MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'alzheimer´s'. Wed, 21 Jul 2010 11:10:31 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3699606&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F9kuPOAPPJdk%2F We define Brain Fitness as having the brain-based cognitive, emotional and self-regulation capacities required to succeed in one’s environment. Not everyone is exposed to the same mental demands nor do we all have the same starting points. This means we need to stop looking for ‘magic pills’ and invest more resources in developing toolkits and infrastructure similar to what the physical fitness industry has done over the last 30-40 years. The following question guides much of our work at SharpBrains: “What tools provide the right kind of experience to refine our brains from a structural and functional point of view to harness neuroplasticity into real-world benefits?” We try to provide good information and answers by constantly monitoring and analyzing the state of science and th... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3699606 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 14:31:12 +0100 3699606 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3683747&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FgX2zh7Kynfw%2F The main value of the independent NIH panel mentioned in the previous article comes from the recommendations it makes for research, industry and government to fill the gaps in the scientific evidence in years to come. … In fact, having access to objective, automated assessments to help consumers better monitor their cognitive health and take proactive, informed action is the one part of the brain fitness puzzle that is badly needed. It is estimated that 60% of people with Alzheimer’s Disease go undiagnosed. Most patients today get diagnosed with Alzheimer’s too late and based on tools which are not sensitive enough to pick up on subtle problems in thinking and memory needed to make accurate diagnosis and distinguish among different memory disorders. This often results in having m... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3683747 Mon, 21 Jun 2010 12:02:08 +0100 3683747 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3671878&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F5h72fX5jzTU%2F In late April 2010, an independent expert panel organized by the NIH released a thoughtful report on the state of the science for prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease and cognitive decline*. The report summarizes the panel’s review of the scientific literature by saying: “Firm conclusions cannot be drawn about the association of modifiable risk factors with cognitive decline or Alzheimer’s disease.” Which was basically reported as “nothing can prevent Alzheimer’s Disease.” Which is very true. And also very different from what most readers may assume it means. Note: You can keep reading the article What the recent NIH Expert Panel on Alzheimer’s Prevention Means – and Doesn’t Mean in the website of the American Society of Aging (article link opens PDF). ASA recently asked... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3671878 Thu, 17 Jun 2010 11:05:39 +0100 3671878 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3059819&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F1-zIraMoooo%2F Our inaugural SharpBrains Summit continues to grow momentum – here goes a quick update. New Speakers: Thomas M. Warden is Assistant Vice President and Leader of Allstate’s Research and Planning Center (ARPC). He helps sets ARPC’s research agenda and manage its execution by 60-member ARPC staff, leading the development of significant innovations that contribute to Allstate’s profitable growth. He is a Chartered Financial Analyst and has an M.B.A. from Harvard University. Dr. Laurence Hirshberg directs the NeuroDevelopment Center and serves on the faculty of the Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior of the Brown University Medical School as Clinical Assistant Professor. The NeuroDevelopment Center is one of the 20 research sites worldwide participating in the largest study ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3059819 Fri, 04 Dec 2009 18:28:53 +0100 3059819 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2458243&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F1xndaexWxAA%2F This is a partial list of the literature we reviewed during the research phase of our new book, The SharpBrains Guide to Brain Fitness.  We know many friends of SharpBrains are researchers, healthcare professionals, graduate/ Ph.D. students, who want have direct access to the references (perhaps PubMed should promote itself as a never ending source of mental stimulation?), so here you have this list, organized by relevant chapter. Please note that the list below appears in the book - whose manuscript we had to close in January 2009. Introduction • Basak, C. et al. (2008). Can training in a real-time strategy video game attenuate cognitive decline in older adults? Psychology and Aging. • Begley, S. (2007). Train your mind, change your brain: How a new science reveals our extraordinary ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2458243 Sat, 06 Jun 2009 19:24:20 +0100 2458243 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2447832&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F3XvIPyfyaWA%2F Discussion Guide: The goal of our just published book, The SharpBrains Guide to Brain Fitness, is to inform you, but also to open a much needed debate to contribute to our collective brain fitness. We encourage book clubs to read and discuss the book, and suggest 10 questions to kickstart the conversation. Please do send us your answers and impressions! Education & Learning 10% Students may have working memory problems: Why does this matter?: A recent study screened over 3,000 school-aged students in schools in the UK and found that 1 in 10 was identified as having working memory difficulties. Working memory is our ability to store and manipulate information for a brief time, and difficulties in this brain function may lead into difficulties in reading and mathematics. Dr. Tracy Allo... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2447832 Tue, 02 Jun 2009 12:53:26 +0100 2447832 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2442119&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F-lTjTpRVSkA%2F The Longevity Dividend is a theory that says we hope to intervene scientifically to slow the aging process, which will also delay the onset of age-related diseases. Delaying aging just seven years would slash rates of conditions like cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease and heart disease in half. That’s the longevity part. The dividend comes from the social, economic, and health bonuses that would then be available to spend on schools, energy, jobs, infrastructure—trillions of dollars that today we spend on healthcare services. In fact, at the rate we’re going, by the year 2020 one out of every $5 spent in this country will be spent on healthcare. Obviously, something has to change. Enter the Longevity Dividend. The Longevity Dividend doesn’t suggest that we live longer; instead... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2442119 Thu, 28 May 2009 03:54:11 +0100 2442119 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2570905&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=35373&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmerzenich.positscience.com%2F%3Fp%3D228 I strongly encourage our readers to check out the newly published book “Move Into Life”, authored by a highly distinguished therapist (and personal friend) Anat Baniel. Anat was originally trained by Moshe Feldenkrais, who developed a novel empirical perspective about physical/cognitive/perceptual rehabilitation that is broadly consistent with the principles of brain plasticity neuroscience. She has very significantly elaborated those practices, and has gradually encorporated a richer scientific perspective into them. Anat summarizes this deeper understanding in this important book — which is full of good information and advice, both for the therapist, and the patient. At the core of her approach is the understanding that awareness, cognition and movement are really insep... On the Brain by Dr. Michael Merzenich, Ph.D. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2570905 Wed, 06 May 2009 15:46:17 +0100 2570905 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2390100&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FBpmMVyNz6XA%2F In this report we estimate the size of the US brain fitness software market at $265M in 2008, up from $225M in 2007 (18% annual growth), and from $100m in 2005. Two segments fuelled the market growth from 2007 to 2008: consumers (grew from $80m to $95m) and healthcare & insurance providers (grew from $65m to $80m). The 150-page report finds promising research and initiatives to drive significant growth, combined with increased consumer confusion given aggressive marketing claims and lack of education and standards. The report includes: - The complete results of an exclusive January 2009 Survey with 2,000+ respondents - A proprietary Market & Research Momentum Matrix to categorize 21 key vendors into four categories - 10 Research Executive Briefs written by leading scientists at p... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2390100 Tue, 05 May 2009 00:11:54 +0100 2390100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2570906&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=35373&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmerzenich.positscience.com%2F%3Fp%3D226 We all know a few older-aged paragons, individuals who are still storming through life in their 9th or 10th or 11th decade. I was delighted to read two articles in the New York Times last week that featured two such individuals who have crossed my own path in life. David Perlman is a 90-year-old science writer for the San Francisco Chronicle who is refusing to take a buyout offer from his struggling employer. I know from meeting with him in the past that he’s an all-business, no-nonsense, straightforward, well-informed PROFESSIONAL, in every sense of the word. Why SHOULD he quit, when he gets so much enjoyment about his work? In any event, as he joked in the Times article, he’d “..bankrupt the paper.” if he took a buyout package based on the number of years of emplo... On the Brain by Dr. Michael Merzenich, Ph.D. blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2570906 Wed, 29 Apr 2009 17:39:23 +0100 2570906 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2367655&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FzBtmD4uGBe8%2F You may be reading all about brain fitness and brain training. It seems every week brings a new barrage of articles and studies which often contradict what you read the month before: Does Gingko Biloba help delay Alzheimer’s Disease? Can physical exercise help you stay sharp as you age? Which computer-based “brain fitness programs”, if any, are worth your money? All this coverage reflects very exciting scientific findings but also poses a key dilemma: How to become an informed lifelong learner and consumer when there are few and contradictory authoritative guidelines? The SharpBrains Guide to Brain Fitness (to be published in May 2009; $24.95) aims to fill that void. This guide is the result of over a year of extensive research including more than a hundred interviews with scientists... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2367655 Fri, 24 Apr 2009 22:19:12 +0100 2367655 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2211917&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FmgzGobDdyZs%2F In April 2008, Baycrest, a leading research institute focused on aging and brain function, received $10-million from the Ontario Government to create a groundbreaking Centre for Brain Fitness. Its stated goal was to “develop and commercialize a range of products designed to improve the brain health of aging Ontarians and others around the world”. “Our government is proud to support Baycrest and its invaluable work, which is already leading to the discovery of important new tools and approaches to treating brain diseases associated with aging,” said Minister of Research and Innovation, John Wilkinson. We have Baycrest’s CEO with us today, to explore why Ontario and Baycrest chose to become pioneers in this area, and discuss some of the main opportunities, and challenges. Dr. Will... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2211917 Mon, 23 Feb 2009 22:43:35 +0100 2211917 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2173829&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F536195658%2F Welcome to the 8th edition of Hourglass, the blog carnival devoted to biogerontology. Enjoy! --- Use It or Lose It Existence is Wonderful, by Anne C. Neither A Transhumanist Nor a "Pessimist", And That's Okay "I can't survive cognitively in environments that force everything into false dichotomies, and nobody should feel hurt, slighted, or bitter because of my doing what I need to do for the sake of being able to actually use my brain." "Just because I think superlativity tends to distort dialogue and make it difficult to focus on what can actually be done in the real world does not mean I disparage the power of human imagination or our capacity to change things for the better." --- Cognitive Enhancement, Health and Assessments Ouroboros, by Chris Pa... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2173829 Tue, 10 Feb 2009 15:00:32 +0100 2173829 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2079030&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F492395341%2F Welcome to the 61st edition of Encephalon, the blog carnival that offers some of the best neuroscience and psychology blog posts every other week. We do have an excellent set of articles today. covering much ground. Enjoy the reading: --- Neuroscience and Society Neuroanthropology, by Greg Downey The Flynn Effect: Troubles with Intelligence 2 Average IQ test scores had risen about 3 points per decade and in some cases more. Tests of vocabulary, arithmetic, or general knowledge (such as the sorts of facts one learns in school) have showed little increase, but scores have increased markedly on tests thought to measure ‘general intelligence’. MindHacks, by Vaughan Bell Medical jargon alters our understanding of disease Understanding how popular ideas influence our personal medic... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2079030 Mon, 22 Dec 2008 17:27:52 +0100 2079030 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1925050&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F437438124%2F As mentioned before, the World Economic Forum asked me to write "an 800 words summary of your most compelling actionable idea on the challenges of gerontology", in preparation for the Inaugural Summit of the Global Agenda that will take place November 7 to 9th in Dubai.A good number of SharpBrains readers and clients offered their insights - and expressed an interest in reading the draft. So below you have - a proposal to create a Global Consortium for Neurocognitive Fitness Innovation, building on our existing market research and advisory services work. Your thoughts? ----- The Context Growing Demands on Our Brains: Picture 6.7 billion Primitive Brains inhabiting a Knowledge Society where lifelong learning and mastering constant change in complex environments are critical for pr... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1925050 Thu, 30 Oct 2008 23:21:34 +0100 1925050 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1723968&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F370395137%2F In this study (Gazzaley, A.  et al.  2005) the investigators went beyond behavioral assessment of the responses, because that kind of thing had been done before.  What they wanted to know was what was happening in the brain during this suppression of irrelevant task. They used functional magnetic resonance (fMRI) imaging over a region of brain that was responsive to the visual images.  What was being measured was the amount of brain activity under conditions when the instructions were to remember a type of image or ignore it.  What they found was that brain activity in all of the young subjects increased when they were viewing scenes they were asked to remember and decreased when presented with an image that they were supposed to have ignored. That is, the brain suppressed its respons... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1723968 Thu, 21 Aug 2008 03:35:42 +0100 1723968 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1643031&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F341474581%2F Welcome to Encephalon´s 50th edition, where you will find another superb collection of blog posts on all things Brain and Mind. Enjoy these contributions: Science & Technology Mind Hacks reports that Facebook ate my psychiatrist. We can learn about the benefits of social networking sites like Facebook, bringing great perspective to recent and misguided media speculation (fuelled by a recent talk at the Royal College of Psychiatrists). Vaughan, will you please report on the benefits of participating (and, better, hosting) Encephalon?. Dungeons And Dragons - Or Mazes And Monsters?: PodBlack Cat offers a thought-provoking review of the therapy (including self-therapy) applications of role-playing games such as the classic Dungeons And Dragons and the more recent massively multiplay... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1643031 Mon, 21 Jul 2008 14:05:26 +0100 1643031 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1618296&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F334940159%2F Two recent announcements bring out how the assessment of cognitive abilities, or brain functions, is solidly incorporating new computerized options: 1) Last week, OptumHealth announced an exclusive 3-year agreement (estimated at $18m) with the Australian company Brain Resource. OptumHealth will be embedding the Brain Resource platform into their overall Behavioral Solutions program. - OptumHealth Behavioral Solutions will work with Brain Resource to provide clinicians with a Web-based assessment that measures general cognition (how people process information) and social cognition (how people manage their emotions). This 40-minute assessment is based on well-known and validated tests of memory, attention, executive function, and response speed, and mood, social skills and emotional resilien... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1618296 Mon, 14 Jul 2008 09:22:19 +0100 1618296 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1552375&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F321044036%2F This article was written by Pascale Michelon, Ph. D., for SharpBrains.com. Dr. Michelon, Copyright 2008. Dr. Michelon has a Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology and is a Research Scientist at Washington University in Saint Louis, in the Psychology Department. She conducted several research projects to understand how the brain makes use of visual information and memorizes facts. She is now an Adjunct Faculty at Washington University, and teaches Memory Workshops in numerous retirement communities in the St Louis area. aerobic training, Alzheimer’s disease, brain, Brain health, Brain Imaging, cognitive performance, Cognitive Training, Colcombe and Kramer, executive control, exercise, fitness training, hippocampus, memory, mental exercises, Physical Exercise, Working memory (Source: SharpBrains) SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1552375 Fri, 27 Jun 2008 22:46:17 +0100 1552375 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1551324&cid=t_193779_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2008%2F06%2F27%2Fin-brain-social-networking-concepts-lend-a-hand%2F In a fascinating bit of research, Stanford University researchers have discovered that a vital part of brain functioning — our neural hubs — might be a key into understanding Alzheimer’s. Neural hubs connect neural paths, which our brains use to communicate. Anything adversely affecting either the paths or the hubs could result in problems with not only our brain functioning, but our physical functioning as well. Here’s what the researchers did and found: “Each hub connects to several other hubs, and a signal chooses among several options to find the shortest path to its destination,” said Supekar. Social networking sites operate on similar principles. The Facebook example might be one of, “I’m friends with your cousin’s hairstylist - want to hang out?... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1551324 Fri, 27 Jun 2008 18:21:33 +0100 1551324 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1543150&cid=t_193779_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2008%2F06%2F25%2Fpromising-new-alzheimers-research-published%2F Which came first, the beta-amyloid plaque or the Alzheimer’s? It’s the plaque, but only one subtype, according to a new report by Harvard researchers in the online journal Nature Medicine and profiled in this TIME article from Sunday. Physicians and researchers have long noted the presence of these plaques, made up of “sticky” beta-amyloid proteins, in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients, and wondered whether there might be some connection between the plaque and the disease. To complicate things, however, beta-amyloid plaques have also been found in patients with no sign of the disease, making scientists wonder whether the plaques could be an advance warning sign of Alzheimer’s rather than a byproduct of the disorder. So, how was this chicken-and-egg problem solved? Researcher... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1543150 Wed, 25 Jun 2008 06:16:46 +0100 1543150 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1544539&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F319104093%2F A few colleagues referred me over the weekend to a very nice article at business publication Portfolio. While the article does an excellent job at introducing the reader to the concept and promise of computerized cognitive assessments, it also contributes to the mythology of "Brain Age". Let's first take a look at the article How Smart Are You: The business of assessing cognition and memory is moving from testing brain-impaired patients to assessing healthy peoples' brains online. A couple of quotes:  - "Cognitive Drug Research is one a handful of businesses, most of them outside of the U.S., that work with pharmaceutical companies to test how new drugs for everything from nicotine addiction to Alzheimer’s disease affect the mind’s ability to remember things, make deci... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1544539 Tue, 24 Jun 2008 17:15:14 +0100 1544539 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1395269&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F276633288%2F We are working on improving several sections of our website, especially our Resources section. It will look much better in a few days. Our first step has been to re-organize our Neuroscience Interview Series, and below you have how it looks today. During the last 18 months I have had the fortune to interview over 15 cutting-edge neuroscientists and cognitive psychologists on their research and thoughts. Here are some of our favorite quotes (you can read the full interview notes by clicking on the links):   “Learning is physical. Learning means the modification, growth, and pruning of our neurons, connections–called synapses– and neuronal networks, through experience...When we do so, we are cultivating our own neuronal networks. We become our own gardeners”- Dr. James Zull, Pr... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1395269 Thu, 24 Apr 2008 04:34:55 +0100 1395269 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1356661&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F266362196%2F Ever wondered what explains the sometimes surreal, often misguided, health policies by our government? Well, it is beyond our humble brains to capture and articulate what may be going on...but we now see that lack of access to quality information is certainly not the main problem. Decision-making processes, and structural incentives, would probably merit more attention.... I mention this because we are really impressed by the just-published 24-page special issue on Preventing Memory Loss by Congressional Quarterly Researcher, one of the main publications in Capitol Hill. The publication is not free, but worth the price for anyone active professionally in the healthcare sector, or interested in learning about latest research and policy trends, from academics to students. You can buy ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1356661 Tue, 08 Apr 2008 15:09:17 +0100 1356661 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1295082&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F249622607%2F After many months of work (and we hope many new neurons and stronger synapses in our brains), we have just released our inaugural report on the emerging Brain Fitness Software Market, the first to define the brain fitness software market and analyze the size and trends of its four customer segments. We estimate the size of the US brain fitness software market at $225M in2007, up from $100m in 2005 (50% CAGR). The two segments that fueled the market growth: consumers (grew from $5m to $80m, 300% CAGR) and healthcare & insurance providers (grew from $36m to $65m, 35% CAGR). Highlights from The State of the Brain Fitness Software Market 2008 report include: 1) 2007 was a seminal year for the US Brain Fitness software market, which reached $225 million in revenues – up from an estimated... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1295082 Tue, 11 Mar 2008 17:36:07 +0100 1295082 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1292436&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F249262790%2F Dr. Adrian Preda, our newest Expert Contributor, writes today the first in a series of thought-provoking articles, challenging us to think about physical exercise as the best and most unappreciated form of "brain exercise". A superb article. And one thing is clear, he points out: "the brain really likes it when it’s asked to be “active”. Passive audiences, which are spoon fed information, score less well when tested on retention and understanding of the presented material than audiences that were kept engaged through the process." So, will you write a comment below and contribute to an engaging conversation? Thoughts? reactions? questions? ------------------------- Don’t ignore plain old common sense. Brain Lessons Part 1 -- By Adrian Preda, M.D. Let me start wi... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1292436 Tue, 11 Mar 2008 03:44:58 +0100 1292436 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1262089&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F242320041%2F This article was co-written by Simon Evans and Paul Burghardt. Drs. Evans and Burghardt currently collaborate in the University of Michigan’s Department of Psychiatry, and the Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience Institute to study the effects of nutrition and exercise on brain function. They host the Brain Fit for Life blog and are collaborating on an upcoming book on the subject. Alzheimer’s disease, anti depressants, behavior modification, brain, brain exercise, Brain games, brain wellness, diabetes, exercise and brain, healthcare, increase productivity, insurance companies, neuroscience, Nutrition, overweight, Paul Burghardt, Physical Exercise, Preventive Medicine, psychiatry, retirement, self enrichment, Simon Evans, sleep, stress management, University of Michigan (Source: Shar... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1262089 Wed, 27 Feb 2008 21:07:27 +0100 1262089 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1253221&cid=t_193779_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2008%2F02%2F24%2Fmentally-and-physically-stimulating-environments-delay-dementia%2F This study is especially important since a lot of nursing homes and assisted living facilities that house Alzheimer’s patients still do not have a dynamic physically and mentally stimulating environment. (Source: World of Psychology) World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1253221 Mon, 25 Feb 2008 01:51:29 +0100 1253221 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1249091&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F239080938%2F Two interesting company press releases, one yesterday one today, showing how cognitive interventions may be helpful no matter our age, from kids to seniors, as long as we understand what those "tools" are supposed to do and don't expect, or are promised, miracles: Dakim ® , Inc. Secures $10.6 Million Series C Funding Led by Galen Partners - "an innovator in brain fitness technology solutions, today announced the completion of a $10.6 million Series C financing. The round was led by Galen Partners, a leading private equity firm specializing in healthcare investing...Mr. Jahns said, “Dakim has developed an innovative, affordable and practical solution to assist the rapidly aging population maintain their brain health and fight Alzheimer’s disease." ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1249091 Thu, 21 Feb 2008 23:38:06 +0100 1249091 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1246765&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F238603070%2F Cognitive training (the basis for what we call "brain fitness" these days) has a wide array of applications. The most recent one, which is capturing public's imagination, monopolizing media coverage, and creating certain confusion, is Healthy Brain Aging. We are fortunate to have Dr. Joshua Steinerman, one of our new Expert Contributors, offer today his great voice to this conversation. Enjoy! --------------------------- Minding the Aging Brain -- By Joshua R. Steinerman, M.D. Scientists, philosophers, artists, and experts from all fields of human endeavor lament: it ain’t easy getting older. It? Do they refer to frailty and disability? To bodily disease? To life at its essence? It’s all in your head The mind is not set in stone, but it is encased by bone. It’s really all a... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1246765 Thu, 21 Feb 2008 06:07:29 +0100 1246765 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1173748&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F221904237%2F This article was written by Pascale Michelon, Ph. D., for SharpBrains.com. Dr. Michelon has a Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology and has worked as a Research Scientist at Washington University in Saint Louis, in the Psychology Department. She conducted several research projects to understand how the brain makes use of visual information and memorizes facts. She is now an Adjunct Faculty at Washington University, and teaches Memory Workshops in numerous retirement communities in the St Louis area. Alzheimer’s disease, brain, brain damage, brain scans, CAT scans, cognitive brain reserve, cognitive psychology, Education, fit brains, fMRI scans, Functional imaging, healthy brain, higher education, intellectual stimulation, Memory Workshops mental stimulation, MRI scans, museums, neural activity,... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1173748 Wed, 23 Jan 2008 22:53:52 +0100 1173748 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1147157&cid=t_193779_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F215632839%2F Last week, the US Car Care Council released a list of tips on how to take care of your car and “save big money at the pump in 2008.” You may not have paid much attention to this announcement. Yes, it’s important to save gas these days; but, it’s not big news that good maintenance habits will improve the performance of a car, and extend its life. If we can all agree on the importance of maintaining our cars that get us around town, what about maintaining our brains sitting behind the wheel? A spate of recent news coverage on brain fitness and “brain training” has missed an important constituency: younger people. Recent advancements in brain science have as tremendous implications for teenagers and adults of all ages as they do for seniors. In a recent conversation with neuroscie... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1147157 Fri, 11 Jan 2008 17:27:18 +0100 1147157 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1098791&cid=t_193779_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2007%2F12%2F16%2Fyoutube-video-suggests-even-young-people-should-have-alzheimer%25e2%2580%2599s-awareness%2F Today while surfing YouTube, I came across an interesting video titled “My Name is Lisa”. This film is about a young girl’s challenges to cope with her mother’s progressing Alzheimer’s disease. The video was a submission to YouTube’s “Project Direct”, a competition for film creators who have “something to say”. I appreciated this video because it seems pretty accurate compared to experiences I’ve had with Alzheimer’s patients and their family members. However, one curious thing about the film was the age of the child in the video. I suppose that as women are having children later in life, it’s possible that children as young as the girl depicted in this video would have to deal with their primary caregiver suffering from something as dynamic as Alzheimer�... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1098791 Mon, 17 Dec 2007 02:00:28 +0100 1098791 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=885395&cid=t_193779_97_f&fid=35050&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmaGazette%2F%7E3%2F158660369%2Finterview_with_novartis_ceo_da_1.html In a recent interview with The New York Time, Novartis Pharmaceuticals CWO Daniel L. Vasella stated that though Americans have made progress in curing some diseases, the U.S is still facing a serious increase in obesity and aging-related diseases.Vasella criticized the U.S Food and Drug Administration for what he sees as its failure to act more quickly when approving new drugs. He also offers his opinion on a variety of topics in the interview including: American efforts at health care reform, the potential grow of Alzheimer’s and American’s complaints about the cost of drugs.For the complete interview visit: New York Times (Source: PharmaGazette) PharmaGazette blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=885395 Wed, 19 Sep 2007 19:30:37 +0100 885395 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=559048&cid=t_193779_137_f&fid=35371&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthecaregiver.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F04%2Fcaregiver-resources-for-employees.html This is a comprehensive list of resources. It is well worth copying for future reference.Source WorkforceAARP: This organization supplies information about caregiving, long-term care and aging, including publications and audiovisual aids for caregivers. The free online seminar Planning for the Care of Aging Parents is just one example of the educational resources provided.www.aarp.org/learn/course/ and www.aarp.org/research/housing-mobility/caregiving/(800) 424-2277Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline: Referral and support.info@alz.org(800) 272-3900Benefits CheckUp: This Web site, operated by the National Council on the Aging, identifies federal and state assistance programs for older Americans in each community.www.benefitscheckup.org and www.ncoa.orgCaregivers Marketplace: A free serv... CareGiver, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=559048 Sat, 21 Apr 2007 18:01:00 +0100 559048 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=518034&cid=t_193779_137_f&fid=35371&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthecaregiver.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F04%2Falzheimers-disease-what-is-it-who-gets.html Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of a condition called dementia. It is named for the German doctor who first described it, Alois Alzheimer. What is it? Who gets it? What causes it?The article was taken from the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center website. This is useful to clear up some of the misunderstanding about the Alzherimer's Disease.Alzheimer’s DiseaseWhat is it?Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of a condition called dementia. Dementia is a general decline in mental ability, such as memory, language skills, judgment, and concentration. Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, which means symptoms occur gradually and become worse over time. It is named for the German doctor who first described it, Alois Alzheimer.Who gets it?Alzheimer’s disease affects most co... CareGiver, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=518034 Tue, 03 Apr 2007 16:29:00 +0100 518034 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=513005&cid=t_193779_137_f&fid=35371&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthecaregiver.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F03%2F2007-alzheimers-disease-facts-and.html The links below will take you to the factsheets and full report published by the Alzheimer's Association.Quote Sheet (2 pages)FactSheet (2 pages)2007 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures (28 pages)The CareGiver Blog Robert T DeMarcoThe Alzheimer's Reading Room AllAmerican Senior Care Weblog Senior CareElder CareCareGiver Alzheimer’sDementia CareGiverHealth and wellnessWeblog (Source: CareGiver, The) CareGiver, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=513005 Tue, 20 Mar 2007 22:30:00 +0100 513005 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=513004&cid=t_193779_137_f&fid=35371&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthecaregiver.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F03%2Falzheimers-disease-rate-rises-to-more.html Someone Develops Alzheimer's Every 72 Seconds....More Than Five Million in the United States now have Alzheimer's.The Alzheimer’s Association today reports that in 2007 there are now more than 5 million people in the United States living with Alzheimer’s disease. This number includes 4.9 million people over the age of 65 and between 200,000 and 500,000 people under age 65 with early onset Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.Read more about this topic at The Alzheimer's Reading Room (Source: CareGiver, The) CareGiver, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=513004 Tue, 20 Mar 2007 21:23:00 +0100 513004 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=513013&cid=t_193779_137_f&fid=35371&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthecaregiver.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F03%2Fmany-alzheimers-caregivers-seek-help-in.html About a third of those who take care of loved ones with the disease feel 'more religious' because of their experiences, a new national study says.'There is no minute in which the caregiver can afford not to be vigilant over the patient, and that makes for a very trying kind of challenge.'