Better country dementia care
A pilot program in five Australian nursing homes shows personalized music selections reduce resident agitation and staff stress levels, leading to improved wellbeing and reduced medication use.
Dementia
Articles tagged with Dementia
Stem cell therapy promotes recovery from stroke and dementia in mice
A new UCLA study finds that a one-time injection of an experimental stem cell therapy can repair brain damage and improve memory function in mice with conditions that replicate human strokes and dementia. The therapy, developed from glial cells, stimulates the brain's own repair processes and enhances neural connections.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateApr 21, 2021
Couples and young-onset dementia: Study of coping offers hope for new interventions
A study published in JAMA Network Open explores the experiences of individuals with young-onset dementia and their partners, highlighting the importance of open communication and mutual problem-solving. The research team developed a couples-based framework to describe coping patterns, which can inform new interventions and increase qua...
Spending time on household chores may improve brain health
A recent Baycrest study found that engaging in household chores is associated with greater brain volume and improved cognitive health in older adults. Household activities such as tidying, meal preparation, and yard work may contribute to these benefits by promoting neural connections and reducing sedentary behavior.
Your neighborhood may affect your brain health
Research suggests that social and economic conditions in neighborhoods can affect brain health, with people living in disadvantaged areas showing faster decline on cognitive tests and more brain shrinkage on scans. The study's findings may indicate the earliest stages of dementia and highlight the importance of monitoring for early signs.
Toxic gas in rat brains shows potential for new dementia treatments
Researchers have found that treatments to reduce levels of hydrogen sulfide in the brain may help ward off damage caused by the gas, which is involved in blocking key brain cell gateways. The study shows that H2S disrupts normal brain functioning and can lead to nerve cell death.
Profound loss of pleasure related to early-onset dementia
A recent study has discovered a profound loss of ability to experience pleasure in people with early-onset dementia, known as frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Grey matter deterioration in the 'pleasure system' of the brain was found, distinct from those implicated in depression or apathy.
Treating sleep apnea may reduce dementia risk
A new study found that positive airway pressure therapy for obstructive sleep apnea reduces Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia risk. Researchers analyzed Medicare claims of over 50,000 Medicare beneficiaries ages 65+, finding a significant association between PAP use and lower dementia risk.
University of South Florida receives five-year, $44.4 million NIH grant to study dementia
The University of South Florida has received a five-year, $44.4 million NIH grant to conduct the largest primary prevention trial of computer-based cognitive training for preventing mild cognitive impairment and dementias like Alzheimer's disease in older adults. The study aims to test whether this type of training can reduce the risk ...
Having both hearing and vision loss may double risk of dementia
A new study published in Neurology found that losing function in both senses may put individuals at greater risk of dementia and cognitive decline years later. Researchers analyzed data from 6,520 people between the ages of 58 and 101, finding that those with both hearing and vision impairments were twice as likely to develop dementia.
Gene therapy research shows potential for repairing damage caused by glaucoma and dementia
Scientists at the University of Cambridge have demonstrated a new approach to gene therapy that may help repair damage caused by neurodegenerative conditions like glaucoma and dementia. The study, published in Science Advances, shows promise for treating chronic degenerative diseases.
For people with dementia in assisted living, quality of life improves with mindful care
A study led by Georgia State University researchers found that residents with dementia in assisted living facilities benefit from being included in activities and having caregivers meet them where they are. This approach improves quality of life for individuals with varying types of dementia and levels of functional ability.
Dementia and COVID: What families and physicians should know
A new study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease found that COVID-19 patients with dementia were more likely to experience delirium and confusion compared to those without dementia. While dementia itself was not a primary driver of mortality, other factors such as age and comorbidities played a significant role.
Type of glaucoma linked to increased risk of cognitive impairment
Research published in British Journal of Ophthalmology found that normal-tension glaucoma is associated with an increased risk of cognitive impairment and possibly dementia. The study suggests that the disease pathways for normal-tension glaucoma may be similar to those for dementia.
