Living With Alzheimer's: Helpful Tips For Care Givers

Alzheimer's is on the rise. That means more and more families are dealing with the effects of this debilitating brain disease. An estimated 30 million people are currently living with a diagnosis - and that number is expected to triple in the next several decades. Why is this so problematic? As the symptoms of the disease progress, Alzheimer's robs patients of their memory function along with their independence. Over time, patients will eventually forget how to handle everyday tasks....making proper care essential.
Whether patients are being cared for in a nursing home, hospital, or residence, one thing remains the same. Coping with the ins and outs of the disease can be extremely difficult for caregivers. Is someone in your life living with Alzheimer's disease? These helpful tips will allow you to improve the life of the patient - without losing yourself to stress.

Tip #1: Have a Plan Of Action

Caring for a loved one can be difficult. As each stage of the disease progresses, so do the demands on the caregiver. In the beginning, the patient may simply need help with day-to-day tasks. As their independence is reduced however, that can require more hands on work. That might include handling their finances to paying bills or feeding and bathing the patient. If unprepared, this can be extremely stressful for a caregiver to handle. To avoid unnecessary stress and strain - have a plan of action. This should be done while the patient is in the early stages of the disease. That way, you will be ready when symptoms begin to worsen. Planning ahead may include financial plans, having resources for extra care giving, and so on.

Tip #2: Use Community Resources

You don't have to do it alone. When you are caring for another person on a regular basis, it can take a lot out of you. That makes it especially important to have a solid support system in place. Have a list of friends and family members you can speak to, people who can assist with care giving every now and again, and a list of helpful community resources. Look into what is available in the town or city that you live in. It could be anything from a support group to adult day care. Knowing that you have options available to you can make all the difference.

Tip #3: Don't Forget To Care For Yourself

It is easy to put all of our energy into looking after someone we love. When you are caring for someone long-term.... that can take a serious toll on your mental and emotional well being. Remember to care for yourself as well! Failure to do so can cause caregiver stress. That often appears when you have begin to have difficulty sleeping, anxiety, depression, or problems with your own health. To combat those issues, focus on your own needs every now and again. Some ideas include: an evening off of care giving, getting a good night of sleep, taking a class, or spending time with friends.
Taking care of an Alzheimer's patient doesn't just impact the life of the patient. It can also affect the life of the caregiver. That is why it is important to have a plan of action, to make the most of any community resources, and to take good care of yourself. These tips will help you navigate the challenges of care giving in a way that benefits both you and the person you are taking care of.
Dr. David Tal has more than twenty years of clinical experience. He strongly believes that medical treatment can improve the life of Alzheimer's and memory loss patients.

Why More Attention Should Be Given To Alzheimer's Disease

Ebola is a serious concern. It has been discussed on every news show and in every blog post. Celebrities and health officials alike are speaking out about the crisis. While there is no denying the severity of this issue, it brings one question to mind: what about Alzheimer's disease? Thus far, there have been four cases of Ebola in the United States. Compare that to the millions of people currently living with Alzheimer's disease. Not to mention the 500, 000 deaths related to the disease each year in North America. If anything, the prompt response to the Ebola crisis highlights the need for an increased focus on Alzheimer's disease. That includes research, treatment options, and care giving.
Simply put, more attention should be given to Alzheimer's. This degenerative brain disease impacts the lives of patients and families all over the world. In fact, an estimated thirty million people are currently living with the disease - and that number is expected to soar over the next several decades. This issue is made more problematic as there is no known cure. So, why is it that the United States administration has requested over $6 billion to stop Ebola? That same administration hasn't put that amount of money into Alzheimer's research in the last decade.
Think about the numbers. By the time you reach the age of 65, your chances of being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease are 1 in 9. Once you reach 85, that number increases to 1 in 3. Despite the greater risk of developing Alzheimer's compared to many other diseases (Ebola is a prime example), it is given little attention. Perhaps this is because Alzheimer's is thought of as a disease for the elderly. Or maybe it has something to do with the fact that there is no proven way to avoid developing the disease. It is seen as inevitable.... and that makes it less buzz worthy. The result? Fewer news stories, articles, and awareness given to a serious brain disease. One that affects the lives and independence of so many.
There is no question more attention should be given to Alzheimer's disease. The real question is: will it? With a heightened focus on health issues like Ebola, there seems to be less and less of a discussion on Alzheimer's as a whole - let alone new research methods and treatment strategies. That leaves overworked caregivers and patients lacking hope. For real change to take place more money needs to be put into research, In addition, further awareness needs to be raised. Only then can positive changes begin to take shape.
Ebola has managed to worry men and women all over North America. This is understandable. There is no doubt the disease is scary and deadly. However, it is also incredibly rare. Alzheimer's is far more common and is just as troubling for patients living with the disease. That is why now is the time to take action. Putting more into research and treatment options is the most effective way to deal with this deadly disease.
Are you looking for more information about aging related memory loss? Contact the Age Matters Clinic at: 647-268-0620. We understand how to improve the life of Alzheimer's and memory loss patients.

