Alzheimer's Category
Through the GenerationsPromising New Alzheimer’s Drug
In February, the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) requested additional testing and data for aducanumab, a promising new drug for Alzheimer’s disease. The FDA pushed the date to July 7, 2021, before making its decision to approve the new treatment. “If approved, aducanumab would be the first available treatment to potentially Read more…
Medical NewsThe Rise in Dementia Disease
Dementia, one of the most debilitating diseases of humankind, is increasing in global prevalence with over 50 million patients.1-3 Dementia is a general term that describes the loss of cognitive ability, social functioning, and memory. There are many disease states that cause dementia representing divergent pathophysiologies, which are complex, multifactorial, Read more…
Through the GenerationsAdvantages to an Earlier Dementia Diagnosis
While some people may be reluctant or afraid to have a full medical evaluation for possible dementia, the benefits to an early diagnosis far outweigh the fears. In fact, an early accurate diagnosis may be a relief for the individual and family to know – including a possible treatable or Read more…
Medical NewsIs It Age-Related Memory Decline or Dementia?
As we age, it is common to experience memory loss. It’s also common to question whether these events are simply due to age or if dementia is setting in. Fortunately, assessments are available to help answer this question. Age-related changes in the brain can be documented on imaging such as Read more…
Through the GenerationsPreparing to Visit Someone with Dementia
Often, friends and family members stop visiting a loved one with dementia because they don’t know what to say or do. Planning ahead for a visit can help create a positive experience and alleviate stress for both the patient and visitor. For caregivers, when having visitors, limit to one or Read more…
Through the GenerationsStay-At-Home Activities While Caring for Those with Dementia
During these unprecedented times when we are required to practice social distancing and shelter at home, families caring for a loved one with dementia at home face increased isolation and emotional challenges. Not being able to socialize in person with friends and extended family are difficult enough for everyone. Keeping Read more…
Medical NewsGender-based Testing for Alzheimer’s
A new study published recently in Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, suggests that using sex-specific scores on memory tests may change who gets diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) by 20 percent, with possibly more women and fewer men being diagnosed. “Women may be more Read more…
Integrative MedicineDietary Approaches to Alzheimer’s Disease
Editor’s note: The connection between Alzheimer’s and nutrition has been covered often in Desert Health, but as the topic is both new and important, we will continue to publish editorials by a variety of practitioners. Previous articles can be found at here. The statistics around Alzheimer’s disease are highly concerning. Read more…
Medical NewsA Holistic Approach to Saving Brains
A new report in the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology now ranks Alzheimer’s as the third leading cause of death in our country behind cancer and heart disease.1 It is estimated that 5.5 million Americans are living with the disease and that number is expected to triple Read more…
Medical NewsHope for Brain Health
Brain adaptation is key to our survival. Our unconscious mind processes millions of data bits per second, and our ability to “think about our thinking” is one of the features that makes humans unique among mammals. Much of the time our brain adaptation is beneficial, but in many cases preserving Read more…
Medical NewsInteracting with Alzheimer’s Patients
Without a doubt, one of the saddest things that can happen with an Alzheimer’s or dementia patient is when family, friends and acquaintances desert those diagnosed due to fear, discomfort and misunderstanding of the disease. Being connected and involved with others is crucial for every human being, especially those with Read more…
Medical NewsAnother Reason to Exercise: Your Memory
January is usually a time of renewed commitment to improving one’s health. Diet and exercise are at the top of the list. While we know that exercise helps strengthen bones and muscles, reduces stress and the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, there’s another reason: physical activity benefits the brain. Read more…
Through the GenerationsHome for the Holidays
The holidays can bring both great joy and great stress. It’s often a time when family members who live elsewhere come “home” – with expectations and extra demands associated with preparations for and celebrations of the holiday season. Being a family caregiver of someone with dementia can bring an even Read more…
Integrative MedicineSocialization Important for Alzheimer’s Patients
In the past, whenever Alzheimer’s was mentioned, as a society and community, we focused on the tragedy and sadness of this disease’s inevitable outcome. Today there is a different outlook: While Alzheimer’s is a disease, it is a person with a disease, and the focus should be on that person’s Read more…
Integrative MedicineThe Connection between Alzheimer’s and Diabetes
It would be too easy to simmer the development of Alzheimer’s and other dementias down to a single etiology. Rarely are things so simple. Still the connection between dementia and diabetes has been acknowledged for many years now. Many have gone so far as to use the term “type-3 diabetes” Read more…
Medical NewsLocal Dementia Care Training Offered
While there are over 5.7 million people living with Alzheimer’s today, there are 16 million more caring for loved ones affected. Added to that number are the many paid health professionals who provide care and support for the 24/7 management often required. In the Coachella Valley, it is estimated that Read more…
Medical NewsU.S. POINTER Aims at Change
In summer 2018, the Alzheimer’s Association will launch the first-ever U.S.-based study to examine the effects of lifestyle interventions for seniors at high-risk for cognitive decline. The 2-year clinical trial will enroll 2,500 participants from health systems across the country, and intervention categories will include: healthy nutrition physical activity social Read more…
Desert EventsAlzheimers Coachella Valley Offers Innovative Program
Alzheimers Coachella Valley (ACV), the new community-based nonprofit organization now open at the Berger Foundation Center, launched a new innovative support group called “Traveling the Journey Together.” The first-of-its kind program includes both the person diagnosed with dementia and the care-partner. The eight-week series is facilitated by Edie Keller, Licensed Read more…
Medical NewsCaring for the Caregiver
In the March/April 2017 issue of Desert Health®, Dr. Lu introduced a pilot program being conducted by a team of doctors at Eisenhower Medical Center. The results of that intervention program follow. It is estimated that 5.5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s dementia in 2017. Most people with Alzheimer’s Read more…