Many Retired Canadians Head South For the Winter

From every province, thousands of retired Canadians have started their annual migration to spend winter down south. A few years ago the attraction to go south was the poor US economy and the declining US dollar. Almost everything in the US is a lot cheaper than Canada. From rent to groceries, the cost of living in the US is low. Plus, the US real estate with spacious yards, a swimming pool and two car garages is only a third of the cost of what it would be in Canada. Finally the biggest attraction of going south is the weather-which is simply beautiful.
However, things have changed over the past few years for Canadians. The first thing is that the Canadian dollar has taken a downward spiral over the past few years. With a Canadian dollar worth only US 75 cents, everything is going to be costing a lot more. And with the ailing Canadian economy, this can amount to a lot of money, especially when buying something big in the USA like a car or a home. Most snowbirds across the nation will need to closely watch their spending this year.
An estimated 500,000 Canadians spend a significant time in the US but with the decline of the Lonnie, most will cut the duration of their visit. With the weak Canadian dollar, buying US property will be out of the question for many retirees and renting may be a better option. For those retires with US property who are planning a home extension or a major repair, paying an extra 25 cents for every canadian dollar may now lead delays in any planned home improvements.
The other thing that the snowbirds need to be aware off is that the Canadian government has now installed a border exit tracking system to avoid paying millions of dollars in social benefits which are currently being given to Canadians who should not be receiving any benefits due to their prolonged absence from Canada. With the Canadian economy stalling, the government is now trying to save money by going after the retirees who stay out the country for long periods. The Canadian government has sent up a security pact with the US which allows each other to track entry and exit information on each traveler. In the past the entry/exit of Canadians was never well documented but things are changing. In addition to collecting information on Canadians leaving by air, Canadian officials are also going to be tracking Canadians who cross and enter at the border by car.
Finally all retired Canadians need to be aware of the new American taxes that the US internal Revenue Service has in place this year. Anyone spending more time than allowed in the US will be facing a whole host of problems. The rule is that Canadians need to keep under the 182 day limit, otherwise they risk creating a US claim on their world wide income, getting barred from the US for 5 years and even losing their highly prized free healthcare.
Best advice for all retired Canadians who plan to go south and stay for long periods or invest is that they need to be know the US laws before they embarking on their journey. If all this sounds to complicated, speak to an immigration lawyer.
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 understand that having an Alzheimer's patient influences the whole family.

Dementia and Music

As the population of Canada and the rest of world ages, so will there be an increase in the number of people with dementia. Alzheimer disease is the most common cause of dementia and there is no cure for the disorder. Besides use of pharmaceutical medications, most people require some type of social support. Eventually many individuals with dementia end up in nursing homes, where the quality of life is guarded.
Over the past 2 decades, anecdotal reports have indicated that music can have a significant impact on people with dementia. A few smaller studies have shown that music can uplift mood and improve behavior in many patients afflicted with dementia. The type of music is not important; what has been observed is that different people respond different to different music. Some respond positively to soul and jazz, others respond to songs from the 70s and 80s and yet others respond to classical music.
Besides just listening to music, it has been observed that singing also has the ability to unlock memories and kick start positive behaviors which were thought to be irreversibly damaged. Music seems to reach the deeper parts of the brain in ways which neither communication or medications can reach.
Experts in speech and language state that most humans remain musical to the very end of life. It is known that the auditory system of the brain is one of the first to develop and become functional at just 16 weeks of life as a fetus. This indicates that even during pregnancy the fetus is fully receptive to music before anything else. Because it is the first system in, then it is most likely the last system out.
Today, music therapy is now begin offered to individuals with dementia in many cities. There are both music students and professional musicians who now offer music as part of home care. As well as being of enormous benefit to the individual with dementia, it is also rewarding for the musician to see someone respond in a positive manner.
Many organizations that support music as therapy exist today and include Music for Life, golden Oldies, Singing for the Brain and Lost Chord. These organizations make it possible for patients with dementia to have access to live musicians.
Almost on a daily basis there are reports of amazing transformation of demented patients after being exposed to music. Some have started to sing, others have found the ability to play a musical instrument and yet others have a positive change in behavior, language and mood. For people with dementia who are not able to talk, music has become an avenue for engagement and communication as it seems to access areas of the brain that are unaffected by the ravages of dementia. Today many home care groups are trying to harness music therapies not only for dementia but for people coming to the end of their life. This non pharmaceutical solution is now being investigated for broader uses in medicine because it positively touches the brain irrespective of color, culture or race.
Dr. David Tal has more than twenty years of clinical experience. He strongly believes that medical treatment can improve the life of Dementia patients of any age. His participation at the Age Matters Clinic allows him to share his knowledge with patients and their families.