Using MRI's To Find Biomarkers For Alzheimer's Disease

Are you at risk? Senior citizens considered to be at a high risk to develop Alzheimer's disease may be able to gain a proper diagnosis - long before the actual symptoms start to occur. That means before memory lapses begin to interfere with your day-to-day life and prior to missing appointments and skipping out on lunch dates.... it could be possible to gain a diagnosis. A new study found that an MRI brain imaging technique (one that doesn't use radiation) could actually detect the earliest signs of impending cognitive problems. This could potentially make it simpler to obtain a diagnosis. What did the study actually entail?
It consisted of 148 senior citizens, some who had not been diagnosed with a brain disease and 65 who already had signs of mild cognitive impairment. The brain imaging technique was used to look for low blood flow in the posterior cingulated cortex. That method is thought to predict whether or not mental decline could occur within the next 18 months of life. The brain imaging technique itself is known as arterial spin labelling. This research was conducted in the Netherlands and Switzerland before being published in the recent scientific journal, Radiology. The findings of the research also found that there were two other neuropsychological tests that could be used to predict mental decline.
The participants involved in the study were given tests and their brains were scanned using the brain imaging technique. After the 18-month period, the participants were then divided into two separate groups. They were: those with stable cognitive function and those with deteriorating cognitive function. The results from the original scans were compared to the group's latest scans. The pattern of "low blood flow to the posterior cingulate cortex was highly evident in the scans of subjects with mild cognitive impairment." The participants in the study who had normal blood flow to this area of the brain tended to have no shift in cognitive impairment by that 18-month follow up mark.
The authors of the research study found that this brain imaging technique may be able to help those who have a naturally higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. The sooner patients and doctors understand the risk of cognitive decline, the sooner preventative steps can be taken - and plans can be made about future care. Why is this so important? Not only would patients have the luxury of an earlier diagnosis, but it would also be a way for doctors and researchers to find out which Alzheimer's disease therapies are working effectively on their patients. The benefit of using arterial spin labelling as opposed to other brain imaging techniques? This specific one does not introduce contrast dye into the brain. Rather, scientists can magnetically tag water protons within circulating blood to make them visible.
With each new way of diagnosing Alzheimer's disease, early detection becomes more and more possible. This is promising for both patients and researchers. Early detection means more options for preventative treatments and potential drug therapies. It also gives men and women dealing with the disease hope that they can live a fuller, longer life.
Dr. David Tal has more than twenty years of clinical experience. He currently works at the Age Matters Clinic and strongly believes that medical treatment can improve the life of Alzheimer's and memory loss patients.

Understanding The Effects of Early Onset Alzheimer's

There is a stigma attached to Alzheimer's disease. It is often assumed that the degenerative brain disease only affects men and women over the age of 65.... senior citizens. This is not the case. Did you know that five percent of people living with Alzheimer's are under the age of 65? In fact, many of them are diagnosed in their 30s, 40s, and 50s. This is known as early onset Alzheimer's disease. The genetic mutation can be the result of a family history with the disease or simply the luck of the draw. A diagnosis of early onset Alzheimer's can be especially difficult for patients to deal with, particularly when it comes at such a young age. In order to move forward, understanding the effects are essential.
The best way to deal with Alzheimer's - at any age - is to obtain a proper diagnosis. It is the only way a patient will be able to plan accordingly, take measures to slow down the progression of symptoms, and begin to deal with the emotional repercussions. This also gives family and friends the opportunity to offer their support. Until that diagnosis is made, it can be difficult for those with early onset Alzheimer's to cope. Without answers, they are left to wonder why they keep forgetting about appointments, don't remember conversations, or struggle to keep up with responsibilities at work. Once a diagnosis is made, there are answers at the very least.
Just like Alzheimer's disease in older adults, early onset is diagnosed in the same way. It involves exploring the patient's clinical history and using imaging techniques. Unfortunately, because of the age factor, it can often take a significant amount of time for younger men and women to receive a proper diagnosis. Often, their memory loss is contributed to a disease more commonly associated with that particular age group. This can be frustrating for all of those involved. After a diagnosis actually has been made, it can be a devastating and difficult time for patients. Suddenly, their future is uncertain.
Some doctors believe that early onset Alzheimer's progresses much faster than Alzheimer's that occurs in later life. How accurate this is remains to be seen. However, one thing is for sure: facing this disease in your 30s, 40s, and 50s poses a whole new set of problems. They include work and family life. In terms of work, at that age, patients will likely still have jobs and careers to think about. As the symptoms of the disease progress, it will become increasingly difficult to deal with work related tasks, presentations, and more. After a certain point, the patient will need to consider how to break the news to their boss - and when. This can lead to serious financial strain. In addition, there is family life to consider. There are often young children to care for. This can be more difficult when dealing with issues related to the disease.
There is no doubt that early onset Alzheimer's disease poses a number of problems. Not only can diagnosis be difficult to obtain but it can also affect the financial and familial security of patients. To move forward, it is important to understand what to expect, be as informed as possible, go to support groups, and take any and all steps to prevent symptoms from becoming unmanageable. Early onset Alzheimer's disease is a serious issue facing many men and women today. It is clear that more research needs to be done in order to deal with the disease as effectively as possible - one age group at a time.
Dr. David Tal has more than twenty years of clinical experience. He currently works at the Age Matters Clinic and strongly believes that medical treatment can improve the life of Alzheimer's and memory loss patients.

About Dr. David Tal from Age Matters Clinic

Have you or a loved one ever experienced memory loss? What about dementia? Or even Alzheimer's disease? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you're not alone. There are millions of people around the world currently dealing with Alzheimer's and other serious forms of dementia. In fact, it is estimated that Alzheimer's affects nearly 36 million people - and that number is expected to rise in the coming decades. Sadly, memory loss can be incredibly difficult for patients and their families to deal with on a day-to-day basis. The good news however, is that there are qualified professionals who can help.
Let me take a moment to introduce myself. My name is Dr. David Tal and I work for the Age Matters Clinic in Toronto, Canada. I am proud to bring over 20 years of clinical experience to each and every one of my patients. At the Age Matters Clinic, we specialize in helping patients and their families cope with Alzheimer's disease and other types of memory loss. The clinic provides individualized care for patients, with a focus on good nutrition, mental and physical exercise, and medication when it becomes necessary. We also provide information and support to family members who need it.
What makes me qualified to help patients with memory loss? Not only do I have years of experience, but I am also a specialist in Geriatric Medicine. In addition, I have an extensive background in clinical research. I have spent time serving on the board of the Alzheimer's Society of Toronto for 4 years, and I am also a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Canada and a board member of the American College of Physicians. My extensive medical background has given me the knowledge, experience, and understanding required to properly care for patients dealing with various forms of memory loss.
Alzheimer's disease and dementia are serious medical issues. This is why I strongly believe in doing everything possible to prevent, slow down, or reduce the symptoms that rob a patient of their precious memories and independence. While there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, that doesn't mean there is nothing to be done. There are always treatment options available for patients throughout the various stages of dementia.
Since proper diagnosis and treatment can never start too soon, I focus on providing my patients with all the tools they need to combat dementia. This includes mental exercises that stimulate the brain, physical exercises to strengthen the body, as well as good nutrition to benefit overall well being, and certain medications as they are necessary. I have seen the difference that a healthy lifestyle can make firsthand.
If memory loss is affecting your life - or the life of a loved one - don't despair. You have options. I believe there is always hope for patients dealing with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and memory loss. At the Age Matters Clinic, I use my 20 years of clinical experience to provide patients and their families with the best treatment options available. So, don't give up...contact me, Dr. David Tal, at the Age Matters Clinic today.
Do you need more information about preventing memory loss? Contact the Age Matters Clinic at: 647-268-0620. We understand how to improve the life of Alzheimer's and memory loss patients.

