In this week’s dementia news:
Engage in physical activity to keep your brain healthy. Neuroscientist Dr. Wendy Suzuki recommends incorporating unique exercises like intenSati, combining cardio with positive affirmations.
This workout not only uplifts your mood but also enhances mindfulness. Studies show the positive impact of self-compassion practices on mental health.
Any form of exercise benefits the brain, reducing the risk of dementia. Make time for physical activity amidst your busy schedule – your brain will thank you for it.
With brain health, the quality and quantity of sleep play a crucial role. Too little or too much sleep in older adults has been linked to an increased risk of dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease.
Poor sleep can lead to the accumulation of proteins like amyloid in the brain, a key player in Alzheimer’s development.
Sleep disturbances can also be an early sign of dementia, highlighting the intricate relationship between sleep and brain health.
Researchers have developed a new 46-question test to detect early signs of dementia by allowing individuals to self-report concerns in cognitive areas like memory and language.
The test, called the McCusker Subjective Cognitive Impairment Inventory (McSCI), focuses on subjective cognitive decline and has shown promising results in accurately identifying individuals at risk.
By addressing concerns in areas such as memory, language, and attention, this test can help individuals and healthcare providers make informed decisions for early intervention and treatment planning.
Further research is needed to validate this screening tool’s effectiveness and to integrate it into clinical practice seamlessly.
Financial consequences can be an early indicator of dementia, according to a recent report. Monica Moreno from the Alzheimer’s Association highlights the importance of spotting signs of financial trouble early. Here are some key takeaways:
Main Points:
• Analysis of data suggests a decline in credit scores and late payments precede Alzheimer’s diagnosis.
• Individuals may accrue debt, open new credit accounts, and experience changes in spending patterns.
• Family intervention is crucial to protect loved ones from financial risks associated with dementia.
A new study reveals that maintaining systolic blood pressure below 120 mmHg could offer protective benefits against dementia, especially for Blacks and Latinos.
Hypertension remains a key risk factor for dementia, with disparities in both conditions affecting minority populations.
Lowering SBP in midlife may reduce dementia risk, highlighting the importance of hypertension control in diverse communities.
Identify the states with the highest Alzheimer’s death rates and learn about the impact of this disease on the U.S. population.
Stay informed to support ongoing efforts to combat Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s disease remains a significant concern in the U.S., with nearly 7 million older adults affected.
The disease, a leading cause of death, saw a slight decline in 2022. The CDC reports that Alzheimer’s was responsible for over 120,000 deaths in the same year.
The financial burden is projected to increase substantially, with costs nearing $1 trillion by 2050.
As the population ages, the number of individuals affected is expected to rise to 13 million by 2050, highlighting the need for continued research and funding to combat this devastating illness.
Controlling high blood pressure is crucial in preventing dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.
Dr. Josef Coresh from NYU Langone’s Optimal Aging Institute shares key insights: