Preventing Alzheimer's Disease: What is Known!

Can Cognitive Training Prevent Alzheimer's Disease?

Cognitive training involves structured activities designed to enhance memory, reasoning, and speed of processing. There is encouraging but inconclusive evidence that a specific, computer-based cognitive training may help delay or slow age-related cognitive decline. However, there is no evidence that it can prevent or delay Alzheimer's-related cognitive impairment.

Studies show that cognitive training can improve the type of cognition a person is trained in. For example, older adults who received 10 hours of practice designed to enhance their speed and accuracy in responding to pictures presented briefly on a computer screen ("speed of processing" training) got faster and better at this specific task and other tasks in which enhanced speed of processing is important. Similarly, older adults who received several hours of instruction on effective memory strategies showed improved memory when using those strategies. The important question is whether such training has long-term benefits or translates into improved performance on daily activities like driving and remembering to take medicine.

Some of the strongest evidence that this might be the case comes from the NIA-sponsored Advanced Cognitive Training for Independent and Vital Elderly (ACTIVE) trial. In this trial, healthy adults age 65 and older participated in 10 sessions of memory, reasoning, or speed-of-processing training with certified trainers during 5 to 6 weeks, with "booster sessions" made available to some participants 11 months and 3 years after initial training. The sessions improved participants' mental skills in the area in which they were trained (but not in other areas), and improvements persisted years after the training was completed. In addition, participants in all three groups reported that they could perform daily activities with greater independence as many as 10 years later, although there was no objective data to support this.

Findings from long-term observational studies—in which researchers observed behavior but did not influence or change it—also suggest that informal cognitively stimulating activities, such as reading or playing games, may lower risk of Alzheimer's-related cognitive impairment and dementia. For example, a study of nearly 2,000 cognitively normal adults 70 and older found that participating in games, crafts, computer use, and social activities for about 4 years was associated with a lower risk of MCI.

Scientists think that some of these activities may protect the brain by establishing "reserve," the brain's ability to operate effectively even when it is damaged or some brain function is disrupted. Another theory is that such activities may help the brain become more adaptable in some mental functions so it can compensate for declines in others. Scientists do not know if particular types of cognitive training—or elements of the training such as instruction or social interaction—work better than others, but many studies are ongoing.

Can Eating Certain Foods or Diets Prevent Alzheimer's Disease?

People often wonder if a certain diet or specific foods can help prevent Alzheimer's disease. The recent NASEM review of research did not find enough evidence to recommend a certain diet to prevent cognitive decline or Alzheimer's. However, certain diets and healthy eating patterns have been associated with cognitive benefits. Studies of diets, such as the Mediterranean diet and the MIND diet—a combination of the Mediterranean and DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diets—are underway. Learn more about what we know about diet and the prevention of Alzheimer's disease.

For more information, read What Do We Know About Diet and Alzheimer's Prevention?

Targets of Alzheimer's Disease Prevention Research

Researchers are exploring these and other interventions that may help prevent, delay, or slow Alzheimer's dementia or age-related cognitive decline. Other research targets include:

• New drugs to delay onset or slow disease progression
• Diabetes treatment
• Depression treatment
• Blood pressure- and lipid-lowering treatments
• Sleep interventions
• Social engagement
• Vitamins such as B12 plus folic acid supplements and D
• Combined physical and mental exercises

Be Cautious About Alzheimer's "Cures"

Because Alzheimer's disease is so devastating, some people are tempted by untried or unproven "cures." Check with your doctor before trying pills or any other treatment or supplement that promises to prevent Alzheimer's. These "treatments" might be unsafe, a waste of money, or both. They might even interfere with other medical treatments that have been prescribed.

What's the Bottom Line on Alzheimer's Prevention?

Alzheimer's disease is complex, and the best strategy to prevent or delay it may turn out to be a combination of measures. In the meantime, you can do many things that may keep your brain healthy and your body fit.

You also can help scientists learn more by volunteering to participate in research. Clinical trials and studies are looking for all kinds of people—healthy volunteers, cognitively normal participants with a family history of Alzheimer's, people with MCI, and people diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementia.

To find study sites near you, contact NIA's Alzheimer's and related Dementias Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center at 1-800-438-4380 or email the ADEAR CenterOr, visit NIA's clinical trials finder to search for trials and studies.

This article is from NIA- The National Institute on Aging

“The National Aging Institute's Web site (www.nia.nih.gov) is an institute of the NIH, a U.S. Federal Government agency that provides accurate, up-to-date information about aspects of aging research, information about clinical trials, educational materials and resources about aging for the general public, and information for researchers and health professionals.”

Goodbye Back Pain

 I honestly thought it was age and relative inactivity but my back pain was getting worse.

I used an electric heating pad. It helped but only temporarily. 

I used arthritis cream.

Aspirin helped but when my Dr. put me on blood thinners, he suggested I no longer take aspirin.

I knew a chiropractor could help but it wasn't covered by medicare and my budget didn't include it. 

