have anti-Alzheimer&#8217;s disease properties. <img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Can-Cinnamon-Prevent-Alzheimers-300x244.jpg" alt="Can Cinnamon Prevent Alzheimer&#039;s?" width="300" height="244" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67701" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Can-Cinnamon-Prevent-Alzheimers-300x244.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Can-Cinnamon-Prevent-Alzheimers-768x625.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Can-Cinnamon-Prevent-Alzheimers.jpg 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Here is a closer look at the claim and what it means for the future of Alzheimer&#8217;s treatment.
<h2>Anti-Alzheimer&#8217;s Properties in Cinnamon</h2>
Alzheimer&#8217;s is growing at epidemic proportions. With diagnosis rates expected to triple in upcoming years and no cure in sight, researchers are focusing on finding ways to prevent the neurodegenerative disease. Recent studies have shown that the common spice, <a href="https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/05/130523143737.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">cinnamon, may be able to help prevent Alzheimer&#8217;s</a>.
There are two compounds found in cinnamon that have an inhibitory effect on a protein in the brain called tau. These compounds, cinnamaldehyde and epicatechin, can possibly prevent the aggregation of the tau protein, which is a hallmark of Alzheimer&#8217;s. Tau proteins can form clumps or tangles in the brain which researchers think can be the cause of the disease. The compounds found in cinnamon have been shown to prevent these clumps from occurring, and thus, possibly preventing Alzheimer&#8217;s.
Roshni Graves, adjunct professor at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and researcher on a study of <a href="https://www.huffpost.com/entry/cinnamon-alzheimers-cinnamaldehyde-epicatechin_n_3333403" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">the effects of cinnamon on Alzheimer&#8217;s</a> explains the relationship like this:
<blockquote>&#8220;Take, for example, sunburn, a form of oxidative damage. If you wore a hat, you could protect your face and head from the oxidation. In a sense, this cinnamaldehyde is like a cap.&#8221;</blockquote>
<h3>The Connection Between Alzheimer&#8217;s, Diabetes, and Cinnamon</h3>
The <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-10-28/alzheimers-newest-form-of-diabetes/">strong connection between Alzheimer&#8217;s and diabetes is no secret</a>. With almost 70% of people with type II diabetes ultimately developing Alzheimer&#8217;s, some researchers believe Alzheimer&#8217;s may be a type of diabetes. It is interesting to note that cinnamon has been shown to have positive effects on those with type II diabetes by lowering their blood sugar. One recent study found that participants who had <a href="https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/cinnamon-and-benefits-for-diabetes" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">diabetes lowered their blood sugar</a> by up to 24% by consuming 1/2 to 2 teaspoons of cinnamon for 40 days.
<h3>Adding More Cinnamon in Your Diet</h3>
While researchers caution that more research needs to be done before using cinnamon for Alzheimer&#8217;s prevention, it can&#8217;t hurt to incorporate it into your diet. Here are a few ways you can add it into your daily routine:
<ul>
<li>Put cinnamon in your morning coffee or tea</li>
<li>Take cinnamon in a capsule (two 500 mg capsules are recommended)</li>
<li>Put cinnamon on your toast, cereal, or oatmeal</li>
<li>Add cinnamon to baked or raw fruit</li>
</ul>
Have you or a loved one taken a cinnamon supplement and experienced its health benefits? Share your story with us in the comments below.
Related Articles:
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<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-09-18/spices-that-heal-alzheimers/">Alzheimer&#8217;s Prevention: Spices That Heal </a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-10-15/superfoods-that-fight-alzheimers/">Memory Boosting Superfoods That Fight Alzheimer&#8217;s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-11-21/ashwagandha-for-alzheimers/">A Natural Way to Treat Alzheimer&#8217;s: Ashwagandha</a></li>
</ul>

Why Cinnamon May Hold Secrets to Alzheimer's Prevention

Cinnamon has long been used to fight bacterial and fungal infections, as well as improve reproductive functions, treat indigestion, migraines and cramping, in addition to helping regulate insulin levels for diabetics. Recent studies suggest that it may also have anti-Alzheimer’s disease properties.  Here is a closer look at the claim and what it means for the […]

A new study suggests that a certain type of antidepressant may prevent Alzheimer&#8217;s disease. While the results of the study are certainly promising there is more work to be done before the antidepressant will be prescribed for Alzheimer&#8217;s prevention. Learn more about the pros and cons of taking an antidepressant for Alzheimer&#8217;s and why some scientists are hesitant to prescribe them.
<img class="alignright size-full wp-image-6339" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2014/05/the-pros-and-cons-of-taking-antidepressants-for-alzheimers.png" alt="The Pros and Cons of Taking Antidepressants for Alzheimer's" width="300" height="217" />
<h2>How Antidepressants Work</h2>
An antidepressant is a drug used to treat depression and other conditions ranging from anxiety disorders to attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). There are several classes of antidepressants and each class uses a different method to treat the patient. However, <a href="http://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/depression/questions/how-do-antidepressants-work.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">most antidepressants work by changing the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain </a>to achieve the desired balance. A new study suggests that one type of antidepressant has the potential to prevent Alzheimer&#8217;s by driving down the production of beta-amyloid proteins, a protein commonly thought to cause the disease.
<h2>Preventing Alzheimer&#8217;s Disease with Antidepressants</h2>
A recent study by the University of Pennsylvania and Washington University Medical School found that the <a href="http://www.latimes.com/science/sciencenow/la-sci-sn-alzheimers-antidepressant-20140513-story.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">antidepressant citalopram lowered the production of beta amyloid proteins</a> in both mice and in healthy humans. Results were published in the <a href="http://stm.sciencemag.org/content/6/236/236re4.abstract">Science Translational Medicine</a> journal. The antidepressant, commonly known as Celexa, reduced the production of beta-amyloid proteins by 38% over a 28 day regimen.
This study could potentially be groundbreaking when it comes to preventing Alzheimer&#8217;s. The good news for those at risk for the disease is that Celexa is:
<ul>
<li>Widely used and accessible</li>
<li>Simple to take</li>
<li>Relatively inexpensive</li>
</ul>
<h2>A Word of Caution</h2>
While study results are certainly promising, some scientists are <a href="http://www.dallasnews.com/lifestyles/health-and-fitness/health/20140514-study-finds-that-antidepressant-could-help-prevent-alzheimer-s-disease.ece" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">cautioning against using antidepressants to prevent Alzheimer&#8217;s</a>. Dr. Lon Schneider, Alzheimer&#8217;s specialist at the University of Southern California says that it is too early to recommend anyone begin taking Celexa to prevent Alzheimer&#8217;s.
Before rushing out to get your prescription there are a few things to keep in mind:
<ul>
<li>Results are based on the theory that beta-amyloid proteins cause Alzheimer&#8217;s</li>
<li>Other <a href="http://consumer.healthday.com/cognitive-health-information-26/alzheimer-s-news-20/could-certain-antidepressants-help-slow-alzheimer-s-687840.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">studies have found increased cognitive impairment and cardiac toxicity</a> when using Celexa</li>
<li>It is not clear if the results would be the same if using a lesser dosage</li>
</ul>
Would you take an antidepressant like Celexa to prevent Alzheimer&#8217;s? Why or why not? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
Related Articles:
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<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-07/beta-amyloid-wrong-protein/">Has Alzheimer&#8217;s Research Been Wrong for 20 Years?</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-07/beta-amyloid-wrong-protein/">Better Alzheimer&#8217;s Prevention With Early Detection </a></li>
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</ul>

The Pros and Cons of Taking Antidepressants for Alzheimer's

A new study suggests that a certain type of antidepressant may prevent Alzheimer’s disease. While the results of the study are certainly promising there is more work to be done before the antidepressant will be prescribed for Alzheimer’s prevention. Learn more about the pros and cons of taking an antidepressant for Alzheimer’s and why some […]

5.2 million Americans live with Alzheimer&#8216;s disease. There is no cure for the neurodegenerative disease but researchers are always looking for improve the quality of life of people with Alzheimer&#8217;s disease and other types of dementia. A new study from The Ohio State University shows that spending time with horses can actually help improve the quality of life of people with dementia by helping them both mentally and physically.
<img class="alignright size-full wp-image-6212" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2014/05/horses-may-improve-quality-of-life-for-alzheimers-patients.jpg" alt="Horses May Improve Quality of Life for Alzheimer's Patients" width="300" height="217" />
<h2>Equine Therapy and Dementia</h2>
While the main symptoms of Alzheimer&#8217;s and dementia patients revolve around memory loss, the disease can also bring significant personality changes making normally happy people irritable or withdrawn. In a recent study published in <a href="http://www.ingentaconnect.com/search/article?option2=author&amp;value2=Darrough&amp;sortDescending=true&amp;sortField=prism_publicationDate&amp;pageSize=10&amp;index=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Anthrozoos</a>, researchers from <a href="http://news.osu.edu/news/2014/05/05/caring-for-horses-eases-symptoms-of-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ohio State</a> partnered with the National Church Residences Center for Senior Health to study<a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/05/06/horses-alzheimers-_n_5273331.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> the effects of equine therapy on the mood of dementia patients</a>.
The researchers worked with 16 patients divided into two groups, with one group visiting the <a href="http://www.fieldofdreamsequine.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Field of Dreams Equine Education Center </a>once a week to spend time with the horses, and one not visiting the center.
In one month, researchers noticed significant differences between the two groups. The group that visited the therapy center could be seen smiling,  laughing and speaking with the horses, and the horses&#8217; positive effects on the group lasted late into the day. Study author Holly Dabelko-Schoeny said, &#8220;The experience immediately lifted their mood and we saw a connection to fewer incidents of negative behavior.&#8221;
<h2>Other Factors Contributing To Results</h2>
Although the <a href="http://www.redorbit.com/news/health/1113139164/alzheimer-s-disease-patients-relief-horse-therapy-050614/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">effects of the horses on Alzheimer&#8217;s patients&#8217; moods</a> were clearly seen, more research needs to be done to establish the direct correlation between the two. For instance, the group that visited the horses spent more time outside in a peaceful rural environment than the group that did not. Also, they were more physically active during their time with the horses than the group who did not receive equine therapy. Both factors could have significantly contributed to the improved mood of patients.
The study does not proclaim to be a treatment method for patients, but stresses the importance of helping dementia patients in the moment. Dabelko-Schoeny said,
<blockquote>&#8220;Our focus is on the &#8216;now.&#8217;What can we do to make them feel better and enjoy themselves right now? Even if they don&#8217;t remember it later, how can we help in this moment?&#8221;</blockquote>
Have you or a loved one had a positive experience with equine therapy? We&#8217;d love to hear your story. Please share your experience with us in the comments below.
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<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-05-17/alzheimers-pet-therapy/">How Can Pets Benefit Alzheimer&#8217;s Patients</a></li>
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Horses May Improve Quality of Life for Alzheimer’s Patients

Horses May Improve Quality of Life for Alzheimer's Patients

5.2 million Americans live with Alzheimer‘s disease. There is no cure for the neurodegenerative disease but researchers are always looking for improve the quality of life of people with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. A new study from The Ohio State University shows that spending time with horses can actually help improve the quality […]

Rising health care costs in the United States have led seniors affected by Alzheimer&#8217;s to travel to other countries for affordable, resort-style treatment. But is that treatment better than what they&#8217;d receive at home? <img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67822" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/leaving-the-us-for-alzheimers-care-300x300.jpg" alt="Leaving the U.S. for Alzheimer's Care" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/leaving-the-us-for-alzheimers-care-300x300.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/leaving-the-us-for-alzheimers-care-150x150.jpg 150w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/leaving-the-us-for-alzheimers-care-768x768.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/leaving-the-us-for-alzheimers-care.jpg 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
In the United States, the financial costs of Alzheimer&#8217;s are staggering. According to the <a href="https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/facts-figures" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Alzheimer&#8217;s Association</a>, out-of-pocket costs for Alzheimer&#8217;s care total $34 billion. When you add Medicare, Medicaid and other sources, the total cost to the nation comes to around $203 billion.
It&#8217;s no surprise that seniors and their families are looking for more affordable options for Alzheimer&#8217;s care. Many have found those options in foreign countries.
<h2>Affordable Alzheimer&#8217;s Care Abroad</h2>
The organization <a href="https://patientsbeyondborders.com/medical-tourism-statistics-facts" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Patients Beyond Borders</a> estimates that 900,000 Americans traveled abroad for treatment in 2013. On average, patients worldwide spent between $3,000 and 5,000 (USD) per visit. That includes all costs related to medical care, inpatient stay and accommodations, cross-border travel and local transport.
Known as &#8220;medical tourism,&#8221; the search for cost-effective health care in other countries has taken many Alzheimer&#8217;s patients to Asian countries, including Thailand and the Philippines.
<h2>Alzheimer&#8217;s Care in Asia</h2>
According to the Associated Press, places like Thailand&#8217;s <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baan_Kamlangchay">Baan Khamlangchai</a> attracts Alzheimer&#8217;s patients from around the world. It offers a peaceful setting, surrounded by mountains, and one-on-one care that many nursing homes simply can&#8217;t afford due to staff shortages and wage cuts.
The cost to live in an individual home on the facility&#8217;s grounds is around $3,800 a month. <a href="https://www.genworth.com/dam/Americas/US/PDFs/Consumer/corporate/131168_031813_Executive%20Summary.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Genworth Financial</a> reports that the average cost for round-the-clock care in a private room at a nursing home in the U.S. equals around $7,500 a month.
Along with personal medical care, the Thai facility takes residents to local markets, temples and restaurants, providing a rotation of three caretakers for each patient per day.
In the Philippines, Alzheimer&#8217;s sufferers can receive treatment for around $1,500 to $3,500 a month. Around 100 Americans currently receive care in the Philippines. More nursing care facilities, along with a marketing campaign, are planned for 2014.
<h2>Displacing Seniors With Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
<a href="https://www.heraldsun.com.au/travel/travel-news/alzheimers-patients-travel-to-thailand-and-philippines-to-stay-in-resorts-as-cost-of-care-rises-in-the-west/news-story/e62cd4e65e26ea598b140f8c6731a098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Australia&#8217;s Herald Sun</a> cites disagreement among experts on the benefits of seeking Alzheimer&#8217;s care abroad. Some argue that quality of care, no matter the location, comes first, while others stress the importance of keeping Alzheimer&#8217;s patients in familiar surroundings.
At home, friends, family and neighbors are close by to help support early memories and a familiar language and culture. However, as Alzheimer&#8217;s progresses, people with Alzheimer&#8217;s can adjust to a new setting, some experts say. How they&#8217;re treated and how their disease is accommodated makes the difference.
<h2>The Future of Foreign Alzheimer&#8217;s Care</h2>
The Alzheimer&#8217;s Association estimates that by 2025 the number of adults over age 65 with Alzheimer&#8217;s will grow to 7.1 million. That&#8217;s a 40 percent increase over the 5 million seniors afflicted today. Projections show that nearly <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-12-11/alzheimers-global-epidemic-by-2050/">13.8 million seniors will have Alzheimer&#8217;s by 2050</a>.
Until a medical breakthrough or a resolution in treatment costs, many seniors and their families may look to the rest of the world for Alzheimer&#8217;s care.
Do you know any seniors who have traveled abroad for Alzheimer&#8217;s treatment? Please share your story below.
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<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-12-27/how-is-alzheimers-treated/" target="_self" rel="noopener noreferrer">How is Alzheimer&#8217;s Treated?</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-12-19/research-spending-vs-annual-care-costs/" target="_self" rel="noopener noreferrer">Alzheimer&#8217;s Research Spending vs. Annual Care Costs</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-01-03/resolve-to-prevent-alzheimers-in-2014/" target="_self" rel="noopener noreferrer">Resolve to Prevent Alzheimer&#8217;s in 2014</a></li>
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Leaving the U.S. for Alzheimer's Care

Rising health care costs in the United States have led seniors affected by Alzheimer’s to travel to other countries for affordable, resort-style treatment. But is that treatment better than what they’d receive at home? In the United States, the financial costs of Alzheimer’s are staggering. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, out-of-pocket costs for Alzheimer’s care […]

When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer&#8217;s the response can be overwhelming and leave us asking, &#8220;What now? Where do we go from here?&#8221; While there is no cure for Alzheimer&#8217;s, symptoms can often be treated and the progression of the disease can be slowed. Current Alzheimer&#8217;s treatment options focus on prevention and addressing underlying issues affiliated with Alzheimer&#8217;s such as diabetes and heart disease treatment, cognitive training, and changes in diet and exercise.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-is-Alzheimers-Treated-300x200.jpg" alt="How is Alzheimer&#039;s Treated" width="300" height="200" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67788" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-is-Alzheimers-Treated-300x200.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-is-Alzheimers-Treated-768x512.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-is-Alzheimers-Treated.jpg 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
<h2>Treated with Drugs</h2>
The United States Food and Drug Administration <a href="https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/research_progress/treatment-horizon" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">(FDA) has approved five medications</a> to treat symptoms of Alzheimer&#8217;s. These drugs are:
<ul>
<li>Donepezil</li>
<li>Galantamine</li>
<li>Tacrine</li>
<li>Rivastigmine</li>
<li>Memantine</li>
</ul>
The first four drugs listed are cholinesterase inhibitors, which work to protect a key neurotransmitter attacked by Alzheimer&#8217;s Disease. The fifth drug, memantine, regulates the activity of a chemical messenger that helps with learning and memory. It is important to note that the approved Alzheimer&#8217;s drugs are effective for six to twelve months for <a href="https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/research_progress/treatment-horizon">half of the patients</a> who take them.
<h2>Treated with Sensory Therapy</h2>
Another common form of Alzheimer&#8217;s treatment focuses on <a href="https://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/guide/alzheimers-disease-therapy-options#1">sensory therapy</a>. This would include <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/art-therapy-for-alzheimers/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">art therapy</a>, <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-11-13/why-music-boosts-brain-activity-in-dementia-patients/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">music therapy</a>, and even <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-09-25/poetry-therapy-for-alzheimers-caregivers/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">poetry therapy</a> which might help trigger memories and allow patients to reconnect with loved ones, even momentarily. Often, sensory is the last cognitive function that Alzheimer&#8217;s patients will lose. Because of this, sensory therapies can be an effective way to communicate while strengthening cognitive function.
<h2>Alternative Therapies</h2>
As researchers continue to search for a cure, many patients and their families are turning to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-12-05/alternative-treatments-for-dementia/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">alternative therapies to slow the disease</a>. Some of these alternative treatments are showing great promise in treating symptoms of Alzheimer&#8217;s. They include: 
<ul>
<li>Blood pressure medications</li>
<li>Diabetes treatments</li>
<li>Rheumatoid Arthritis drugs</li>
<li>Cholesterol medications</li>
</ul>
<h2>Clinical Trials</h2>
With no actual cure for this degenerative disease, researchers are looking for <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/clinical-trials/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">willing participants for clinical trials</a>. The cure to Alzheimer&#8217;s most likely lies in these trials. Clinical trials are one effective way for researchers to detect, treat, and ultimately eradicate Alzheimer&#8217;s and dementia. Participants are needed in studies across the country to test both pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments. To find out more about participating in a trial, visit <a href="http://www.alz.org/research/clinical_trials/find_clinical_trials_trialmatch.asp" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">TrialMatch</a> to find a trial that may be the right fit for you and your loved ones. 
Which Alzheimer&#8217;s treatments have worked best for your loved one? 
<div>Related Articles:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-dementia-research-centers-organizations/">Alzheimer&#8217;s Disease Research Centers &amp; Organizations</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/difference-between-alzheimers-and-dementia/">Difference Between Alzheimer&#8217;s and Dementia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/stages-of-alzheimers-disease/">Stages of Alzheimer&#8217;s Disease</a></li>
</ul>
</div>

How is Alzheimer's Treated?

