Articles tagged with Dementia
USC researchers found that nearly 50% of dementias begin with damaged gatekeeper cells, leading to small vessel disease and white matter disease. Controlling fibrinogen levels may reverse or slow white matter disease in a mouse model.
A new study highlights the need for more structured educational programmes and information on disease progression to prepare informal carers. The research found that existing health and social care services are often fragmented, leading to communication challenges between healthcare professionals and caregivers.
Researchers from the University of Tokyo have discovered a molecule called progranulin that plays a crucial role in strengthening and eliminating synapses in the brain. This process is essential for developing neural circuits, but genetic or environmental mutations can disrupt it, leading to disorders such as autism and dementia.
A new study published in Neurology found that in-person license renewal laws and vision testing significantly reduce crashes involving drivers with dementia. Hospitalized drivers aged 60-69 were 37% less likely to have dementia in states with in-person renewal laws.
A nationwide Swedish study found that traumatic brain injuries (TBI) significantly increase the risk of dementia diagnosis for over 30 years following the injury. The risk decreases over time but remains significant, with severe TBI or multiple TBIs increasing the risk even more.
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center developed the MIND diet to promote brain health, which has been associated with reduced Alzheimer's risk and slower cognitive decline. Study results show that stroke survivors who adhered to the diet had substantially slower rate of cognitive decline compared to those who didn't.
Researchers found that adding zonisamide to levodopa improved movement symptoms in people with dementia with Lewy bodies without worsening psychiatric symptoms. The study, published in Neurology, suggests a potential new treatment option for this debilitating condition.
The Harry T. Mangurian Jr. Foundation has donated $20 million to Mayo Clinic to name a new medical building for cancer and neurologic care. The building will double the size of existing departments and support increased staff and research.
A recent study published in Scientific Reports challenges the scientific consensus on Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that neuronal loss is relatively limited. The research found minor declines in synaptic markers in patients' prefrontal cortices, which had little impact on cognitive skills.
A high-salt diet reduces resting blood flow to the brain and causes dementia in mice, according to a new study. The study found that mice fed a high-salt diet developed dementia even when blood pressure did not rise, suggesting a direct link between salt intake and cognitive impairment.
A cellular traffic jam affects neurons in most ALS forms, with TDP-43 causing transport defects and disrupting protein import. A drug, KPT-335, may compensate for these disruptions, showing promise for treatment.
Experts warn that the World Health Organization's new plan fails to address the growing burden of disease and healthcare needs among older populations. Despite making up over 12% of the world's population, older people are overlooked in the draft General Programme of Work.
People with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) may experience improved memory and thinking ability with regular exercise, according to the American Academy of Neurology. The guideline recommends that doctors recommend exercise as part of an overall approach to managing symptoms.
Scientists have discovered that blueberry vinegar can restore cognitive function in mice with induced amnesia by reducing the breakdown of acetylcholine and boosting brain-derived neurotrophic factor. The treatment improved short-term memory performance in maze tests and avoidance tests.
A study published in Neurology found that eating at least one serving of green, leafy vegetables a day was linked to a slower rate of decline on tests of memory and thinking skills. The difference was equivalent to being 11 years younger in age.
Two new studies will investigate evidence-based decision aids for Alzheimer's disease care and a comprehensive collaborative care program for veterans with TBI or AD and their caregivers. The programs aim to improve quality of life, reduce burden and depression among caregivers.
A comprehensive review of published research found no proven intervention for preventing late-life dementia. Physical activity, prescription medications, cognitive training, and over-the-counter supplements were tested, but none showed significant effectiveness.
A large-scale genetic study has clarified the distinctive genetic signature of Dementia with Lewy bodies, a common type of dementia. The research found that DLB accounts for 10-15% of dementia cases, but its genetic profile is unique compared to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
A new study finds that rural seniors are more likely to experience dementia and cognitive impairment than their urban counterparts, with the disparity narrowing over time. Improved education levels have helped mitigate this issue in rural communities.
Researchers identify build-up of urea in brain as major cause of dementia, with potential for early diagnosis and treatment. The study suggests that high brain urea levels may be a pivotal role in all types of age-related dementias.
A study by Lancaster University found that people with Huntington's Disease welcome discussing assisted death but feel restricted from doing so. The participants feared prolonged suffering and believed they should have the right to make decisions about their own deaths.
A new UCLA study estimates that 47 million Americans already show signs of susceptibility to Alzheimer's disease and this number is expected to double by 2060. By then, about 5.7 million will have mild cognitive impairment and 9.3 million will have dementia due to Alzheimer's.
A new tool, QuoCo, tracks cognitive performance in adults, allowing physicians to identify potential Alzheimer's patients. The tool uses age, education, and Mini-Mental State Examination scores to plot cognitive performance over time.
A global longitudinal study confirmed that people with high body mass index (BMI) are more likely to develop dementia than those with normal weight. The study analyzed data from over 1.3 million adults in the US and Europe, finding that individuals near dementia onset tend to have lower body weight.
A home-based activity program called Tailored Activity Program (TAP) was found to significantly reduce dementia-related behaviors in veterans, as well as decrease caregiver distress. After four months, nearly 70% of TAP group participants eliminated or reduced their behavioral symptoms compared to 46% in the control group.
A synthesis of 15 studies found that married people had a lower risk of developing dementia compared to lifelong singletons and widowers. The researchers suggest that marriage may promote healthier lifestyles and social engagement among couples, which can contribute to a lower risk of dementia.
Research at Kumamoto University found that MCI patients exhibit weakened short-term face memorization ability and distinct gaze behavior when trying to recall faces. This study may lead to early detection of dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease, which is characterized by cognitive decline in daily life.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found no link between proton pump inhibitor use and increased dementia risk among older adults. The study reviewed data from 3,484 participants aged 65 and older, concluding that developing dementia or Alzheimer's disease was not associated with taking PPIs.
A recent study has shed light on the causes of Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB) by revealing how toxic alpha-synuclein clumps disrupt vital parts of neurons and spread through brain connections. The research, led by the University of Edinburgh, used advanced technology to visualize synapses in DLB brains.
The Anticholinergic Cognitive Burden Scale (ACB) is associated with increased risk of emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and incident dementia in older adults. High ACB scores are linked to a dose-response relationship between anticholinergic burden and adverse clinical outcomes.
A randomized controlled trial found that computerized speed of processing training significantly reduced the risk of dementia among older adults. Participants who completed more training sessions had lower risk, with a 5.9% incidence rate compared to 10.8% in the control group.
A new study suggests that a breakthrough Alzheimer's treatment could leave millions of people without access to care due to the US healthcare system's limited capacity. The study identifies shortcomings in specialist diagnosis, diagnostic scanners, and infusion centers, and recommends measures to prepare for an Alzheimer's therapy.
A registry-based study from Aarhus University found that heart attack survivors are at a higher risk of developing vascular dementia, which is caused by vascular damage in the brain. The risk remains elevated for up to 35 years after the heart attack, with patients who underwent bypass surgery showing a fourfold increased risk.
Researchers develop new mouse model that captures pathology of sporadic neurological diseases, including ALS and FTD. The study reveals TDP-43 accelerates age-dependent degeneration of interneurons, a key finding with potential for studying neurological diseases accelerated by aging.
A study published in Neurology found that older adults with lower cardiac index have reduced blood flow in the temporal lobe regions of the brain, where Alzheimer's pathology begins. This suggests a link between heart health and cognitive impairment, potentially paving the way for new treatments.
A new study of 4886 SLE patients and 24,430 controls found a higher proportion of dementia among SLE patients (1.56% vs. 0.51%) and a 51% higher likelihood of developing dementia after adjustments.
Researchers aim to integrate advance care planning into nursing home workflow to support decision-making for dementia patients and their families. The multistate project will evaluate the effectiveness of a pragmatic program that helps staff identify patient goals and values.
A clinical trial involving 311 patients with prodromal Alzheimer's found significant advantages in nutrient-treated patients, including 45% less worsening in Clinical Dementia Rating-Sum of Box. The study also showed less brain atrophy in the active group, with notable benefits for hippocampal damage and everyday tasks.
A recent poll found that 78% of caregivers experience stress while caring for a loved one with dementia, but 85% also report it as a rewarding experience. The poll suggests that caregivers often neglect their own health and well-being due to caregiving demands.
A study published in the European Heart Journal found that anticoagulant drugs used to prevent blood clots in atrial fibrillation patients also protect against dementia. The research analyzed data from over 444,000 patients and found a significant reduction in dementia risk among those taking anticoagulants.
Researchers are developing sophisticated methods to understand Alzheimer's disease mechanisms and predict its onset before symptoms appear. The five-year study aims to pinpoint factors leading to cognitive decline in relation to beta-amyloid proteins.