Are we close to a cure for Alzheimer's disease? November 2015

Alzheimer's disease affects millions of people in North America alone. As the disorder progresses it can be disabling with most individuals ending up in a nursing home. With a 5-fold projected increase in Alzheimer's patients in the few decades, scientists have desperately been search for a cure but is there any progress? Alzheimer's disease is not only the 6th leading cause of death in North America; it is also a major burden on the healthcare system. Currently we have no way of curing or preventing its progression. This is not because of lack of trying. For the past two decades scientists have studied the plaques and tangles in the brain that cause memory and behavioral problems. Why these plaques and tangles develop is not well understood but we do know that these structures develop much earlier in the disease. The current belief is that these abnormal proteins may somehow be linked to the cause of Alzheimer's disease. Currently there is research to target development of these abnormal proteins, either by preventing their formation or dissolving them. So far, no chemical or drug has been found to prevent or affect these protein structures.
Based on these initial studies, scientists have now developed better imaging tests that can detect development of these abnormal proteins in the brain. This has helped develop screening for develop of Dementia in some familial cases of the disorder.
Other research has focused on genes. Since some causes of early onset Alzheimer's disease are inherited, researchers have now found that several genes in these patients are often abnormal (mutated) and this may lead to accumulation of the plaques and tangles in the brain. Some of these genes may cause development of Alzheimer's disease in women and other genes may increase the risk of the Dementia in African Americans.
While no cure is available, the last 10 years has seen the development of the first Alzheimer's drug for thinking and memory symptoms and there is a blood test that has the potential for diagnosis of the disease. Researchers believe that the treatment of Alzheimer's disease will eventually require the use of a cocktail of medications aimed at several targets, just like we treat cancer and HIV patients.
Current advances in imaging now permit us to visualize the living brain in Alzheimer's patients and it is hoped that with new interventions, these imaging studies will be used to determine if the drugs are working. Although there is active research on Alzheimer's disease, there is lot more that needs to be done, especially when it comes to funding the research that has been restricted in many areas. Heart disease and cancer for example receive billions of dollars in funding each year, whereas Alzheimer's disease research lags way behind. Scientists do have the talent and tools to make a breakthrough in Alzheimer's disease but they also need resources to make this a reality. Finally there is a serious lack of volunteers for research in Alzheimer's disease. Without participation of patients, scientists have no way to study the actual disease. Only effective participation of patients in clinical trials will overcome these deficits in research. Individuals who volunteer are not only going to be getting active care but they are also paving ways for better treatment options for patients with the same disease.
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.

Advances in Testing for Alzheimer's disease

The diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease is made clinically - meaning that the doctor obtains a history and performs a thorough exam which then suggests the presence of Dementia. There are general guidelines to help healthcare providers make a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease that include a complete history and physical exam and use of certain laboratory biomarkers in some cases. The problem with Alzheimer's disease is that when the disorder is diagnosed late, most treatments are futile. Researchers believe that the earlier the disorder can be diagnosed, the better the prognosis with the available treatment. Hence the need to develop imaging techniques that can identify patients at risk for the disorder or will develop the disorder within the next ten years.
Doctors often order imaging tests like a CT scan or MRI of the brain not to make the diagnosis of Dementia but to ensure that there is no other possible cause for the disorder (eg a stroke, vitamin B12 deficiency, cancer or thyroid disease). These imaging tests are also useful in ruling out other potentially reversible causes of cognitive decline such as normal pressure hydrocephalus or a subdural hematoma in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
Even though clinical research using MRI has shown that there is a decrease in size of certain brain structures associated with memory (hippocampus), the MRI is not a routine test in the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Not only is the imaging test not readily available, it is also prohibitively expensive to use indiscriminately.
Several genes associated with early onset Alzheimer's disease have also been identified in the past 2 decades. However, genetic testing is only done in symptomatic individuals with early onset Alzheimer's disease and those who have a family history of the disorder. All individuals who are about to undergo genetic testing are usually offered proper counselling on the predictive value of the test. More important, the counselling is continued after the test in order to understand the implications of the results.
Another new method for detecting early signs of Alzheimer's disease using amyloid PET scan has been developed by some Swedish researchers. In this test a special chemical which binds to a special protein in the brain, B-amyloid is administered to the patient and its transition in the brain is mapped with PET scan imaging. The test is sensitive and can identify patients with early stage Alzheimer's disease or those who will develop the disorder in the near future.
However, the reason why this Swedish study is of importance is that in many previous clinical trials the treatments failed because the drug treatment was started too late in the course. With this new test it may be possible to identify suitable candidates at an early stage of Alzheimer's disease and offer treatment on time. This may also increase the chance that the drugs may work and prevent worsening of cognition and memory. On the other hand, experts in aging indicate that this test should not be used for routine screening for Dementia.

Diagnosis Of Dementia Is Very Scary

A diagnosis of dementia is very scary to those affect by the disorder, family members and caregivers. The most common type of dementia globally is Alzheimer disease. It usually starts after the 6th decade of life and is progressive. The number of people expected to develop dementia is going to double within the next 5 years. Besides Alzheimer dementia, there are many other causes of dementia. The major risk factor for dementia is advancing age.
Individuals who develop dementia lose their ability to think, remember and also develop aberrant behaviors that interfere with their daily living. At some point in time these individuals become a burden because they require full time care. Eventually many end up in nursing homes and have a very poor quality of life.
Regardless of the cause of dementia, the disorder has a significant impact on personal, financial and societal demands. Caring for a patient with dementia is difficult and lifelong. So far there is no cure for any dementia. The few drugs available only reduce the symptoms of dementia but often these medications have potent adverse effects. Because the condition currently affects millions of people and the demands on the healthcare system, researchers have been trying to develop methods to arrest the progression of dementia at an early stage.
Today researchers are still trying to understand how the disease starts and what triggers it. Even though dementia is common with advanced age, it is not a normal part of aging. Many elderly live into their 90s and beyond and have no signs of dementia.
In order to counter Alzheimer's disease, scientists are now exploring the use of stem cells to discover how nerve cells are affected in dementia. In addition, efforts are being made to study if stem cells can be reprogrammed. These stem cells are also being used to test the effects of drugs and other therapies.
The search for novel drugs to treat dementias is continually ongoing. There are some brain changes that occur in Alzheimer patients before the symptoms become obvious. Researchers are now trying to develop therapies that can target Alzheimer's disease much early in the course and hence prevent its progression.
Researchers are also assessing the effectiveness of supervised aerobic exercise programs to help boost general cognition in adults with dementia. There is some evidence that maintaining fitness can prevent memory loss from getting worse and improves daily functioning.
In the last decade, several genes have been identified that play a role in dementia. By sampling a human's genetic material, scientists may be able to predict how one develops dementia. In addition, other work is being conducted to manipulate these genes so that normal brain function would be restored.
Finally newer imaging technique are constantly being developed that can help understand the function of different parts of the brain and how they relate to dementia. Scientists have developed markers that can light up on a scan in patients with early dementia. This may help screen patients at risk and even allow physicians to follow response of patients to the different treatments. IT is only a matter of time before an effective therapy for dementia is available.
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 Dementia Clinic allows him to share his knowledge with patients and their families.

Dementia Affects Nearly 10 Million People In OECD

Dementia is a devastating disorder both for the individual, the family and caregiver. The disorder is progressive slowly resulting in loss of speech, reasoning, memory and other cognitive functions. The risk of Dementia increases with advancing age but not everyone who gets old develops the disorder. Despite extensive research for the past 30 years, no cause or cure has been found. The few drugs available to control the symptoms often have potent adverse effects and are not well tolerated. What is not always appreciated is that dementia numbers are on the rise. Prevalence of dementia globally has increased. Once thought to be a disorder of western society, Dementia rates are rapidly increasing globally. This degenerative disorder is expected to place enormous demands on the healthcare system and long term providers as the population ages.
Dementia has a slow onset and initially is very difficult to diagnose. There is no laboratory parameter which can be used as maker. Healthcare workers use their clinical judgement to make the diagnosis of the disorder. Unfortunately the initial memory loss and confusion are often attributed to normal effects of aging and are simply ignored.
In fact many cases of Dementia remain undiagnosed and hence the prevalence rates are gross underestimates. A recent cross national survey conducted by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) indicates that dementia affects nearly 10 million people in OECD countries which is about 7% of the population over age 65.
The study also revealed that Dementia was the most common form of dementia and accounted for nearly 80% of cases of dementia in OECD countries. World-wide there are anywhere from 30- 36 million individuals with Dementia.
While the numbers of Dementia cases are low at age 65, they nearly double every 5 years after age 65.
The cost of looking after Dementia patients is not minuscule. The world-wide costs for dementia care are more than $600 billion. This costs include informal care provided by family, social welfare provided by social workers and direct costs of medical care. The key caregivers for patients with Dementia are family members, especially during the initial stages of the disorder. In the USA, it is estimated that such informal care for patients with dementia costs over $18 billion/year and is rapidly increasing.
As the disease progresses, care of these patients becomes very difficult for most families and caregivers. There are mounting social and financial costs, which can be challenging even in most western countries. The challenge is even greater in less developed countries where the numbers of people with dementia appears to be growing rapidly. Newer studies project that by 2050, there will be over 115 million people globally living with Dementia. Because of the seriousness of the illness, there is now a global effort to determine the cause and hopefully find a cure.
Dr. David Tal has more than twenty years of clinical experience. He strongly believes that medical treatment can improve the life of Dementia and memory loss patients.