When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s the response can be overwhelming and leave us asking, “What now? Where do we go from here?” While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, symptoms can often be treated and the progression of the disease can be slowed. Current Alzheimer’s treatment options focus on prevention and addressing […]

Recent studies have shown that treatments traditionally given for high blood pressure, diabetes and other chronic conditions also lessen the symptoms of Alzheimer&#8217;s disease. Discoveries like these could lead to greater and possibly more effective alternative treatments for Alzheimer&#8217;s patients. <img class="alignright wp-image-4300" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2013/12/alternative-treatments-for-alzheimers-300x218.jpg" alt="Alternative Treatments for Alzheimer's" width="270" height="195" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2013/12/alternative-treatments-for-alzheimers-300x218.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2013/12/alternative-treatments-for-alzheimers.jpg 500w" sizes="(max-width: 270px) 100vw, 270px" />
<h2>Traditional Treatments for Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
<a title="Medications for Memory Loss" href="http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_standard_prescriptions.asp" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Traditional Alzheimer&#8217;s medications</a> treat cognitive symptoms of the disease, such as memory loss, confusion, and problems with language and judgment. These drugs target protein fragments (<a title="Alzheimer's Brain Plaques" href="http://www.alz.org/braintour/plaques.asp" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">beta-amyloids</a>) that build up as plaques in brain cells. This buildup causes the damage that leads to Alzheimer&#8217;s.
Physicians will prescribe a drug regimen based on the stage of the disease. While traditional drugs can&#8217;t cure Alzheimer&#8217;s or stop brain cells from deteriorating, they can delay the disease&#8217;s progress for a certain period of time.
<h2>Alternative Treatments for Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
In contrast to traditional therapies, <a title="3 Alternative Treatments for Alzheimer's Disease" href="http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2013/11/24/3-alternative-treatments-to-alzheimers-disease.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">alternative treatments for Alzheimer&#8217;s</a> have shown to lower the risk of the disease and even reverse its symptoms. Although some of the recent breakthroughs were accidental, each of the drugs listed below shows promises in <a title="Why Alz Researchers are Shifting Focus from Treatment to Prevention" href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-12-02/researchers-shifting-focus-from-treatment-to-prevention/">making Alzheimer&#8217;s a disease of the past</a>.
<h3>1. Blood pressure medicines:</h3>
High blood pressure is typically treated with life style changes and medications. These medicines include ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) and diuretics. Each of these medicines impacts the cardiovascular system in such a way as to lower blood pressure.
A recent study at <a title="Blood Pressure Drugs Shown to Decrease Risks of Alzheimer's Disease" href="http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/media/releases/blood_pressure_drugs_shown_to_decrease_risk_of_alzheimers_disease_dementia" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Johns Hopkins University</a> demonstrated how patients who took certain blood pressure medicines lowered their risk of Alzheimer&#8217;s disease by 50 percent. Researchers haven&#8217;t yet been able to determine exactly why certain blood pressure medicines affect cognitive function the way they do. But their findings warrant further studies.
<h3>2. Diabetes treatments:</h3>
Scientists at <a title="Diabetes Drug Reverses Alzheimer's" href="http://www.lancaster.ac.uk/news/articles/2013/diabetes-drug-reverses-alzheimers-and-could-be-available-in-five-years/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Lancaster University</a> examined the diabetes drug Victoza as a potential Alzheimer&#8217;s therapy. Victoza falls into a class of drugs designed to stimulate natural insulin production for diabetics. But researchers believed it could also prevent the buildup of beta-amyloids on brain cells.
They injected Victoza into mice suffering from late-stage Alzheimer&#8217;s. After two months, the drug had reduced beta-amyloid plaques on the brain by 30 percent. And it actually protected brain cells from damage. These results have led to <a title="Alzheimer's Clinical Trials: Is Ignorance Really Bliss?" href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-07-03/clinical-trials/">clinical trials</a> to determine if the drug has the same effect on humans.
<h3>3. Rheumatoid arthritis drugs:</h3>
Physicians generally prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA). If those don&#8217;t work, they&#8217;ll look to <a title="WebMD: Treating Rheumatoid Arthritis" href="http://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/guide/understanding-rheumatoid-arthritis-treatment" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">biologics</a>. Made of proteins, biologics inhibit areas of the immune system that contribute to inflammation.
At the <a title="University of Southampton: Memory Assessment and Research Centre" href="http://www.marc.soton.ac.uk/Default.asp" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">University of Southampton</a>, researchers have planned a study on the biologic Enbrel as an alternative treatment for Alzheimer&#8217;s. Enbrel blocks tumor-necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), a molecule that helps immune cells communicate. Blocking TNF-alpha reduces inflammation in the body. Beta-amyloid buildup also causes inflammation that remains after standard Alzheimer&#8217;s treatments. Researchers hope that Enbrel can reduce this inflammation and, ideally, stop Alzheimer&#8217;s damage.
<h3> 4. Cholesterol medicines:</h3>
<a title="Side Effects of Cholesterol-Lowering Statin Drugs" href="http://www.webmd.com/cholesterol-management/side-effects-of-statin-drugs" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Statins</a> are widely used to help people suffering from high cholesterol. These drugs block the action of an enzyme in the liver that produces cholesterol. If left untreated, high cholesterol can cause plaque buildup in the arteries and eventually cause heart attack or stroke.
Previous studies had shown that statins might cause memory loss. However, the latest research indicates that in high doses statins help prevent dementia. Scientists specifically noted high potency statins as having the greatest effects on lowering dementia risks. The FDA continues to include a warning about the cognitive effects of statins on drug labels. So further studies are needed before statins can receive approval as an Alzheimer&#8217;s treatment.
Do you know of any other alternative treatments for Alzheimer&#8217;s? Share them with us in the comments below.
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4 Alternative Treatments for Alzheimer's Disease