Glaucoma linked to increased risk of dementia
Researchers at Flinders University in Australia have found a link between normal-tension glaucoma and cognitive impairment, with patients having this type of glaucoma being more than twice as likely to develop dementia. The study suggests that normal-tension glaucoma may share similar neurodegenerative pathways with dementia.
New genetic clues point to new treatments for 'silent' stroke
Researchers have discovered 12 genetic regions linked to lacunar strokes, which can lead to long-term disability and dementia. The study provides new hope for preventing and treating this devastating type of stroke.
Non-drug therapies as good as or better than drugs for treating depression in people with dementia
Research suggests non-drug therapies like exercise and social interactions may reduce symptoms of depression in people with dementia. These interventions are found to be as or more effective than drugs in treating depression, suggesting a shift towards 'social' prescribing.
Risk of suicide attempt after diagnosis of dementia
Researchers evaluated the association between a recent dementia diagnosis and suicide attempt among older adults. The study found that individuals with dementia were at a higher risk of attempting suicide compared to those without the condition.
Midlife loneliness is a risk factor for Dementia and Alzheimer's disease
Persistent midlife loneliness is linked to a higher risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease, while transient loneliness may actually reduce the risk. Researchers found that recovering from loneliness after 18 years may also lead to lower risk of dementia onset.
Dementia death risk is higher among the socioeconomically deprived
A large proportion of dementia deaths in England and Wales may be due to socioeconomic deprivation, according to new research. The team found that socioeconomic deprivation was associated with younger age at death and poorer access to accurate diagnosis.
Eating processed meat could increase dementia risk
A study of 500,000 participants found that eating 25g of processed meat daily was associated with a 44% increased risk of developing dementia. In contrast, consuming 50g of unprocessed red meat daily was linked to a 19% lower risk of the disease.
13 things primary care clinics can check to help preserve brain health
Primary care professionals can identify and monitor risk factors early to prevent cognitive decline. The American Heart Association recommends addressing 13 key factors to optimize brain health, including Life's Simple 7 lifestyle targets.
Study provides insights into architecture of abnormal protein deposits in brain disorders
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have determined the structure of protein fibrils linked to Lou Gehrig's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders. The findings provide clues on how toxic proteins clump and spread between nerve cells in the brain, potentially leading to the development of new treatments.
Head injuries may worsen cognitive decline decades later
A recent study published in Annals of Clinical and Translational Neurology found that head injuries in people under 50 can lead to lower cognitive scores at age 70. The researchers discovered a small but significant impact on brain health and thinking skills, potentially accelerating the normal aging process.
SourceUniversity College London·JournalAnnals of Clinical and Translational Neurology·DateMar 11, 2021
Risk of dementia rises significantly with severity and number of strokes
Researchers found a strong association between ischemic stroke occurrence and severity with an increased risk of dementia. The study's findings emphasize the importance of preventing stroke to maintain high levels of physical and cognitive function and quality of life.
Retinal damage may signal higher risk of stroke, dementia and early death
Research suggests that people with severe retinopathy are more likely to have a diseased-looking brain on MRI. The study found an association between retinopathy and increased risk of stroke, dementia, and mortality in adults.
A trio that could spell trouble: Many with dementia take risky combinations of medicines
A new study found that 1 in 7 people with dementia are taking at least three brain and nervous system medications, which can accelerate memory loss and increase the risk of falls, overdoses, and death. Regular prescription drug reviews could help spot risky combinations.
Head injury 25 years later -- Penn study finds increased risk of dementia
A new Penn Medicine research reveals that a single head injury can lead to dementia later in life, with the risk further increasing with more head injuries. Women and white participants are at higher risk of dementia after head injury compared to men and black participants.
Oncotarget: Estrogen receptor α polymorphism is associated with dementia
Researchers found a significant association between estrogen receptor α PvuII polymorphisms and dementia in a Brazilian cohort. The study suggests that this polymorphism may contribute to the development of dementia, particularly in elderly populations.
New test enables rapid detection of mild cognitive impairment as well as dementia
Researchers from Kanazawa University developed a new computerized cognitive test that can accurately screen for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia in under 5 minutes. The test, called the C-ABC, has been shown to be effective in distinguishing normal cognition from MCI and dementia using scores from just two questions.