I knew I would not get surgery unless I absolutely had to.

Imagine my surprise when I found something I could buy that wasn't expensive and eased my back pain. I should say eliminated it. 

What a difference having better posture, not walking like a little ole lady in pain. I felt the difference in a short time. It helps so much when I'm hunched over, or used to hunch over my laptop. 

The one I bought on Amazon is perfect for me. I can't recommend it more than 5 stars on there. I'd give it 10 stars if I could.

This is why I recommend it for anyone who might have posture-related back pain.

• Gives you perfect posture & improves body alignment
• Reduces back, neck, and shoulder pain
• Makes you look taller, slimmer, and more confident
• Strengthens muscles and prevents further damage
• Improves breathing

I am recommending this one and I may get a small commission for suggesting it but I hope that you will check it out on Amazon and see if it will work for you.

Posture Corrector  ---  Only $19.99 

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Alzheimer's and Dementia

Do you know someone concerned about Dementia and/or Alzheimer's? Here is a series of things to know and consider.

My Friend Alice's Slow Decline

What is Normal Age-Related Memory Loss

Dementia

Age Related Memory Loss or.....

Many older people worry about not remembering certain dates, or to pay a bill, perhaps a name they are sure they should know.

These changes are usually signs of mild forgetfulness, often a normal part of aging—not serious memory problems.

What's the difference between normal, age-related forgetfulness and a serious memory problem? Serious memory problems make it hard to do everyday things like driving and shopping. Signs may include:

• Asking the same questions over and over again
• Getting lost in familiar places
• Not being able to follow instructions
• Becoming confused about time, people, and places

Mild Cognitive Impairment

Some older adults have a condition called 'mild cognitive impairment'.or MCI, in which they have more memory or other thinking problems than other people their age. 

People with MCI can take care of themselves and do their normal activities. MCI may be an early sign of Alzheimer's, but not everyone with MCI will develop Alzheimer's disease  

Signs of MCI include:

• Losing things often
• Forgetting to go to important events or appointments
• Having more trouble coming up with desired words than other people of the same age

If you have MCI, visit your doctor every 6 to 12 months to see if you have any changes in memory and other thinking skills over time. 

There may be things you can do to maintain your memory and mental abilities. No medications have been approved to treat MCI.

Talk with your health care provider to determine if memory loss and other thinking problems are normal or not, and what is causing them.

Check out these Aging Easy Posts:

Sexuality After Sixty

Easy Skin Care

Falling

Stop Falls at Home

National Institute on Aging

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e-mail or update in sidebar

   

Information is this Blog is from The National Institute on Aging and related sources. The use of copyrighted material has been avoided to the best of the author’s discernment.

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Dementia

Alice, Dementia or Alzheimer's

I wasn't overly concerned when my friend Alice told me how frustrated she gets when her adult children remind her she told them something before.

It happens to me. I don't always remember which one of my kids I told I got a good deal on a rib roast or about something I saw on TV. 

"Mom, you told me that, twice. This is the third time." 

I realized I had to pay closer attention to who I told what.

When Alice got lost on her way home from the grocery store she shops at regularly, a little flag popped up in my mind. Another time she said she was embarrassed that she thoughtlessly put the eggs in the oven instead of the refrigerator. That's when the little flag became a big one unfurled and flying high.

Alice and I have been friends for many years and we are close enough to tell each other things we don't tell others. I decided it was time to talk to her daughters. They were also concerned.

I told her daughter I knew Medicare-covered testing for Alzheimer's disease under certain conditions, like having Medicare Part B for at least a year. The problem was getting Alice to agree to have it done. Denial of most any medical problem is not uncommon among many of us seniors. When it's a problem that could be serious, possibly terminal, or untreatable, well we hold off as long as we can.

The next time I was with Alice, I mentioned I was thinking of getting tested for Alzheimer's. Her surprised look was followed by, "Why?"

I mentioned little things like forgetting names, losing my phone, how I had to make notes to remind me of appointments or social activities. She shook her head and said that was not unusual for people our age.

Not long after that, I heard Alice had walked out of church service and was gone for over 6 hours. Her car was still in the parking lot. Family and friends spread out looking for her and found her in a field several miles outside of town.

She agreed to be tested. It was determined she had dementia, often a prelude to Alzheimer's. Could early detection prevent Alzheimer's?

Is there anything one can do pre-dementia to prevent it?

With concentrated, in-depth research, I learned a lot about memory loss, dementia, and Alzheimer's.  It's why I decided to write this Blog--

The more we know, the better we can deal with whatever memory loss we have. 

Even if you aren't experiencing memory loss, you probably know someone who is. Possibly what I've learned will be useful to them.

Next post:

Differenc Between Normal Age Related Memory Loss and......

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Normal Age-Rrelated Memory Loss or -

Is it normal age-related memory loss or a serious problem that interferes with your daily life and might lead to something more serious like dementia?

