Research on dementia and cognitive decline. Covers Alzheimer's screening, brain injury recovery, attention training, and gaps in diagnosis and care.
Researchers from University of Sheffield and Manchester investigate link between heart disease and vascular dementia, testing a drug used to treat arthritis as a potential therapy. The study aims to identify a new treatment for vascular dementia, which affects 15% of all dementia cases.
A study found that people with severe apathy are 80% more likely to develop dementia than those with low apathy. Greater apathy was also associated with worse cognitive scores, highlighting its potential as an early sign of the disease.
Researchers investigated exposure to general anesthesia versus regional anesthesia in elective surgery and found no long-term link to dementia. The Journal of the American Geriatrics Society study followed 7,499 individuals aged 66+ for up to 5 years.
A new study found that catheter ablation reduces the incidence of dementia by nearly a third in patients with atrial fibrillation. Successful ablation is associated with a lower risk of dementia, while failure may not contribute to this outcome.
A Cleveland Clinic researcher has been awarded a grant to identify biomarkers for predicting dementia in patients with Parkinson's disease. The five-year project aims to develop a predictive model using imaging, blood, and genetics data to identify individuals at risk of developing dementia as their disease progresses.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University aim to create quicker diagnostic tests for dementia with Lewy bodies and Parkinson's disease dementia using non-traditional tissue samples. The new method could enable doctors to diagnose patients earlier and more easily, improving patient care.
Researchers at UC Davis School of Medicine and UTHealth will study the role of incidental white matter lesions in dementia among diverse people with cognitive complaints. The team aims to develop a 'risk profile' that identifies the likelihood of WML-related cognitive impairment and dementia over five to 10 years.
A new online programme will improve and personalize care for people with dementia in care homes, which were severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The programme aims to support care staff and residents through peer networking and solution sharing.
A recent study by Edith Cowan University found that 94% of Australian dementia caregivers are sleep-deprived, which can lead to negative physical and psychological outcomes. Chronic conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes, as well as high levels of depression, anxiety, and stress, were common among participants.
A study of Latino caregivers found that poorer cognitive performance at a single testing point was associated with impairments in daily activities seven years later. The study suggests maintaining cognitive health in middle-age and older adulthood is crucial for independence.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed the Brain Age Index (BAI), a model that estimates brain aging through sleep data and electrical measurements during sleep. The BAI showed promise as a marker of dementia, correlating with neuropsychiatric scores from standard cognitive assessments.
A six-year study found metformin slowed cognitive decline and reduced dementia risk in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Researchers believe the medication may also benefit those at risk of cognitive decline without diabetes. The study suggests a potential repurposing of metformin to prevent cognitive decline in older people.
A large observational study suggests that individuals with type 2 diabetes are 36% more likely to develop vascular dementia and 9% more likely to be diagnosed with non-vascular dementia compared to their diabetes-free counterparts. The risk of Alzheimer's disease is not higher in those with type 2 diabetes.
Researchers found that actively using two languages enhances cognitive reserve and delays the onset of symptoms associated with cognitive decline and dementia. The study suggests that bilingualism is an important predictor of delay in the onset of mild cognitive impairment, a preclinical phase of Alzheimer's disease.
A new meta-analysis of global evidence found that people with PTSD are up to twice as likely to develop dementia later in life. The study analyzed data from over 1.6 million people and found a significant association between PTSD and increased dementia risk, which may be related to hypervigilance and social withdrawal.
The Alzheimer's Disease Programs Initiative (ADPI) aims to build upon existing home and community-based social supports to enable people with Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias to remain independent in their communities. People with ADRD and their caregivers will receive coaching, training, and support services.
Researchers found that older people without cognitive problems who experience a fall may have already begun neurodegeneration leading to Alzheimer's dementia. The study suggests that falls in this population are linked to brain changes that can be prevented with environmental modifications.
The NIH has augmented the Health and Aging Brain Among Latino Elders (HABLE) Study to include additional biomarkers, including positron emission tomography (PET) imaging, to better understand Alzheimer's disease in Mexican Americans. The study will help identify health disparities and potential treatments for the condition.
A new program will continue dementia surveillance and invigorate the brain donation program using FHS participants' cognitive assessments and brain imaging. The program aims to identify genetic and biomarker factors related to Alzheimer's disease and develop strategies to preserve cognition.
Scientists have discovered a potential effective treatment for Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) using Ursodeoxycholic Acid, an already approved liver medication. The drug has been shown to increase protective proteins in neurons and prevent cell death, offering new hope for patients.