When should patients with dementia receive palliative care?
A recent analysis found a lack of consensus regarding palliative care referral in dementia patients, highlighting the need for standardized criteria. Specialist palliative care can optimize quality of life and provide relief from symptoms, but its application varies widely.
Documenting memories of those with dementia
Researchers at UTA will match students with dementia patients for a two-year project using reminiscence therapy and digital memoirs to improve social and emotional well-being. The team hopes this intergenerational approach will promote better outcomes for older adults with Alzheimer's disease.
Alzheimer Europe sets out recommendations to improve data sharing in dementia research
The report reviews recent changes in EU research policy, identifies key barriers and enablers for data sharing, and maps the Horizon 2020 dementia research portfolio. Key findings include a need to overcome technical, financial and motivational obstacles to data sharing, as well as involving people with dementia in research design.
White matter changes in brain found in frontotemporal dementia
Researchers discovered white matter hyperintensities are more common and severe in people with frontotemporal dementia compared to Alzheimer's disease and healthy controls. The study suggests these changes contribute to cognitive problems rather than vascular factors.
Genetic study of Lewy body dementia supports ties to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases
A genetic study of Lewy body dementia suggests that the disease is caused by a spectrum of problems seen in both Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Five genes have been identified as critical to the development of Lewy body dementia, with variations in these genes also linked to increased risk of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 16, 2021
Mid-life cardiovascular disease prevention may protect against later dementia
A study published in Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that mid-life cardiovascular disease prevention can protect against later dementia. The research suggests that controlling cardiovascular risk factors early on can reduce brain vulnerability to cognitive dysfunction.
SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateFeb 15, 2021
Nightly sleep of five hours, less, may increase risk of dementia, death among older adults
A recent study published in Aging found that very short sleep duration, poor-quality sleep, and snoring were associated with a higher risk of incident dementia. The study also revealed an increased risk of all-cause mortality among participants who reported less than five hours of sleep per night.
Case Western Reserve-led team finds that people with dementia at higher risk for COVID-19
A study found patients with dementia twice as likely to contract COVID-19 and experience worse outcomes. African Americans with dementia faced a near-threefold higher risk of infection. The researchers emphasized the need for strategies balancing safety from COVID-19 with protection from social isolation and health-related harms.
Cancer leading cause of death among people with diabetes
A recent 18-year study by Imperial College London reveals that cancer is now the leading cause of death among people with diabetes in England. Death rates from heart disease and stroke declined significantly during this period, but improvements were more modest for cancer-related deaths.
Team to develop automated-driving tech for people with cognitive impairments
A research team from the University of Kansas is developing autonomous driving technology for people with cognitive impairments, aiming to increase mobility and independence. The team will refine highly automated driving systems designed for individuals with mild cognitive impairment and dementia.
Discovery of early plasma biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease
Researchers at INRS have discovered two early plasma markers that can detect Alzheimer's disease five years before its onset, enabling earlier intervention. The study found that these markers are present in plasma extracellular vesicles and can be analyzed through a blood test, opening up new possibilities for studying the disease.
Can large fluid-filled spaces in the brain help identify those at risk of dementia?
A new study suggests that people with enlarged fluid-filled spaces in the brain around small blood vessels are more likely to develop cognitive problems and dementia over time. Researchers found that those with severe cases were nearly three times more likely to develop dementia than those with fewer or no enlarged spaces.
Afternoon napping linked to better mental agility
Research suggests that regular afternoon napping may be associated with better mental agility, including improved locational awareness, verbal fluency, and working memory. The study found significant differences in cognitive performance scores among nap-takers compared to non-nappers.
Eye tests predict Parkinson's-linked cognitive decline 18 months ahead
Researchers found that people with Parkinson's disease who have visual problems are more likely to develop dementia, with underlying changes in brain wiring explaining the connection. Vision tests may provide a window of opportunity to predict Parkinson's dementia before it begins.
Approximately half of AD dementia cases are mild, one-fifth are severe
Researchers found that approximately half of AD cases are mild, while one-fifth are severe. Early intervention in the mild stage is crucial to slow decline and prevent progression.
