A weekly recap of the latest news about Alzheimer’s and dementia
Alzheimer’s Orange County compiles a weekly roundup of the latest news stories and developments about Alzheimer’s and dementia to keep you updated on what’s happening locally and all around the world. Check out this week’s headlines below:
New Alzheimer’s Early-Detection Test, Vaccine Show Promise
Dr. Marc Siegel shares findings from a new blood test engineered to detect Alzheimer’s. The test is estimated to be about 90 percent accurate, not only predicting whether a person may have Alzheimer’s, but also if they do not have it. Siegel predicts another Alzheimer’s breakthrough to be less than three years away, should research continue favorably. Watch more here.
Low Grip Strength Linked to Impaired Cognition, Memory Loss in Older Americans
A new study observing close to 14,000 participants seems to suggest that poor hand grip may be a sign of impaired cognition and memory. If true, this study would be a push towards including grip strength in routine health assessments for seniors and older adults, in order to retain both physical and mental ability. Overall, it is an additional instance in which research proves that physical activities are important not only for overall health, but also for cognitive health. Read more here.
This is a great Q&A by Being Patient for those who have legal and financial questions concerning Alzheimer’s diagnosis. It discusses the importance of contacting and hiring an attorney, financial support, elder abuse and fraud prevention, and other legal issues. Read more here.
Proteomics Uncovers Potential Markers, Subtypes of Alzheimer’s
This report by ALZFORUM delves into the painstaking work of researchers in identifying biomarkers and proteomic analysis in attempts to distinguishing potential tells of Alzheimer’s disease as well as the possibility of there being subtypes of the disease. Specialists are trying to determine whether or not the variations in their studies indicate subtypes of Alzheimer’s disease or merely different rates of progression; if it is the former, then that calls for more personalized methods of treatment. Read more here.
How to Talk to Your Family About Planning for Alzheimer’s Disease
“Children under the age of 10 are likely not going to fully grasp that their loved one is experiencing a degenerative brain disorder. They will, however, understand the need to provide loving care.” Another helpful compilation of advice from Being Patient goes into the importance of talking to your loved ones about Alzheimer’s, whether you are diagnosed or are taking care of someone who is diagnosed. Read more here.
