Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common cause of dementia. Dementia describing a specific set of symptoms such as memory loss, difficulties with problem-solving, language or simply thinking. As the disease progresses, proteins build up in the brain to form structures called ‘plaques’. Eventually there is a break between the nerve cells resulting the death of the cells and a loss of brain tissue. ending in a lack of motor skills. Although progression can vary, typically after diagnosis life expectancy is around three to nine years. Fewer than 3% of people live more than fourteen years.
Management
Medications, psychological intervention and care-giving are all available to AD patients. there are currently 5 different medications on offer for AD each have different results and side affects.
Diseases could be detected even before people experience symptoms, thanks to a pioneering new health-data programme as part of the government’s modern Industrial Strategy.
The University of Cambridge found that virtual reality (VR) can identify early Alzheimer’s disease better than ‘gold standard’ cognitive tests currently in use.
According to the Alzheimer Society 850,000 people in the UK have dementia but with 1 in 6 people over the age of 80 living with dementia, this is predicted to rise to over 2 million by 2050 as the population ages.
The work of the National Institute on Aging (NIA) is placed into focus here, with examples of how they are supporting vital Alzheimer’s disease research in the U.S and further afield.
Paul Edwards, Director of Clinical Services at Dementia UK, explores what dementia actually means in the 21st century, including the all-important differences between dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Rachel Conant, Senior Director, Federal Affairs, Alzheimer’s Association explains how bold action by the U.S. Congress delivers victory to the millions of people living with Alzheimer's.
On the 4th February 2019, a scientific breakthrough for the future of Alzheimer's brain reserach has been published - read on to explore the developments.
Andrea Varrone studies the importance of molecular imaging to provide personalised medicine and improve care for patients with neurodegenerative disorders
The work of the EU Joint Programme – Neurodegenerative Disease Research (JPND) which aims to tackle the challenge of these diseases, in particular, Alzheimer’s, is discussed here
Dr Carol Routledge, Director of Research at Alzheimer’s Research UK charts the priorities for medical research when it comes to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
Halloween is a fun time for many, dressing up, collecting as many sweets as possible and joining in on the community spirit. However, for dementia sufferers, Halloween can cause severe fear and confusion
Dr Yves Joanette, Scientific Director at the CIHR Institute of Aging argues for a balanced approach when it comes to their collaboration-based approach to face the challenge of dementia
Dr Richard Hodes, Director of the National Institute on Aging within the U.S. National Institutes of Health, explores the importance of working together to treat and prevent Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
In recognition of World Alzheimer’s Day, hearing aid provider, Oticon, explains why successfully addressing hearing loss could reduce the risk of early on-set dementia