People in rural areas less likely to receive specialty care for neurologic conditions
A new study found that people in rural areas are less likely to receive specialty care from neurologists, with those living in urban areas more likely to see a specialist for common conditions like dementia and stroke. However, telemedicine can help extend neurological services to underserved areas.
Scientists discover mutations associated with early onset dementia
Researchers at Trinity College Dublin identify genetic mutations linked to ultra-rare condition ALSP, revealing that dysfunctional white blood cells drive brain damage and BBB breakdown. The study's findings may pave the way for targeted therapies for other forms of dementia.
'Race norming' blamed for denying payouts to ex-NFL players with dementia
A UCSF clinical psychologist has taken aim at the NFL for using race norms to deny payouts to Black players diagnosed with dementia. She advocates for a more nuanced approach that accounts for social determinants of brain health, such as language and occupation, to provide fair compensation.
Alzheimer Europe launches new guide and policy briefing on intercultural care and support
The number of people with dementia from minority ethnic groups is increasing in Europe, but uptake of services remains low. Alzheimer Europe has launched a guide to support health and social care workers in providing intercultural dementia care.
Better heart health scores in midlife linked to lower risk of late-life dementia
A Finnish study of 1,449 participants found that those with better midlife heart health scores had a lower risk of dementia later in life. Maintaining lifelong cardiovascular health behaviors may reduce dementia risk, according to the findings.
Apathy could predict onset of dementia years before other symptoms
Researchers found that apathy can signal cognitive decline in people with frontotemporal dementia, even decades before other symptoms appear. The study used brain scans and memory tests to track changes in apathy over time and found that it predicted cognitive problems in individuals with a genetic mutation.
Mystery solved with math: cytoplasmic traffic jam disrupts sleep-wake cycles?
Researchers from KAIST and Florida State University developed a model describing PER molecule motion in cells, showing how aging and diseases disrupt circadian rhythms by hindering condensation around the cell nucleus. This leads to irregular sleep-wake cycles and unstable rhythms.
SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 11, 2020
Alzheimer Europe sets out future vision of EU dementia policy
Alzheimer Europe's new report highlights the need to prioritize dementia research and policy in the EU. The organization recommends allocating fair resources to existing programs, prioritizing dementia within chronic diseases policies, and recognizing it as a disability.
Blood test for alzheimer's disease predicts future cognitive decline in healthy people
Researchers found that higher baseline NT1 levels in blood samples predicted the risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease dementia. The study used a cohort of cognitively normal older adults and showed that NT1 levels could be measured before enrollment in AD prevention trials.
Could chatbot be a lifeline for dementia carers?
A $2.5 million project aims to develop a virtual assistant tool for dementia carers in Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, and Vietnam. The tool will provide video instructions and translate into different languages, improving mental health and wellbeing for over two million carers.
NIH researchers link cases of ALS and FTD to a Huntington's disease-associated mutation
Researchers have discovered a genetic connection between frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), with the same huntingtin mutation associated with Huntington's disease. The study opens up possibilities for gene therapy targeting this mutation, which could lead to personalized medicine.
Global Brain Health Leader Awards to develop dementia-related projects
The Alzheimer's Association, Global Brain Health Institute, and Alzheimer's Society have partnered to fund 23 small-scale pilot projects addressing global challenges in dementia. These projects focus on innovative approaches to awareness, diagnosis, treatment, and care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.
New childhood dementia insight
Researchers have discovered a potential window to the brain in Sanfilippo syndrome, a rare and untreatable form of childhood-onset dementia. The study uses retinal imaging techniques to monitor disease progression and therapeutic efficacy, providing new hope for patients.
Alzheimer disease, related dementias and risk of financial errors
Researchers analyzed Medicare data to characterize financial presentation of Alzheimer's and related dementias before diagnosis. They found a significant association between the two, suggesting financial errors may be an early indicator of dementia.
Racial disparities in dementia in US
A nationwide analysis of dementia incidence from 2000 to 2016 reveals significant racial disparities in the US, with Black and Hispanic populations more likely to develop dementia than White Americans. The study suggests that targeted interventions are needed to address these disparities.