Researchers will investigate brain aging and Alzheimer's using advanced bio imaging technology on a representative sample of 1,310 Tsimane adults. The project aims to understand the relationship between vascular health and Alzheimer's risk.
The Canadian Foundation for Innovation provides a $1.8 million grant to Baycrest's Rotman Research Institute (RRI) to upgrade its MRI and MEG machines, enabling researchers to pursue unique ways to protect brain health during aging and prevent dementia.
Researchers analyzed 56 high-quality studies on dementia to identify gaps in knowledge, focusing on caregiver behavior, environment, and progression of disease. The study aims to inform treatment design and interventions to reduce behavioral and psychological symptoms in dementia patients.
Researchers discovered that LSD1 removal in adult mice induces changes in gene activity similar to Alzheimer's disease. LSD1 protein is also perturbed in human brain samples with Alzheimer's and FTD, suggesting it as a central player in these neurodegenerative diseases.
A Swedish registry study found that dementia patients with stroke can receive thrombolysis treatment without increased risk of brain haemorrhage or death. However, those over 80 may experience worse functional outcomes and be more likely to be discharged to nursing homes.
A study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that high blood pressure in women's 40s is associated with a 65% increased risk of dementia. Women who developed high blood pressure in their 40s were 73% more likely to develop dementia than those with stable blood pressure throughout their 30s and 40s.
A first-of-its-kind study found that frontotemporal degeneration (FTD) causes substantial economic burden on patients and caregivers, with combined annual costs of $119,654. The study revealed significant impact on household income and quality of life, with most patients forced to leave the labor force during their prime earning years.
Up to two thirds of people with Alzheimer's disease experience psychotic episodes, linked to faster cognitive decline and accelerated death rates. New approaches to clinical trials aim to develop effective non-drug interventions to alleviate symptoms without adverse outcomes.
A long-term study of 3,000 adults found that those who couldn't identify four out of five common odors were more than twice as likely to develop dementia. The study's lead author notes that the sense of smell is closely connected with brain function and health.
A research team led by DGIST Professor Moon Cheil has identified the reason behind olfactory dysfunction in patients with early-stage Alzheimer's disease. The study reveals that a toxic protein called beta-amyloid accumulates in the peripheral nervous system, specifically in the olfactory epithelium, leading to olfactory failure.
A comprehensive study from Florida State University found no evidence that personality changes occur before the onset of mild cognitive impairment or dementia. Researchers analyzed data from over 2,000 individuals and discovered that personality traits remained stable even in the years leading up to clinical diagnosis.
A recent study published in Neurology found that both high and low levels of magnesium in blood may increase the risk of developing dementia. The research involved 9,569 participants who were followed for eight years, with those having high or low magnesium levels showing a 30% higher risk of dementia compared to the middle group.
A new study by Duke-NUS Medical School found that Alzheimer's patients with CeVD exhibit different brain network changes compared to those without CeVD, suggesting distinct underlying pathology. This finding may improve diagnosis, treatment, and management of neurodegenerative disorders.
Researchers found that individuals with frontotemporal dementia were physically aggressive earlier and exhibited more severe behavior towards strangers compared to those with Alzheimer's disease. The study of 281 deceased patients revealed a significant difference in the manifestation of aggression between the two groups.
Researchers found patients with FTD showed thinning of outer retina compared to control subjects. The degree of retinal thinning was worse in those with lower cognition scores.
Researchers at the University of Nottingham found that contagious yawning is triggered automatically by primitive reflexes in the primary motor cortex. Their study showed that individuals' propensity for contagious yawning is determined by cortical excitability and physiological inhibition, with limited ability to resist yawns.
A study published in Neurology found that less REM sleep and longer sleep latency are associated with a higher risk of developing dementia. Research followed 321 participants over 12 years, revealing a nine percent increase in all-cause dementia risk for each percentage reduction in REM sleep.
A new study published in Neurology suggests that people who get less rapid eye movement (REM) sleep may have a greater risk of developing dementia. The researchers found a link between lower percentages of REM sleep and an increased risk of dementia, with every percent reduction resulting in a 9% increase in dementia risk.
Researchers developed an algorithm using AI and big data to recognize dementia signatures two years before onset from a single amyloid PET scan. The tool could improve patient care and accelerate treatment research into Alzheimer's disease.