The Difference Between Dementia and Alzheimer's

When it comes to memory loss, the terms dementia and Alzheimer's are often used interchangeably. However, they aren't the same. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth. While it may be easier to lump all memory related issues together, this isn't accurate - and it doesn't do patients any favours. So, it's time to break it down and find out what the difference between dementia and Alzheimer's disease actually is.
All About Dementia: What It Is, How It Happens, and Treatment Options
In order to understand the difference between these two terms, we must start by defining what each one really means. Let's start with dementia. This is often used as an umbrella term to describe mental impairment that affects every day life. Unlike normal age related memory issues, dementia is a far more serious problem. It doesn't just make everyday tasks more challenging. As time goes on, the symptoms of dementia will continue to progress, eventually robbing patients of their independence. While age related memory loss might include random bouts of forgetfulness or remembering how to perform certain tasks, dementia is not a short-term problem. It is degenerative, meaning that as time goes by, the symptoms experienced will either increase in regularity or become much worse. How long that takes to happen depends entirely upon the patient themselves and certain environmental factors, such as diet, exercise, and so on.
It is important to note that dementia is not a disease. Rather, it is a progressive brain disorder. The symptoms related to dementia typically appear in men and women over the age of 60. However, the chances of developing dementia increase as you age. For instance, once you reach the age of 90, the likelihood of experiencing dementia rises to 1 in 3.
Now that you know what dementia actually is, you may be wondering why this term is so frequently linked with Alzheimer's disease. Well, here is the reason: when it comes to the cause of dementia, many different brain diseases can be to blame.... Alzheimer's included. This link often leads to confusion between the terms. Alzheimer's isn't the only cause of dementia, though. It can also occur because of aging, brain damage, injury, infections, a genetic predisposition, poor nutrition, certain medications, or even long-term alcohol and drug abuse.
How can you tell whether yourself or a loved one is experiencing dementia? There are many symptoms. Some of the most common include: memory loss, trouble performing every day tasks, poor judgement and reasoning skills, inappropriate behaviours, judgement issues, difficulty communicating, disorientation, balance problems, paranoia, agitation, as well as reduced personal hygiene. Once two or more of these symptoms appear, it is a good idea to seek the advice of a medical professional. They can provide a proper diagnosis and discuss any relevant treatment options.
While there is no cure for dementia, there are preventative steps that can reduce the severity of the symptoms and slow down the progression. Studies have indicated that performing challenging mental exercises every day (like doing a crossword puzzle, using memorization techniques, and so on), staying active (going for a walk or lifting weights), and eating well (the Mediterranean diet has been found to slow down memory loss symptoms) may be able to make a difference in the quality of life for dementia patients. The earlier you start, the better.
All About Alzheimer's Disease: What It Is, How It Happens, and Treatment Options
Moving on to Alzheimer's disease...this is a degenerative brain disease that leads to dementia. Yes, that is the key difference between the two terms. While the word dementia encompasses certain memory loss symptoms, Alzheimer's disease refers to an actual genetic disease. It is progressive and most commonly affects men and women over the age of 65. However, it can occur much earlier, depending on a genetic pre-disposition and certain environmental factors.
Yet another reason that dementia and Alzheimer's are often thought to be the same has to do with the fact that Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia and its related symptoms. In fact, the Centre For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 50-70% of all dementia cases in senior citizens are related to this degenerative brain disease. With millions of people around the world currently living with the disease (and over 5 million men and women diagnosed in the United States alone), it is clear that Alzheimer's is a serious health issue. This is especially problematic as the numbers are expected to rise significantly in the next several years.
The cause of Alzheimer's disease has to do with genetics. While it does have links to dementia, not everyone with dementia will have Alzheimer's disease and vice versa. This brain disease has everything to do with your genetic makeup. For instance, if someone in your family has been diagnosed with the disease in the past, your likelihood of developing it yourself increases dramatically. However, that does not mean if your grandfather had the disease, your brain is a ticking time bomb. It just indicates that your chances of developing the disease are increased.
When Alzheimer's disease is present, the brain will start to behave abnormally. Certain parts of the brain may shrink while others widen or important connections in your brain may become weak or broken. The result? Dementia and its related symptoms, which includes forgetfulness, difficulty with abstract thinking, and so on. After these symptoms begin to appear, the disease will continue to progress slowly until it becomes impossible for the patient to live without assistance.
One of the most troubling aspects of this disease is that there is no known cure. While researchers and scientists try to change that, prevention is key. Just like with dementia, the same preventative measures should be taken. Mental exercises, regular physical activity, and a balanced diet can make a huge difference to the quality of life for a patient. It can also impact how quickly the disease progresses and how people can live independently. If you or a loved one are at risk for Alzheimer's or are already dealing with the early symptoms, there is no better time to make some changes to your lifestyle. Something as simple as reading the newspaper every morning can help keep your brain sharp.
So, what is the difference between dementia and Alzheimer's disease? To sum it up simply, dementia is the symptom and Alzheimer's is the cause. With so many people living with memory loss today, it is more important than ever to understand the difference between these two terms. Improved knowledge is essential, as it allows us to focus on prevention - and on living fuller, healthier lives.
Dr. David Tal has more than twenty years of clinical experience. He strongly believes that medical treatment can improve the life of Alzheimer's and memory loss patients. His participation at the Age Matters Clinic allows him to share his knowledge with patients and their families.