There are various types of Dementia

Dementia is a medical term, which is generally used for a condition in which a person experiences decline in the mental ability severe enough to interrupt the normal workings of a person. There are various types of Dementia and it is only through a talk with your doctor, you can figure out which type of dementia you are suffering from. There are various clinics and medical institutions running, which provide adequate care and attention to the dementia patients so that they can get back to their normal life as soon as possible. It is only through proper care, support of loved ones and medication, can one begin to cope with this disease.
If a doctor has informed you that you are suffering from dementia, it does not mean that you have a brain condition which will impair your memory, thinking abilities and concentration day by day. There needs to be an understanding that there are various types of dementia. Essentially, if you have been diagnosed with dementia, it does not necessarily mean it will affect your memory and concentration. One of the common types of dementia, which affects a large number of people is the Vascular dementia. In this, a person usually gets strokes, which may come in the form of major strokes or silent strokes, which can happen without realization or warnings. The early symptoms of vascular dementia can be seen as poor judgement, difficulty in planning and hardships making decisions.
Another type of dementia is "Dementia with Lewy Bodies". In this type of dementia, the sufferer forms lewy bodies, which are nothing but the deposits of protein that take place in the cortex (part of the brain). The symptoms of DLB can be seen as disturbed sleep patterns, having visual hallucinations, memory trouble and impaired decision making.
Another common type, which is found in the majority of the people, is Parkinson's Disease Dementia. It is mostly the same as DLB and both share a majority of the same symptoms. Mixed dementia is another medical condition in which a person suffers from more than one type of dementia at a time. It is usually a combination of the vascular dementia and Alzheimer’ disease.
Frontotemporal dementia is a condition in which the sufferer develops cell damage in those areas of the brain, which play a pivotal role in planning, speech and judgement. In this type of dementia, a person exhibits personality and behavior changes, finds difficulty in using the right words mid conversation and develops balance problems.
No matter which type of dementia is involved, however, the various symptoms remain the same like memory loss, difficulty in planning, organizing and decision making, change in personality and behavior and concentration problems. It is advisable to consult your doctor when you notice such problems in your daily life, or in those of your loved ones. Early diagnosis and treatment can control the disease to an extent and avoid further degeneration of the mind and your well-being.

Air Pollution & Brain Aging

In recent years, the connection between Alzheimer's Disease and the environment has been growing ever-stronger. The world around us has become far more dangerous than it used to thanks to industry and the use of noxious gasses and chemicals in many of our activities. However, air pollution has become a big problem in recent years for environmental studies and it has been shown to have caused an increase in the risk of ailments such as strokes to occur.
A study carried out in the May edition of popular magazine Stroke used 943 males and females over the age of 60 who had participated in a previous, wider, health study. Carrying out MRI examinations on each patient, as well as discovering their living proximity to large roads and highways, the group also used satellite information to measure matter which was smaller than 2.5micrometers (PM2.5) - small enough to enter the blood and the lungs.
As well as looking into lifestyle, profession and overall health condition, it was found that those who were exposed to the lowest of PM 2.5 levels had a significantly smaller chance to deal with covert brain infarcts. These are more commonly known as silent strokes, and are 46% more likely for those in the study who were around PM 2.5 particles on a regular basis. However, more importantly for Alzheimer's sufferers, a correlation was made between PM 2.5 - for every 2 micrograms per cubic meter - and brain aging. In fact, brain reductions were noted to be the equivalent of around a whole year of natural aging.
These large scale changes are becoming a significant problem for environmentalists and those involved with illnesses such as Alzheimer's. However, noted individuals have praised the time and funding used to conduct studies on these problems to find the most common causes. Now, there is a clear connection between air pollution and what could be considered unnatural brain aging. Now, there can be deeper studies into correcting this problem.
Noted author, also a member of the research team at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, stated that "This helps us to better understand the mechanisms related to air pollution and clinically observed outcomes."

Eating Well and Healthy Brains

Out of all of the clichés out there, one of the most important to remember is "you are what you eat". When it comes to things like the overall neurological power of your body, and how you stand against combatting the onset of illnesses like dementia, this could not be truer.
A recent study carried out by the American Academy of Neurology took in a study of 27,860 people all over the age of 55. In this study, they looked to find people who had varied diets that could be categorized. Each person was then monitored for a period of five years to see how they progresses and how they seemed to be coping with the world in general.
Out of everyone who took part over the 5 year period, around 4,700 participants suffered from a decline of more than 3 points out of 30 in their memory and their overall cognitive function. However, the proportion for that was actually losing the most from their minds came from those with the worst diets.
Those who had the healthiest diets suffered the least, with just 14% of their members showing a significant drop in their ability. Compare this with the 18% within those on what would be considered poor diets, and it's easy to see why eating problems are so prevalent when it comes to health issues.
The link between eating well and having a healthy mind have been around for many years, and various other studies over the years have points to much of the same evidence along the way. This makes it a lot easier to believe in for many people, too, and can be a good reason as to why many people are beginning to change their diets; the idea of living in a dementia clinic is not something that many people enjoy!
The increase in vitamins and nutrients that your body will be receiving plays a big role in ensuring that you can start to see a significant shift in the biological reasoning's behind this. For example, dietary intake makes a big difference because it modifies the risk of cognitive decline thanks to giving the body more key things like B vitamins and vitamin C, as well as help to improve any deficiencies that their body was suffering from previously.
This makes a massive difference, so making sure that your diet is on point will be vital in future!

Aging & brain injuries are connected

It's always estimated that banging our heads can lead to the increased chances of things like dementia taking hold, and for most of us that can be quite a terrifying thought. Aging and brain injuries are very much connected in various ways, as a new study shows; it's believed that continuous brain injuries can accelerate the aging process in our bodies and make ourselves feel and look older than we actually are.
Whether it's through contact sports or your form of employment - the military, for example - a long-term period of hits and damage will eventually create a build-up of beta-amyloid within the brain.
This, in turn, leads to a variety of negative conditions and can also increase the chances of dementia starting. Aging should be something that we go through naturally, but it appears that a few knocks to the head will really change the situation and make things go even faster.
Out of all sports people and athletes, boxers are estimated to suffer from this the most as well as military veterans who have suffered extensive head injuries at one stage - or multiple stages - throughout their career.
It's important to understand, though, that aging won't get faster; your days won't suddenly count for two, for example. Instead, it speeds up the process as the age dependent factor within beta-amyloids comes into play. Whilst it's hard to give any exact characterizations it's now been noted quite freely that damage to the head can cause serious problems in the growth of amyloid B peptide levels.
Therefore, it's vital that anyone involved in fighting or any kind of physical involvement is extremely careful about how their brain is treated. Those with beta-amyloid deposits suffered from a greater level of mental drain as they got older, and therefore it's vital to be able to avoid a buildup of this problem as it can leave you with life-changing conditions in the future.
However, this breakthrough offers a new chance for a development of the correlation between both aging and the beta-amyloid deposits that can build up through head trauma. This will be vital to ensuring there is a way to combat these problems and hopefully offer some kind of long-term solution against things like Alzheimer's disease and dementia.
There is a lot more to be learned and gained from studies like this, but it's vital to actually have a starting place that makes a strong reference point.

Many Alzheimer's Patients Not Told About Their Diagnosis

One in five Canadians suffers cognitive impairment over the age of 65. Alzheimer’s disease is one of the more prevalent conditions and the patients are often not told of this diagnosis.
Due to the nature of Alzheimer’s disease, the symptoms don’t begin appearing until the mid- to late stages of progression. If the disease were diagnosed early enough and the patient informed of it, steps can be taken to slow the progression and help the patient and his family work through the disease. Yet according to a study conducted by the Alzheimer’s Association only 45% of people with Alzheimer’s have been told of their diagnosis! This leaves 55% of those diagnosed not being told by their physician.
The study goes on to reveal the reasons doctor are not disclosing to their patients the diagnosis and they fall into three general categories; not wanting to cause emotional distress, lack of support services and not enough time to discuss treatment options. It is also mentioned that the stigma surrounding the Alzheimer’s diagnosis prevents patients from being told.
As the disease progresses patients are more likely to be told of their diagnosis creating a real dichotomy in care, because if they had been informed in the earlier stages, care and steps could have been taken to prepare and being told in later stages, the nature of the disease makes it more likely to be forgotten.
In the U.S. doctors are not required by law to disclose the diagnosis which raises the question of morality of informing someone of a fatal disease yet being told of other fatal diseases the numbers increase significantly to the 90 percentile so this is endemic to Alzheimer’s.
Taking the stigma out of Alzheimer’s is a primary goal to enhance treatment in Alzheimer’s disease and make the transitions easier for the patient and family. There should be no stigma around a fatal disease and support can be found with Alzheimer’s clinics like AGE Matters Clinic in Toronto.
At the AGE Matters Clinic, a leading Alzheimer’s Clinic in Toronto, we believe in working with the patient to provide the necessary tools to optimize life with Alzheimer’s.
AGE Matters Clinic realizes there is a lack of support services and is filling the gaping support hole. They specialize in the many phases of Alzheimer’s and the memory impairment that progress with the disease. Complete cognitive and memory assessment is performed and an individualized treatment plan put in place for the patient and family.

How Staying Tech Savvy Can Actually Help Boost Your Memory

Technology is all around us. From the monitor on the refrigerator to our digital alarm clocks, PVRs, computers, tablets, and of course, our smart phones. It seems that technological gadgets have taken over our day-to-day lives. For some, this is a great thing. For others, it can be difficult to keep up. However, there might be one advantage of staying tech savvy. It can help boost your memory. That's right. Taking advantage of gadgets and gizmos can actually improve your memory and slow down long-term memory loss. Does it sound too good to be true? It's not! Here are a few ways to improve your memory by making the most of technology.

Use Brain Boosting Apps On Your Tablet

There are so many uses for a tablet. You can get work done, entertain yourself, or stay connected with friends and family. Depending on how you use your tablet, you can also keep your memory sharp. There are a number of great apps to choose from. (You can also download them on your smart phone if you wish!) Things like puzzle games, memory trainers, brainteasers, math questions, quizzes and more can be found with just a few taps of the screen. Some of the most popular apps include the Luminosity Brain Trainer and My Personal Memory Trainer. Whether you have a few minutes in between appointments or are stuck on public transportation...you can make the most of it. Try downloading a few of these brain-boosting apps and get ready to stay sharp.

Read New Things - And Learn Skills Online

One of the great things about the Internet? There are so many things on there. That includes everything from social media to promotional websites. There is also a wealth of information online. That means you can opt to do more than just scroll through Facebook posts. That can actually help you learn something new. This is important! Research studies have proven that learning new things can keep your memory strong. It could be researching a historical event, finding out how to create your own website, watching a DIY video, or reading the newspaper online. Get creative, get out of your rut, and get ready to boost your memory!

Make To-Do Lists On Your Computer

Using technology can preserve your memory for longer, if used correctly. It can also help keep you organized and allow you to stay on top of things. It's easy. Try using programs on your computer to create a daily or weekly to-do list. This will help you keep track of everything you need to get done. From your grocery shopping to that meeting downtown. It will all be there in black and white. This is important because making note of things forces you to remember. Organizational tools can prevent forgetful situations.... and improve your memory in the process.
No one wants to deal with memory loss. So, stay connected! Using brain-boosting apps, learning new things online, and using tools to stay organized can help you function at your best day after day. Say so long to memory loss and hello to technology.
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.

Aging Gracefully: 4 Essential Ways To Embrace Later Life

You've heard the term "aging gracefully" more than once or twice. It all has to do with living a healthy and balanced life. The last thing you want to do is give up your independence or stop enjoying the day-to-day. And you don't have to! Aging gracefully is all about having a solid plan in place, focusing on health and wellness, strengthening social connections, and having fun. Like anything else, it takes time and effort to live life to the fullest.... but ultimately, it is worthwhile. These 4 tips will help you embrace later life with ease.
1) Take Time To Make a Plan
There is no better place to start than with planning. This might not be the most exciting task in the world, but it is a must. Too often, people put off major decisions indefinitely. For instance, deciding when to sell or downsize your home, thinking about where you and your partner might want to live in the years to come, how to get around, budgeting your finances, thinking about who will tackle chores at home and so on. All of these things matter - especially as you start to get older. It is important to think ahead and anticipate change. Then come up with a concrete plan of action. Maybe you want to move into a retirement facility if home upkeep becomes too difficult. Or perhaps you want to stick to certain spending habits each month. Whatever your plan consists of, write it down and get organized. This will give you peace of mind in the years to come.
2) Focus On Health And Wellness
Living a healthy lifestyle is essential. Not only can it add years to your life but it can also make each day better. So, be sure to focus on health and wellness as you approach later life. That means making smart food choices, taking appropriate multi-vitamins, and staying as active as possible. Try incorporating heart healthy foods into your daily meals or adopt a Mediterranean diet for improved memory. In terms of exercise, you can always go for a daily walk around the neighbourhood or enjoy a physical activity like swimming three to four times a week.
3) Have Strong Social Connections
A little companionship can go a long way. Having someone to talk to or catch up with can instantly turn your day around. That is the wonderful thing about friends and family. They lift you up, make you smile, and give you purpose. An important part of aging gracefully has to do with maintaining strong social connections. Too often, we lose touch with people. Do what you can to keep the people you love in your life. Maybe a phone call here or there, a video chat, or an in person visit. Another idea? Join a weekly group or club. This is a great way to meet new people, get social, and have fun while you're at it.
4) Remember To Have Fun
Speaking of having fun.... that is another must on this list. Just because you are getting older doesn't mean you should stop having fun. There are so many things you can see, do, and experience! One idea is to take a trip. Go on a cruise and see the world. Or you might want to visit relatives you haven't seen in a while. Other ideas include: going on a day trip, enjoying a group activity, or taking up a new hobby. Wherever your interests lie - embrace them!
Aging gracefully is a state of mind. The key is to focus on what really matters, like being prepared, living well, spending time with people you care about, and having fun. Celebrate every moment big and small. You deserve it!
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.

Caring For An Aging Parent? Helpful Hints To Help You Cope

It is never easy. Watching your parents get older can bring forward a number of serious concerns. Are they able to live on their own? Are they safe? And when will they require extra care? These type of decisions are rarely straightforward or simple to make. It can be difficult to flip the switch in your mind from being cared for to becoming a caregiver yourself. That makes it especially important to find healthy ways to cope.
Start by making a game plan. Being organized and having an action plan in place can be a great way to ease your mind. It can take the overwhelming task of caring for a parent (or both of your parents) and make it feel a little more manageable. How can you do it? Ask yourself a few questions. How much care do they need? How frequently do they go to doctor's appointments? Are there any safety concerns related to their home environment? Think about all of the little things. This will help you create a schedule, come up with a timeline, and start getting organized.
It doesn't matter if you are caring for your parent's part time or full time. The demands are still extremely challenging. That makes it essential for you to have support. Remember that you don't have to do it alone. Watching your parents become weak, forgetful, or require more care is not easy to sit back and watch. You are used to seeing them in a certain way. So, make sure you have support and plenty of it. Speak to friends and family members. Let them know what your concerns are, how you are coping, and any ways that they can help you deal with the day-to-day responsibilities.
Speaking of having support, don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Many caregivers find it overwhelming to take on so much. Especially when it happens all at once. Maybe your parent had a bad fall and is having trouble recovering. Or perhaps their memory is fading fast. That can alter the level of care they require. Months and months of constant care giving can be draining. Having someone to step in, help, or vent to can make a world of difference. Know who you can reach out to - and when you need to.
Just as important as having support is to utilize local resources. Every city and town has a number of resources that can help you get through this difficult time. Those services will vary from place to place. However, they may include counselling sessions, care giving tips, emergency phone numbers, and so on. You may also want to speak to your parent's doctor for a bit of guidance and insight into what you can expect in the months and years ahead. Having those resources on hand can help you cope and make sure you don't feel overwhelmed.
Sometimes, it isn't easy to handle it all. Caring for an aging parent is no simple task. It requires patience, emotional stability, and an awful lot of outside help. Deal with these changes in a positive way by staying organized and reaching out to others. It is the best way to cope in a healthy manner.
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.