A new study suggests that lifestyle improvements can lessen cognitive decline in older adults by improving their lifestyles and boosting cognition. The results indicate that brain neuroplasticity can be retained through targeted interventions, enabling individuals to bounce back from decline.
The National Institute on Aging has funded four new exploratory Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers to broaden current research initiatives with underrepresented populations. These centers will prioritize rural communities and focus on specific scientific areas such as vascular risk factors and disparities in the Deep South region.
Researchers found that Medin protein deposits reduce blood vessel elasticity in aging brains, contributing to vascular dementia. These deposits also cause sluggish vessel expansion, affecting blood flow and oxygen supply.
A large observational study found that both overall alcohol consumption and alcohol-induced loss of consciousness are associated with an increased risk of developing dementia. The study of over 131,000 adults suggests that limiting or avoiding heavy drinking may be beneficial for preventing cognitive decline.
A pre-clinical study suggests that an investigational drug reduces the buildup of toxic poly(GR) proteins and TDP-43 clumps, which contribute to neurological decline in patients with ALS and FTD. The study found that treatment with a pipeline drug reduced neurodegeneration in mouse models.
A University of Houston researcher is investigating the adverse effects of mixing cholinesterase inhibitors and antimuscarinics in patients with Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to evaluate drug interactions and their effects on severe adverse events, ultimately improving the quality of medication use in dementia care.
Older caregivers of newly diagnosed dementia patients experience a 30% increase in depressive symptoms, which persists over two years. This is significantly higher than those without a partner diagnosis, with an additional 27-33% increase depending on the length of caregiving time.
Researchers at Newcastle University propose a new theory that links hearing loss to dementia, suggesting that the auditory system's impact on brain function may trigger Alzheimer's disease. The study identifies key aspects of this connection, including memory centers and cognitive impairment.
A new study by Max Planck Institute researchers found that the risk of cognitive impairment and dementia in US men and women increased over two decades. The analysis controlled for learning effects when repeating the same test, revealing a trend reversal compared to previous studies.
A new study found that robotic support pets for older adults and people with dementia acquire bacteria over time, posing a risk of illness. However, a simple cleaning procedure involving anti-bacterial products and wipes can effectively reduce microbial loads to safe levels.
Researchers have identified a new form of dementia, LATE disease, which shares symptoms with Alzheimer's but is caused by different brain processes. The study provides criteria to differentiate between frontotemporal dementia and LATE disease, offering hope for future therapy development.
A new study finds that dementia may be the underlying cause of nearly three times more deaths in the US than previously thought. The study estimates that 13.6% of deaths are attributable to dementia, which is 2.7 times more than the 5.0% of death certificates that indicate dementia as an underlying cause of death.
A new dementia education program has shown significant improvements in dementia knowledge and attitudes among primary school students. The intergenerational program brings together children and older adults, promoting empathy and understanding.
A new study found that nearly three-quarters of older adults with dementia have filled prescriptions for medicines not designed for dementia, posing special risks. Antidepressants, opioids, and other drugs were commonly prescribed, often without addressing the underlying issues, and may even worsen cognitive symptoms.
A new diagnostic definition for Functional Cognitive Disorder (FCD) has been established, allowing researchers to better characterise the condition and its prognosis. The criteria also hold promise for strengthening research into dementia by identifying patients for trials.
Baycrest researchers are studying the effects of COVID-19 and social isolation on cognitive health, finding a potential link between respiratory symptoms and decreased oxygen to the brain. The study aims to identify factors predicting dementia development in older adults.
A new study proves that the McKee CTE staging scheme accurately represents the progression of tau pathology in CTE, correlating with clinical dementia and age at death. Researchers found five brain regions with increasing p-tau pathology that conform to CTE stage, age, and years of football play.
A new study published in Neurology found that people who experience a sudden drop in systolic blood pressure when standing up may be at higher risk of developing dementia years later. The study also showed that controlling these blood pressure drops could be a promising way to help preserve people's thinking and memory skills as they age.
The Dementia Friendly Church programme has had a significant impact, improving interactions between church attendees and people with dementia. The project involves making practical changes to church layouts, worship, and hospitality to create 'friendly spaces' for those living with dementia.
A new report from the Lancet Commission identifies 12 modifiable risk factors that can delay or prevent 40% of dementia cases. These include reducing excessive alcohol intake, limiting air pollution, and promoting physical activity throughout life.