Improving Brain Health and Memory Through Visualization

Forgetfulness isn't new. By the time you reach the age of 30, you'll have forgotten your homework, your keys, your best friends cell phone number, and a thousand other things. But as we age, these things stop being seen as pesky little annoyances - and start to feel threatening. This is because memory loss is one of the biggest health concerns for Canadians today, particularly as we start to get older. It's time to improve your brain health and your memory through visualization.
Sound a little crazy? Visualization can actually make it simpler for you to remember things, like where you left your keys or where you parked your car. The whole idea is to use your brain in a different way. Ever wonder why landmarks make it simpler for you to remember where you are? They're visual! In general, people of all ages remember visual images much easier than text or a simple action. This is because visuals help your brain to actually pay attention to what you're doing, rather than just going through the motions without much thought.
If you've been struggling with your memory lately, visualization may be something to consider. How does it work? Take a visual snapshot. When you park your car in the lot, don't just get out of your car and walk away. Instead, take a moment to look at your spot. Is there a lot number? Do you notice anything nearby your space? You want to take a picture in your mind. That way, when you return to your car later, those images will jog your memory and make it simple for you to remember where you parked.
Another idea is to visualize something...a little strange. For instance, if you have a dental appointment on June 3rd, picture a calendar with that date circled - and then picture that calendar exploding or being torn apart. You want to create an image that will be different enough to put something in your long-term memory. When June 3rd rolls around, you can be sure you'll remember your appointment. A little visualization can go a long way.
The whole idea behind visualization is to put intention back into our thoughts. So often, we go through the day without really taking anything in. It may not seem important now, but it can impact your life in the long run. How? Not challenging your brain can cause poor brain health and reduced memory function. In older age, it is especially important to keep your mind sharp. This can lead to increased independence and delayed symptoms of age-related illnesses or brain diseases, like dementia or Alzheimer's disease. There are many ways to do this, including mental and physical exercise, a proper diet, and yes, even visualization techniques.
Memory is a wonderful thing. It allows us to recall special moments in our lives, stay organized, and live independently. Without our memories, life can seem difficult to navigate or even feel overwhelming. That is why it is so important to keep our brains healthy and our memories sharp. Using memory tools like visualization can boost your memory as you age.... and make each and every day a little bit better.
Dr. David Tal has more than twenty years of clinical experience. He strongly believes that medical treatment can improve the life of Alzheimer's and Memory Loss patients.