Recent studies have shown that treatments traditionally given for high blood pressure, diabetes and other chronic conditions also lessen the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. Discoveries like these could lead to greater and possibly more effective alternative treatments for Alzheimer’s patients.  Traditional Treatments for Alzheimer’s Traditional Alzheimer’s medications treat cognitive symptoms of the disease, such as […]

A staple of ayurvedic medicine, ashwagandha restores energy, fights disease and promotes healthy sleep. It&#8217;s been used as a medicinal herb to treat the body and mind for over 3,000 years. Recent studies indicate that one of the benefits is that it can improve memory. But can it treat Alzheimer&#8217;s? <img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/The-Benefits-of-Ashwagandha-A-Natural-Way-to-Fight-Alzheimers-300x191.jpg" alt="The Benefits of Ashwagandha, A Natural Way to Fight Alzheimer&#039;s" width="300" height="191" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67924" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/The-Benefits-of-Ashwagandha-A-Natural-Way-to-Fight-Alzheimers-300x191.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/The-Benefits-of-Ashwagandha-A-Natural-Way-to-Fight-Alzheimers.jpg 500w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
<h2>What is Ashwagandha?</h2>
Native to dry regions of India, Northern Africa and the Middle East, <a title="Ashwagandha" href="http://en.mr-ginseng.com/ashwagandha/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">ashwagandha</a> has been around for millennia. It&#8217;s a relative of the tomato. Ayurvedic medicine looks to the plant&#8217;s leaves for therapeutic benefits, but Western cultures rely on its roots to make herbal remedies.
<h2>What Diseases Can Ashwagandha Fight?</h2>
According to the <a title="Chopra Center: Ashwagandha" href="http://www.chopra.com/community/online-library/ayurvedic-herbs-foods/ashwagandha" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Chopra Center</a>, studies have shown that ashwagandha provides a range of health benefits, from lowering cholesterol and stabilizing blood sugar to reducing inflammation and anxiety. In turn, these benefits help fight a number of diseases, including:
<ul>
<li>asthma</li>
<li>arthritis</li>
<li>chronic fatigue</li>
<li>anemia</li>
<li>infertility</li>
<li>depression</li>
<li>ulcers</li>
<li>high blood pressure</li>
<li>depression</li>
<li>some cancers</li>
</ul>
Ashwagandha also has shown to improve learning and memory. Ayurvedic practitioners recommend it as a brain booster and a remedy for forgetfulness.
<h2>How Can Ashwagandha Fight Alzheimer&#8217;s?</h2>
Studies
<a title="Test-Tube Study: Ashwagandha Inhibits Alzheimer's" href="http://www.ergo-log.com/ashwagandhaalzheimers.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Researchers at Newcastle University</a> have found that it inhibits the formation of beta-amyloid plaques. These plaques, considered toxic to brain cells, accumulate in the brains of people with neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer&#8217;s. Because the studies were conducted in test tubes, however, researchers emphasize that more testing is needed.
At the <a title="Ancient Herb Proven to be a Potential Cure for Alzheimer's" href="https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/252b/d9152fa345251405ee42f68eb243c6713375.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">National Brain Research Center (NBRC)</a>, scientists tested the herb on mice with Alzheimer&#8217;s. After 20 days of treatment cognitive performance of the mice improved significantly. At the end of 30 days, their brain function had returned to normal and the amyloid plaques that had been present in the mice&#8217;s brains were reduced.
Moreover, the study showed that rather than altering brain chemistry directly, ashwagandha boosts a protein in the liver. This protein clears amyloid from the brain.
Side Effects
Researchers caution that it&#8217;s too early for human trials of ashwagandha for Alzheimer&#8217;s. Although the dose given to mice was effective, it was very high. In high doses, the herb has shown to have a hypnotic effect, cause drowsiness and provoke intestinal problems. It&#8217;s also not recommended for people with hyperthyroidism or women who are pregnant.
<h2>Conclusions</h2>
Studies show its promise as a treatment for memory loss and dementia in humans. But it&#8217;s still too early to tell whether it will someday become an alternative Alzheimer&#8217;s therapy.
Like any other remedy not prescribed by a doctor, people considering ashwagandha should consult with a physician to determine any potential drug interactions or side effects. Always talk to your doctor before you change your treatment regimen.
Have you used ashwagandha? What effects did you see? 
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The Benefits of Ashwagandha, A Natural Way to Fight Alzheimer's