Experts identify 12 modifiable risk factors that can be targeted throughout life to delay or prevent dementia. The report highlights the potential for preventive measures to reduce dementia risk, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Researchers have identified measurable Alzheimer's risk factors in adolescents and young adults, emphasizing the need for early interventions targeting heart health and education. Studies found that high blood pressure, diabetes, and poor educational quality are associated with worse late-life cognition, particularly in African Americans.
A study of 8,275 participants found that those with severe gum disease had twice the risk for mild cognitive impairment or dementia. People with minimal tooth loss and mild gum disease were no more likely to develop thinking problems than those with no dental issues.
A phase 3 trial found pimavanserin to be effective in reducing psychotic symptoms in people with dementia, regardless of underlying dementia subtype or severity. The treatment works differently than other antipsychotics, showing promise for improving the lives of those affected by psychosis.
Two studies indicate that WTC responders are at risk for developing dementia, with reduced gray matter thickness in the brain consistent with neurodegenerative conditions. Researchers found protein changes in blood consistent with Alzheimer's disease in responders with PTSD and mild cognitive impairment.
Research reveals flu vaccinations can reduce Alzheimer's incidence by up to 17%, with pneumococcal vaccination showing a similar protective effect. Vaccination also found to reduce mortality in people with dementia.
Research finds concussion associated with increased risk of developing ADHD, mood and anxiety disorders, dementia and Parkinson's disease. Concussions upsets brain function and blood flow, potentially leading to long-term consequences.
A recent study found that over 40% of hospitalizations among older adults with dementia were for potentially preventable conditions, such as pneumonia and heart failure. The study's lead author emphasized the importance of addressing sepsis and implementing patient-centered programs to improve outpatient care.
A new Boston University School of Public Health and School of Medicine study finds that genetic risk factors for dementia can be lowered by improving cardiovascular health. Participants with a high genetic risk score were 2.6 times more likely to develop dementia, but those with good cardiovascular health were half as likely.
A UCSF study found that older adults with retained senses of hearing, vision, and touch have half the risk of developing dementia compared to those with marked sensory decline. The study tracked over 1,800 participants in their seventies for up to 10 years, revealing a stronger association between olfaction and lower dementia risk.
Research identified 21 evidence-based suggestions for preventing Alzheimer's disease, with a focus on vascular risk factors and lifestyle modifications. Targeting factors such as cognitive activity, high blood pressure, depression, diabetes, and stress may help reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers found that high genetic risk scores, including apolipoprotein E ε4, increase dementia risk by 2.6 times, while favorable cardiovascular health reduces the risk by 0.45 times.
Researchers discovered that individuals with Alzheimer's disease and dementia experience more severe delirium and increased risk of hospitalization compared to those without ADRD. Targeted strategies can help prevent or reduce delirium severity, particularly in patients with ADRD.
Research reveals that many caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's and Related Dementias (ADRD) lack guidance on firearm safety, despite high rates of accidental shootings. The study emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to address firearm safety in the context of ADRD, providing routine counseling and access to resources.
Researchers have identified a new biomarker, asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), associated with cognitive decline in old age. The study found that ADMA levels were linked to decline in cognitive performance assessments after four years.
Research suggests that antioxidant treatment after acute ischemic stroke could delay the onset of Alzheimer's dementia by reducing oxidative stress and promoting mitochondrial function. Studies have shown promising results with molecules like edaravone and nerinetide, but more research is needed to confirm these findings.
A new study published in Neurology suggests that deep brain stimulation for Parkinson's disease does not significantly increase the risk of developing dementia. Researchers found that factors such as age, hallucinations, and cerebral hemorrhage during surgery were associated with a higher risk of dementia.
A new study will test a training model for primary care nurses to improve the lives of dementia patients by enhancing assessment, management, and coordination of care. The researchers aim to reduce emergency room visits, health care costs, and improve quality of life for patients and caregivers.
A recent study by the University of Kentucky's Sanders-Brown Center on Aging has identified a previously under-recognized form of dementia, quadruple misfolded proteins (QMP), linked to TDP-43 proteinopathy. The study found that about 20% of participants with dementia had QMP, resulting in the most severe dementia cases.
Researchers at the Allen Institute in Seattle are building a high-resolution map of Alzheimer's disease by comparing brain cells across patients with different stages of the disease. By identifying specific neurons and cell types affected by the progressive disorder, they aim to find new drug targets and potential therapies.