Two weeks ago scientists from around the world converged on Boston for the annual Alzheimer’s Association International Conference. This is an overview and link to some of the more significant findings from that conference with my comments.
Early on in the conference a great deal of attention was given to concept of “Subjective Cognitive Impairment,” and the realization that when individuals note they are having some problems with their mind or memory professionals ought to pay better attention. Doctor’s used to refer to such people as the “worried well” suggesting they were just a bit paranoid. Now good research has shown that these individuals were often in fact aware of subtle changes not detectable in standard cognitive evaluations. (see my earlier article below titled When Should You Be Concerned.) As I have long advocated, if you believe that your memory is slipping NOW is the time to take action. As the sooner these issues are addressed the easier it will be to turn those problems around, and prevent further decline. If you email me at DavidRJL@aol.com I will send you a self-evaluation check-list free, that you can use to help pinpoint the cause of your decline. This will also provide insight into how to address these. This worksheet along with recommendations for reducing each risk factor is also available in our book Alzheimer’s May Be Stopped Now Here’s How!
At the conference they noted that dementia screenings may not offer much practical benefit, however, they also noted 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s that may be useful to consider. However, again most of these appear way too late in the process, it’s much wiser for each of us to become sensitive to changes in our memory, and/or become aware of the risk factors noted in the free self-evaluation checklist noted above. See also the article below on Memory Tests Plus Brain Scans and Blood Tests
Delaying Retirement Reduces Risk for Dementia
The other significant report was on the value of a later retirement for dementia prevention. This of course emphasizes the importance not only of staying mentally active, but of having a purpose in life, and of the importance of continuing to learn new things as we age. Our brain truly is a “use it or lose it” organ. But the other reality is that there are now more ways to learn than ever before.
While reading remains one of the best activities for the brain, learning through the internet, discovery channels, conversation, classes or study groups and travel are more available than ever before. Whether it’s learning a new hobby, language or dance step, ongoing learning is critical for maintaining a healthy brain. To learn more about this new research on the importance on staying employed and engaged check out: Dementia risk reduced by putting off retirement, study suggestsRetiring later could help you fend off Alzheimer’s
Cancer reduces risk for Alzheimer’s
I hesitated to include that here, as I generally only include practical info and I doubt anyone is going to want to go out and contract cancer in order to prevent Alzheimer’s. But there may be something about cancers or their treatment that we can learn from here to reduce our risk for Alzheimer’s. To explore this further go to: Cancer and chemotherapy reduce risk of Alzheimer’s, Boston study finds
Study finds inverse link between cancer, Alzheimer’s
Diabetes & Alzheimer’s Link confirmed
Finally, if you have attended one of classes on Alzheimer’s or how to maintain a healthy brain you have likely heard me talk of the research by Suzanne Craft, PhD of the University of Washington, on the connection between diabetes or insulin resistance and Alzheimer’s. Another study presented by Dr. Turner of Georgetown University again confirmed Dr. Craft’s findings, noting that many individuals with Alzheimer’s indeed have a history of high blood sugar.- and likely insulin resistance. So you may want to advise your clients to continue to hold those jelly beans and ice-cream, and continue on their fruit and vegetables. For more see: Early diabetes signs often missed in Alzheimer’s patients
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