What Is Fisetin - And Can It Prevent Alzheimer's Disease?

When it comes to Alzheimer's, nothing is more important than prevention. Since there is still no cure for this progressive brain disease, preventative measures are essential. They are the best way to keep symptoms at bay and to slow down further development of the disease. Over the years, research studies have found links between certain lifestyle choices and Alzheimer's prevention. The latest discovery is Fisetin.
Scientist Pamela Maher has been studying the affects that Fisetin has on brain health for over a decade. In a research study fronted by Maher, the link between this flavonol and Alzheimer's disease was explored further. The study was conducted by the Salk Institute for Biological Studies and published in the scientific journal, Aging Cell. It found that Fisetin, a flavonol found in certain fruits and vegetables, may be able to protect the brain against serious issues like memory loss, dementia, and yes, even Alzheimer's disease.
During the study, researchers from the Salk Institute gave water to mice that would eventually develop Alzheimer's. Some mice were given water with Fisetin while others were given regular water. They compared the cognitive skills between the mice that had received the flavonol to the ones that had not. Those results were also compared to healthy mice. Through this process, it was discovered that the mice that had ingested Fisetin in their diets had cognitive skills similar to the healthy mice. A year later, follow up tests showed that the mice that had the Fisetin showed no signs of mental decline.
During the study, it was found that the Fisetin mice had less inflammation in the brain. In addition, the flavonol actually affected the protein p35, which is connected to "inflammatory pathways." The study showed that Fisetin was able to both maintain and improve memory in mice...which indicates the same may be true in humans as well. Despite these promising results, it is important to note that this study has not yet been conducted on humans. However, adding Fisetin to the diet is certainly something to consider.
So, what exactly is Fisetin? It is a flavonoid compound that is found naturally in many fruits and vegetables. While strawberries are the best source, you can also find small doses in blueberries, mangoes, cucumbers (with the skin still on), apples, grapes, onions, tomatoes, and kiwis. Unfortunately, the amount of Fisetin found in these foods is rather low - making it challenging to get a full dose from your diet alone. Thankfully, researchers are currently exploring a Fisetin supplement. It is simply a matter of time before it hits the shelves.
Maher has called Fisetin a "groundbreaking" way to prevent both Alzheimer's and age-related memory issues. However, whether or not Fisetin can prevent Alzheimer's disease in humans remains to be seen. There are certainly strong indicators that this may be the case. Further research will need to be done to find out for sure. Until then, it is important to focus on other preventative measures...as well as boosting the amount of Fisetin-rich foods in your diet.
Dr. David Tal manages Age Matters Clinic. He has more than twenty years of clinical experience. He strongly believes that medical treatment can improve the life of Alzheimer's and memory loss patients.

Can DDT Exposure Increase Your Alzheimer's Risk?