Signs may include:

• Asking the same questions over and over again
• Getting lost in familiar places
• Not being able to follow instructions
• Becoming confused about time, people, and places

Mild Cognitive Impairment

Some older adults have a condition called 'mild cognitive impairment'.or MCI, in which they have more memory or other thinking problems than other people

 People with MCI can take care of themselves and do their normal activities. MCI may be an early sign of Alzheimer's, but not everyone with MCI will develop Alzheimer's disease  

Signs of MCI include:

• Losing things often
• Forgetting to go to important events or appointments
• Having more trouble coming up with desired words than other people of the same age

If you have MCI, visit your doctor every 6 to 12 months to see if you have any changes in memory and other thinking skills over time. 

There may be things you can do to maintain your memory and mental abilities. No medications have been approved to treat MCI.

Talk with your health care provider to determine if memory loss and other thinking problems are normal or not, and what is causing them.

This series covers various important aspects of age-related information. 

For updates subscribe in the sidebar or email:

Updates

Next post,' Dementia'.

Check out these Aging Easy Posts:

Sexuality After Sixty

Easy Skin Care

Falling

Stop Falls at Home

National Institute on Aging

For updates, new posts, and special announcements:

e-mail or update in sidebar

Information is this Blog is from The National Institute on Aging and related sources. The use of copyrighted material has been avoided to the best of the author’s discernment.

For updates subscribe in the sidebar or email:

Updates

Next post,

 

Information in this Blog is from The National Institute on Aging and related sources. The use of copyrighted material has been avoided to the best of the author’s discernment.

Dementia

 Dementia is not a normal part of aging

Dementia is the loss of cognitive functioning—thinking, remembering, learning, reasoning, and behavioral abilities to such an extent that it interferes with daily life and activities.

Memory loss is not the only sign of dementia. A person may also have problems with language skills, visual perception, or paying attention. Some people have personality changes. 

There are different forms of dementia.  Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia in older adults.

When to Visit the Doctor for Memory Loss

If you, a family member, or friend has problems remembering recent events or thinking clearly, talk with a doctor. He or she may suggest a thorough checkup to see what might be causing the symptoms

The annual Medicare wellness visit includes an assessment of cognitive impairment.T his visit is covered by Medicare for patients who have had Medicare Part B insurance for at least 1 year.

Memory and other thinking problems have many possible causes, including depression, an infection, or a medication side effect. 

Sometimes, the problem can be treated and the thinking problems disappear. Other times, the problem is a brain disorder, such as Alzheimer's disease, which cannot be reversed. 

Finding the cause of the problems is important to determine the best course of action.

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Information is this Blog is from The National Institute on Aging.

Are You Aging Easy?

According to The National Institute on Aging, more than 10,000 people turn 65 every day in the United States and people are living longer, healthier lives.

Healthy lifestyles, planning for retirement, knowing your options for health care and long-term care are more important than ever.

Adopting healthy habits and behaviors, staying involved in your community, using preventive services, managing health conditions, and understanding all your medications can contribute to a productive and meaningful life.

Problems such as no appetite or difficulty chewing can keep older adults from eating healthy. Get problem-solving suggestions for common barriers.

Make Shopping Easier

A trip to the grocery store can be a chore for anyone, but you might have some new reasons for not going as you get older. For example, getting around a big food store might be difficult. What can you do?

• Some stores have motorized carts you can use.
• Ask if there is an employee who can help you reach things or push your cart.
• If your store has a pharmacy department, youmight find a seat there if you get tired.
• Plan to shop at a time of day when you are rested.
• If it’s a busy grocery store, try to pick a time when it might not be so crowded; that way, you won’t have to stand in a long check-out line.
• Check with your local Area Agency on Aging to see if there are volunteers in your area who can help.
• Use curbside pick up. I order online and pick up in the designated parking slot.

Shopping for healthy foods, especially fresh fruits and vegetables, might be hard where you live. People who live in rural areas or some city neighborhoods often have trouble finding larger supermarkets. Instead, they have to shop at convenience stores and small neighborhood markets. Sometimes smaller stores have a limited selection of fresh foods.

You can talk to the managers or owners. Let them know that you and others are interested in buying more fresh fruits and vegetables, whole-grain products, and low-fat milk products.

Like most Americans, older people generally do not eat enough fruit. Yet, there are so many choices—citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits; different kinds of berries; fruits that grow on trees such as apricots, cherries, peaches, and mangoes; and others like figs, raisins, and pineapples.

I buy mostly frozen so no need to worry about it spoiling. It's also fresher since it is picked ripe and flash frozen. Many fresh are picked before they ripen and shipped longdistance. Some even gassed to help the ripening.

Use farmer's markets or roadside stands during growing seasons.

Check out these Aging Easy Posts:

Sexuality After Sixty

Easy Skin Care

Falling

Stop Falls at Home

National Institute on Aging

For updates, new posts, and special announcements:

e-mail or update in sidebar

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