Could Age Related Memory Loss Actually Be Reversible?

Did you lose your car keys? Forget about that lunch date with your spouse? Miss out on your hair appointment? These things happen. Unfortunately, they tend to happen more frequently as we age. Age related memory loss affects men and women all over the country, largely because of decreased blood flow to the brain and the inability to absorb brain-boosting nutrients. Memory loss is a normal part of getting older...but could it be reversible? A study from Columbia University Medical Center (CUMC) is looking into the possibility.
It all started when they uncovered a major contributing factor to age related memory loss. The researchers in the CUMC study found that a protein deficiency in the brain could be a major contributing factor to memory loss. The study, published in the scientific journal, Science Translational Medicine, found evidence that the hippocampus (which is part of the brain directly linked to memory) begins to lack the protein RbAp48 over time. This in turn caused serious memory loss in older age. Initially, the main objective of the study was to prove that Alzheimer's disease is a totally separate issue from age-related memory loss. During the study, they discovered that age-related memory loss was a separate process - and that the RbAp48 gene signalled deterioration over time.
According to Dr. Eric Kandel, the co-director of Columbia University's Mortimer B. Zuckerman Mid Brain Behavior Institute, "these results have public health consequences." Namely, those consequences are that age-related memory loss could in fact be reversed. It may sound far-fetched, but the researchers involved in the study believe this could be part of our future. They began another experiment where they increased RbAp48 in the brains of aged mice. They found that when this took place, the memories of the mice were improved.... and even similar to that of younger mice. Dr. Kandel believes this should be encouraging for men and women dealing with age related memory loss. He feels it "shows that this protein is a major factor, and it speaks to the fact that age-related memory loss is due to a functional change in neurons."
So, is age related memory loss actually reversible? And what does this mean for the future? If the CUMC study is anything to go by, we are beginning to get a better understanding of memory loss and why it happens. This is significant. It means that it is only a matter of time before scientists and doctors find a way to improve the daily lives of people living with this issue. This could in turn prolong independent living in older age and make life feel a little less stressful. Only time will tell what will become of this research. However, there is no doubt that men and women all over the world are hoping that memory loss can - and will be - reversed.
No one wants to deal with memory loss. It is however, a part of the aging process. Almost all of us will deal with some form of it at one point or another. With more research uncovering the root of the problem, we can start to feel hopeful about the future. Perhaps some day, age related memory loss will be reversed once and for all.
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.

Talking To Your Children About Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease doesn't just affect the patient. It affects every single member of the family. From sons and daughters to cousins and grandchildren.... it can be difficult to deal with the ins and outs of the disease. This is especially true once the disease progresses. Providing proper care is essential. As is supporting those who are closely affected by the diagnosis. This can be difficult when children are involved. Younger family members often struggle to grasp the severity of the disease. Don't know how to help or where to begin? This guide will teach you how to talk to children about Alzheimer's disease.
Understanding an Alzheimer's diagnosis can be hard to deal with. However, when it comes to young children or even teenagers, this is much more difficult to process. Children often react differently to adults. When you explain that someone they love has been diagnosed with the disease, they may feel confused, they might cry, or they might even explode in anger. Some children may want company while others may want to be alone. Be aware that their reaction will be unpredictable. It may even appear out of character for them. Remember: people take life-changing news in their own individual way. What can you do to make things better? Remain calm whatever their reaction may be.
Is your child ready to talk? Do they have questions? This is natural. Often times, children can feel overwhelmed, confused, or scared about a diagnosis. They wonder about the future. What will it mean for their grandparent or loved one? How will it affect their lives? And what can they expect? Listen to their questions and do your best to answer honestly. The most important thing is to be there for them. Knowing that they have your support can be a big comfort in the months and years to come. Do your best to provide them with the information they need - and let them express their feelings.
Depending on the age group of the child you are speaking to, you may want to pick up a picture book about Alzheimer's disease. If they are a little bit older, try watching a video on the Internet together or speaking to a health care professional. You want to give them access to information. This is vital to their understanding. Something to keep in mind? It is important that the information you provide won't overwhelm them or make them feel anxious. Tread carefully and help them cope with the situation as best you can.
Life won't return back to normal once they understand the diagnosis. You will need to prepare them before each and every visit to see their loved one. Speak to your child about possible symptoms they can expect to see. That might be forgetfulness, mood swings, and so on. They need to understand that their grandparent or family member will likely be acting different than they normally do. Talking this through before each visit will make the transition smoother.
Dealing with Alzheimer's disease is a challenge. Especially when children are involved. The best thing is to be as honest as possible. Don't pretend everything is okay. That can end up hurting or confusing your child. In some cases it can even lead to resentment. So, be as gentle and loving as you can as they deal with this process.
Are you looking for more information about aging and 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.

How Running Can Prevent the Development of Alzheimer's

An apple a day may keep the doctor away, but running could be the secret to preventing Alzheimer's. Why is this important? There is nothing quite so terrifying as experiencing memory loss. Unfortunately, millions of people around the world are currently living with dementia, Alzheimer's, and other degenerative brain diseases. Over time, Alzheimer's disease can affect everything from your personality to your ability to care for yourself. Thankfully, there is running. According to a new study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, running fifteen miles a week has been found to lower your risk of developing the disease.
It sounds too good to be true... but there may be some truth to the claim. A number of things that have been found to prevent the development of the disease, from a Mediterranean diet to regular exercise. This study further backs up the claim that working up a sweat is good for your body and your mind. 153, 000 men and women participated in the National Runners' and Walkers' Health Studies. From those participants, it was found that those who ran 15 miles or more per week had 40% less likelihood of developing Alzheimer's disease. On the other hand, participants who ran between 4 and 8 miles per week had 6% less of a chance of developing disease. Those results indicate that not only is physical exercise a key factor in preventing memory loss...but endurance plays a part as well.
For many years, exercise has been linked to the prevention of the disease. This is all due to changes in the brain. Once you get older, certain connective parts of the brain weaken or shrink. That leads to memory loss and can even trigger the onset of Alzheimer's. Exercise has been found to slow down or prevent this from happening. While there have long been signs that exercise can stave off the progression of the disease, this is the first time endurance has been introduced. That means it is essential to break a sweat and get your heart rate pumping...but it is equally important to run for long periods of time. Clocking 15 to 30 miles per week could dramatically lower your risk - and keep you healthy for longer.
The author of the study, Dr. Paul T. Williams (Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory) said that endurance based exercise could be the best way to prevent the disease. He went on to say, "I think this and other research suggests that there are lifestyle choices people can make that will significantly impact their risk for Alzheimer's disease." This gives hope to those with a genetic pre-disposition - and those already dealing with early symptoms. Rather than wait for a miracle cure or wait for the symptoms to worsen...men and women can take action. All you need is a good pair of sneakers! For best results, start small and add more miles as you build up your endurance. This will help runners of all ages gain strength, get active, and focus on mental and physical health.
The most effective way to prevent Alzheimer's disease? Run, walk, and stay active. The more you exercise, the better your mental and physical health will be now and in the long run. While there is still more research to be done, endurance running is one way to lower your risk now.
Dr. David Tal has more than twenty years of clinical experience. He manages Age Matters Clinic

New Pill Approved By The FDA for Alzheimer's Patients

Millions of men and women are living with Alzheimer's. This debilitating disease has serious repercussions, ranging from memory loss to mood swings, and a lack of independence. Since there is not yet a cure for the degenerative brain disease, research and treatment options have become especially important. On the treatment front, there may be some good news. The FDA (the Food and Drug Administration in the United States of America) has just approved a pill that is thought to treat the progression and symptoms of Alzheimer's disease better than other drug therapies.
So, what is this new pill? And how will it affect the lives of Alzheimer's patients? In the past, the drugs memantine hydrochloride and donepezil hydrochloride were used separately to help Alzheimer's patients live fuller lives. Each pill would be taken by the patient in separate doses. The newly approved FDA pill will literally combine memantine hydrochloride and donepezil hydrochloride into one. That doesn't just mean one less pill that patients will need to take. It may also improve their overall levels of cognitive function.
The companies responsible for this new pill, Actavis and Adamas, collected data that showed improvements in cognitive function when the drugs were taken together rather than separately. This could lead to a slower progression of Alzheimer's disease and even improved memory function for patients. That would dramatically affect the lives and well being of men and women all over the world. What is the name of this new combination drug? It will be called Namzaric. The drug companies plan to release the drug in two strengths, making it possible for those with moderate and severe symptoms to benefit from the drug therapy.
"Namzaric combines, in one capsule, two complementary therapeutic agents often co-prescribed," said David Nicholson of Actavis in a statement. He went on to say that both drugs have been proven to be safe and effective, and that "data has shown combination therapy demonstrated greater improvement in cognition and global function versus (taking the pills) alone." The combination pill will be available for patients sometime in 2015. It will come in a standard pill form as well as a powder form for those who have difficulty swallowing medication.
There is no doubt that the promise of this combination drug is exciting for Alzheimer's patients and those searching for a cure. By combining the two drugs, existing drug therapy treatments can be improved - and so can the quality of life for those currently living with the disease. If the data surrounding the combination pill is accurate, the drug could positively impact cognitive function, thereby adding additional months or even years of independent living to those with Alzheimer's. When combined with new advances in our understanding of the disease, it seems a breakthrough may finally be on the horizon.
Namzaric is not the be all end all of Alzheimer's treatment. However, it is certainly a step in the right direction. With the impending release of this combination drug therapy, more and more patients will be able to live fuller lives. The fight against Alzheimer's disease may not be over but between drug therapies and continued research, one thing is clear: no one is bowing out without a fight.
Are you looking for more information about aging and 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.