A staple of ayurvedic medicine, ashwagandha restores energy, fights disease and promotes healthy sleep. It’s been used as a medicinal herb to treat the body and mind for over 3,000 years. Recent studies indicate that one of the benefits is that it can improve memory. But can it treat Alzheimer’s? What is Ashwagandha? Native to […]

Have you learned a new skill lately? A new study reveals that learning a new skill can actually increase episodic memory as well as cognitive processing speed. Hopefully, the study will encourage caregivers and seniors to become involved in community classes that spark creativity. 
<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-4192" alt="Digital Photography Enhance Brain Power" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2013/11/digital-photography-enhance-brain-power-300x218.jpg" width="300" height="217" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2013/11/digital-photography-enhance-brain-power-300x218.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2013/11/digital-photography-enhance-brain-power.jpg 500w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
A recent study published by <a href="http://pss.sagepub.com/content/early/2013/11/07/0956797613499592.abstract?papetoc" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Psychological Science</a> has shown that, according to initial findings, seniors can increase cognitive ability by learning a new skill, such as digital photography or quilting. The study occurred over 14 weeks and included over 200 seniors doing a variety of activities. While further studies need to be done, this particular study shows us that seniors can learn new skills and increase memory and cognitive ability while learning that skill.
The study included over 200 participants with an average age of 72. Over the course of 14 weeks, the participants were divided into six, fairly small groups. The groups were divided into the following:
<ul>
<li>Learning digital photography</li>
<li>Learning quilting</li>
<li>Learning digital photography and quilting</li>
<li>Participating in social activities</li>
<li>Playing games, puzzles, and watching documentaries</li>
<li>Recording usual activities with no change (control group)</li>
</ul>
<h2>The Best Skills to Boost Your Brain</h2>
At the end of 14 weeks, researchers <a href="http://www.scilogs.com/next_regeneration/learning-digital-photography-improves-cognitive-function-older/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">evaluated the cognitive skills</a> of each group and found that those who were in the digital photography class showed more improvement in episodic memory capacity than the placebo condition. Those that participated in quilting and the digital photography lessons showed more improvement in cognitive processing speed. Learning a new skill (ie. quilting or photography) that required creativity as well as hands on participation showed marked cognitive improvement.
While the results did show an improvement among those whose groups required creativity and a higher cognitive demand, there are some limitation to the study. The groups were fairly small which makes it hard to conclude the study can be generalized. In addition, the tests were performed soon after the activities were completed. Further testing will need to be done to see if the activity had a lasting cognitive effect.
<h2>What This Means for Your Brain Health</h2>
Regardless of these limitations, the study shows that cognitive capacity can be improved in seniors. The seniors who actively acquired a new skill improved cognitive function. This can help seniors remain engaged in their communities through classes and creative workshops that will decrease isolation as well as increase brain power.
What new skill is your loved one learning that is enhancing their brain power?

A Simple Trick to Sharpen Your Memory

Have you learned a new skill lately? A new study reveals that learning a new skill can actually increase episodic memory as well as cognitive processing speed. Hopefully, the study will encourage caregivers and seniors to become involved in community classes that spark creativity.  A recent study published by Psychological Science has shown that, according […]

The herb rhodiola rosea, native to mountainous regions of Europe, Asia and the Arctic, has shown to help reduce stress. It&#8217;s a staple of Eastern European and Scandinavian diets and is used to stimulate the nervous system, improve stamina and eliminate fatigue. Recently, rhodiola rosea has gained notice as a potential aid for memory loss, making it the subject of studies on aging and Alzheimer&#8217;s disease.
<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-4131" alt="Can Rhodiola Rosa Fight Alzheimer's" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2013/11/can-rhodiola-rosa-fight-alzheimers.gif" />
Herbal remedies have made their way into the mainstream over the past several decades. For some, they&#8217;re a reliable means for treating health issues and maintaining wellness. People might take ginseng to increase energy levels, goldenseal to fight colds, or echinacea to strengthen the immune system.
Recently, <a title="Healthy Brain for Life: Rhodiola for Mental Endurance" href="http://www.healthybrainforlife.com/articles/brain-botanicals/rhodiola-herb-for-mental-endurance" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">rhodiola rosea</a> has been added to the list of herbs that promote <a title="9 Ways to Take Charge of Healthy Aging" href="http://www.aplaceformom.com/blog/2013-9-2-take-charge-of-healthy-aging/">healthy aging </a>and may even prevent Alzheimer&#8217;s disease.
<h2>How Does Rhodiola Rosea Work?</h2>
Rhodiola rosea contains phenylpropanoids, which are believed to enhance cognitive function and have a calming effect. In addition, it contains antioxidant compounds that help prevent diseases, such as cancer and heart disease. It&#8217;s also shown to improve glycogen production and increase endurance, all beneficial during physical activity.
<h2>What Does Research on Rhodiola Rosea Show?</h2>
Studies on <a title="PubMed: Rhodiola Rosea Reduces Stress" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10839209" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">students</a> and <a title="PubMed: Rhodiola Rosea Reduces Fatigue" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11081987" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">physicians</a> demonstrate the herb&#8217;s ability to reduce stress levels and fatigue. Additionally, research has shown that the herb slows the breakdown of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is linked to memory. A <a title="Life Extension Magazine: Rhodiola" href="http://www.lef.org/magazine/mag2007/dec2007_report_nutraceutical_01.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">proofreading study</a> indicated that participants who took a single dose of rhodiola rosea (300 mg) significantly decreased errors compared to the control group.
<h2>Can Rhodiola Rosea Treat Alzheimer&#8217;s?</h2>
Recent studies reveal that <a title="Rhodiola Rosea and Alzheimer's" href="http://alzheimers-review.blogspot.com/2012/05/rhodiola-rosea-and-alzheimers.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">rhodiola rosea improves memory in rats</a> with signs of Alzheimer&#8217;s disease. Nevertheless, more studies are needed to determine whether it&#8217;s a bona fide treatment for severe memory loss in humans. Its other effects, namely its ability to fight fatigue, stress and depression, all symptoms of Alzheimer&#8217;s, could still be of benefit to Alzheimer&#8217;s patients. However, patients and their families should always consult a physician before trying any alternative therapies for their illness.
What&#8217;s your experience using herbal remedies to fight memory loss or aid in overall wellness?
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Can Rhodiola Rosea Fight Alzheimer's?

The herb rhodiola rosea, native to mountainous regions of Europe, Asia and the Arctic, has shown to help reduce stress. It’s a staple of Eastern European and Scandinavian diets and is used to stimulate the nervous system, improve stamina and eliminate fatigue. Recently, rhodiola rosea has gained notice as a potential aid for memory loss, […]

A new study from Johns Hopkins University shows that certain blood pressure medications are linked to a lower risk of developing Alzheimer&#8217;s Disease.&nbsp;
<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-3852" alt="Blood Pressure Prescription Medication" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2013/11/blood-pressure-prescription-medication-300x200.jpg" width="300" height="199" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2013/11/blood-pressure-prescription-medication-300x200.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2013/11/blood-pressure-prescription-medication.jpg 350w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Researchers from the Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore found that certain common antihyperintesive drugs, or drugs that are used to treat high blood pressure, may reduce the risk of Alzheimer&#8217;s by half. The study was recently published in<a href="http://www.neurology.org/content/81/10/896.abstract?sid=c6cea81a-dde0-47c6-a56f-33edc01e6d99" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> Neurology</a> and is paving the way for additional drug treatment options.
<h2>Lower Blood Pressure Means a Healthier Brain</h2>
Dr. Sevil Yasar and fellow researchers gathered demographic information on over 2,000 senior participants over the course of six years. Of those participants, 71% were taking high blood pressure medication. Those who were taking certain types of&nbsp; antihyperintensive medication, including diuretics, had a <a href="http://www.webmd.com/hypertension-high-blood-pressure/news/20131024/common-blood-pressure-drugs-tied-to-lower-risk-of-alzheimers-study" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">50% less chance of developing Alzheimer&#8217;s</a>.
Exactly why the medication had this effect is unknown. One reason may be that high blood pressure is a risk factor for memory problems so lower blood pressure may protect against symptoms of Alzheimer&#8217;s in and of itself.
<h2>Next Steps for The Study</h2>
While the study showed promising preventative measures, more studies need to be done before drawing a conclusion. The study replicated previous findings that lower blood pressure means better brain power, but more research needs to be done to find how the medication works to reduce Alzheimer&#8217;s in addition to lowering blood pressure.
&#8220;Our study was able to <a href="http://Read%20more:%20http://www.psychcongress.com/article/certain-antihypertensives-may-reduce-older-patients%25E2%2580%2599-dementia-risk-13711%23ixzz2jKlzglXh" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">replicate previous findings,</a>&#8221; said researcher Dr. Yaser. &#8220;However, we were also able to show that the beneficial effect of these blood pressure medications are maybe in addition to blood pressure control, and could help clinicians in selecting an antihypertensive medication based not only on blood pressure control, but also on additional benefits.&#8221;
Have you seen blood pressure medication make a difference in the brain function of your loved one?&nbsp;
<h3>More Articles:</h3>
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Can Blood Pressure Medication Lower Your Risk of Alzheimer's?

A new study from Johns Hopkins University shows that certain blood pressure medications are linked to a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s Disease.  Researchers from the Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore found that certain common antihyperintesive drugs, or drugs that are used to treat high blood pressure, may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s by half. […]

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