It should come as no surprise that DDT isn't good for the environment. However, exposure to this once used pesticide isn't good for your health, either. According to a small research study published in JAMA Neurology, DDT may be linked to the development of Alzheimer's disease. Researchers at Rutgers University are the first to find a connection between this dangerous pesticide and the degenerative brain disease.
Despite the fact that DDT was banned in North America during the 1970s, it is still commonly used in other areas of the world. It is largely used for crop protection and to deal with malaria. A little closer to home, DDT and DDE (the chemical compound left when DDT begins to break down) are still found within North America. While these levels have decreased significantly, the chemical can take many decades to break down completely. That means that this research is relevant to many different countries.
So, what exactly did the research team find? The Rutgers University study discovered that DDT exposure might in fact increase the risk of developing the diseases as well as the severity of the symptoms in men and women over the age of 60. Higher DDE levels were present in Alzheimer's patients involved in the study than those who had not been diagnosed with the disease. In addition, the study indicated that people genetically more at risk to develop Alzheimer's disease might be pushed over the edge, so to speak, thanks to this pesticide.
The study itself looked at 79 people without Alzheimer's disease and 86 people currently diagnosed. From there, they measured their blood levels for DDE. Those with the highest levels were the ones with Alzheimer's or with a high genetic risk of developing the disease. In fact, the levels of DDE were actually about 4 times higher in Alzheimer's patients. It is clear that there is a strong connection between the pesticide and this dementia related disease.... but what does it really mean?
According to the author of the study, Allan Levey, who is the director of Emory's Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, "this is one of the first studies identifying a strong environmental risk factor for Alzheimer's disease." In the past, developing the disease has been seen as something totally unavoidable. It has been linked to genetics, diet, and even the luck of the draw. Never before have chemicals and other environmental factors been explored.
The most exciting thing about this newfound link are the doors it opens. Instead of looking into what is already known to cause the disease, other environmental factors can now be examined. Jason R. Richardson, an associate professor in the Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School said of the study, "these results demonstrate that more attention should be focused on potential environmental contributors and their interaction with genetic susceptibility." While the DDT study certainly expands potential risk factors, it might also be able to improve the lives of Alzheimer's patients. How? The data can be used to identify people at risk of developing the disease by looking for high DDE levels.
While DDT may be a thing of the past, it is still impacting the lives of many today. This new study has certainly opened a lot of eyes. It could be the start of a whole new way of diagnosing - and preventing - Alzheimer's disease.
Dr. David Tal strongly believes that medical treatment can improve the life of Alzheimer's and memory loss patients. His participation at the Age Matters Clinic allows him to share his knowledge with patients and their families.

Can Vitamin D Prevent Depression and Alzheimer's Disease?

You've heard it many times before: prevention is key. That is why researchers, scientists, and doctors alike are searching for ways to prevent serious diseases. It shouldn't come as a surprise that more research than ever is being done to find preventative measures for depression and Alzheimer's. For a long time, it was believed that nothing could be done to prevent these diseases. Over time, though, there have been strong indicators that this is not actually the case. Don't believe it? Studies have shown that Vitamin D may be able to prevent them both.
Let's start by taking a closer look at these diseases. Depression is a mood disorder caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain. There are many different types of depression, from bi-polar disorder and postpartum depression to clinical depression. Common symptoms include feeling sad, lethargic, withdrawn, or irritable. They may also cause someone to lose interest in hobbies, eating, or even sleeping. With an estimated 121 million people around the world dealing with various forms of depression, prevention would impact the lives of many.
When it comes to Alzheimer's, this serious degenerative brain disease typically occurs in men and women over the age of 65. It is currently thought to affect nearly 44 million people around the world. However, there are many people who have not yet been properly diagnosed. In addition, that number is expected to climb in the next several years. Alzheimer's disease is a serious problem as it eventually robs patients of memory function, personality, and independence. Sadly, there is not yet a cure.
So, the question remains: can vitamin D prevent depression and Alzheimer's disease? It just may! Over the last several years, research has been done to explore the various ways that vitamin D impacts the body. Since vitamin D receptors are found throughout the body (including the brain), taking a daily vitamin supplement or eating foods rich in the vitamin may be able to help. That's right, foods like fish, fortified dairy products, eggs, and mushrooms are all high sources of vitamin D...but how can they help prevent depression and Alzheimer's disease?
Well, it all has to do with brain health. In terms of depression, it is thought that a regular intake of vitamin D can stimulate the development of mood-elevating serotonin. This is believed to prevent and reduce the symptoms of depression. When it comes to Alzheimer's disease prevention, vitamin D is thought to both preserve brain health - and help to improve it. According to a study published in the journal, Fluids and Barriers of the CNS, this occurs for one reason. Vitamin D flushes out amyloid beta proteins from the brain. Since these amyloid proteins have been tied to the development of Alzheimer's disease and other serious degenerative brain disorders, vitamin D is a must!
With depression and Alzheimer's disease affecting the daily lives of so many people, prevention truly is key. To ward off these diseases and the associated symptoms, start paying closer attention to your diet. If you're ready to improve your mental and physical health, start with vitamin D!
Dr. David Tal has more than twenty years of clinical experience. He strongly believes that medical treatment can improve the life of Alzheimer's and memory loss patients. His participation at the Age Matters Clinic allows him to share his knowledge with patients and their families.

How to Recognize the Signs of Dementia in Senior Citizens

It's not easy living with dementia. Unfortunately, millions of senior citizens deal with it every day. Not only does dementia affect the quality of their daily lives, but it can also affect the lives of their loved ones. For instance, how can you tell when dementia has gotten worse? When should you step in and get them help? It can be extremely difficult to watch someone you love deal with dementia. While it is a common symptom of aging, it is important to recognize the signs and know when to reach out for help. Here are some of the ways to do that.
To start with, it is important to have a strong understanding of what dementia really is. This term is used to describe a number of brain diseases, from age related dementia to Alzheimer's disease. After the age of 65, the likelihood of developing some sort of dementia increases. However, that does not mean that it should be considered normal, or that symptoms should be ignored. Whenever dementia occurs, it is a serious issue.
So, how can you tell the difference between forgetfulness and dementia? Consider some of the most common symptoms. Dementia commonly causes: memory loss (forgetting information often or asking the same question over and over again), problems completing normal tasks (like cooking dinner or taking a bath), moments of disorientation (not knowing what day it is, where they are, or getting lost in familiar areas), difficulty communicating with others (forgetting certain words or using the wrong words instead), misplacing items (not putting things away properly or forgetting where they are supposed to go), making poor choices (like giving away a lot of money), changes in mood or behaviour (experiencing mood swings, being suspicious, angry, irritable, or afraid for no reason), and becoming less engaged (not as interested in family, friends, or activities).
With so many symptoms of dementia, it can be difficult to recognize the signs. In order to do this, you will need to pay attention. If you notice any changes in memory or behaviour - be aware. It may be a one off, but it may also signal the beginning of some more serious problems. That is why it is essential that you make note of any issues. That way, if those issues become more prevalent, you will know when to speak to a medical professional.
Depending on the severity of dementia and the type of dementia, there are things that can be done. It may include a change in diet, taking certain multi-vitamins, or working out regularly. In addition, increasing their social life may be enough to help. It really depends on the individual. If you notice that symptoms have worsened or if you become concerned about the safety and well being of your loved one, don't wait. The moment you feel they need professional help, they probably do. Doctors and specialists will be able to focus on proper diagnosis as well as helpful ways to deal with dementia.
Many senior citizens experience dementia. However, it's not always easy to know when to take the next step. If symptoms progress or you become concerned with the overall safety of your loved one, it's time to take action. Doing so can improve their quality of life - and give you a little more peace of mind.
Dr. David Tal has more than twenty years of clinical experience. He strongly believes that medical treatment can improve the life of Alzheimer's and memory loss patients. His participation at the Age Matters Clinic allows him to share his knowledge with patients and their families.