— Dr. Jeffrey L. Cummings, founder and director of the UCLA Alzheimer's Disease CenterSource LA TimesBy Tami Abdollah, Times Staff WriterMarch 14, 2007Each morning Frances Chavis sneaks out of her house for 6 a.m. prayer, hoping to get back before her husband wakes up.Chavis, whose husband Lemuel, 72, was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2003, spends her days as a "shadow" — watching over her husband and the house, making sure everything is done correctly — and, when she can, she naps.And every ... CareGiver, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=513013 Thu, 15 Mar 2007 19:27:00 +0100 513013 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=513014&cid=t_193779_137_f&fid=35371&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthecaregiver.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F03%2Fwhat-happened-to-italian-bread.html My mother can no longer cook an egg, but one thing she can still do is cook delicious spaghetti sauce. Go figure huh?So today was the day to go to Mario’s in Delray Beach and pick up all the material for spaghetti sauce and meatballs. I may as well digress right here and mention the key to really delicious meatballs is a combination of hamburger, veal and pork all in the just right amounts. The good news, you can buy it already mixed at Mario’s.They make fresh baked bread at Mario’s, so I went over to the bakery section to get an Italian Bread. The women told me they would be out in about five minutes. This caused an immediate Pavlovian response in my mouth. We waited and ended up with a nice hot, fresh, Italian bread in a paper bag. Yummy.When we arrived home I divided up the giant ... CareGiver, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=513014 Mon, 12 Mar 2007 01:06:00 +0100 513014 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=544640&cid=t_193779_137_f&fid=35427&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcaregiverthebook.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F03%2Fwhat-happened-to-italian-bread.html My mother can no longer cook an egg, but one thing she can still do is cook delicious spaghetti sauce. Go figure huh?So today was the day to go to Mario’s in Delray Beach and pick up all the material for spaghetti sauce and meatballs. I may as well digress right here and mention the key to really delicious meatballs is a combination of hamburger, veal and pork all in the just right amounts. The good news, you can buy it already mixed at Mario’s.They make fresh baked bread at Mario’s, so I went over to the bakery section to get an Italian Bread. The women told me they would be out in about five minutes. This caused an immediate Pavlovian response in my mouth. We waited and ended up with a nice hot, fresh, Italian bread in a paper bag. Yummy.When we arrived home I divided up the giant ... CareGiver: The Book blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=544640 Sun, 11 Mar 2007 05:00:00 +0100 544640 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=513028&cid=t_193779_137_f&fid=35371&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthecaregiver.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F02%2Fstudy-links-seniors-loneliness-to.html Loneliness may put people at risk of an Alzheimer's-like dementia, a study reported Monday."People who described themselves as lonely were twice as likely to develop dementia," says researcher Robert Wilson of the Rush University Medical Center in Chicago.Source USA Today By Kathleen Fackelmann, USA TODAYLoneliness may put people at risk of an Alzheimer's-like dementia, a study reported Monday."People who described themselves as lonely were twice as likely to develop dementia," says researcher Robert Wilson of the Rush University Medical Center in Chicago.Other studies have found that people who are unmarried and socially isolated are at higher risk for dementia, including Alzheimer's. But this study is one of the first to show a link between loneliness — or the feelings of disconnection... CareGiver, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=513028 Mon, 26 Feb 2007 18:54:00 +0100 513028 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=513030&cid=t_193779_137_f&fid=35371&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthecaregiver.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F02%2Fcaring-for-caregivers.html Group meetings help those coping with dementia in a loved one.Caring for the CaregiversBy Elizabeth CooneyTELEGRAM & GAZETTE ecooney@telegram.comWORCESTER— You came to the right place, the group told the silver-haired woman who had just joined them.She took her seat on one of the 14 armchairs fanning out from the fireplace at Dodge Park Rest Home. Twice a month, people caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease meet to share supper, stories, strategies and support. Across the hall, their relatives can have a meal and take part in an activity while the two-hour session unfolds.The new arrival, who didn’t want her name used in the newspaper, told the group why she came.“I don’t think I know how to handle the situation with dementia,” she said about her husband’s disease... CareGiver, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=513030 Tue, 20 Feb 2007 18:15:00 +0100 513030 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=513007&cid=t_193779_137_f&fid=35371&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthecaregiver.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F02%2Fseven-stages-of-alzheimers.html Experts have documented common patterns of symptom progression that occur in many individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and developed several methods of “staging” based on these patterns.Source Alzheimer's AssociationThe Seven Stages of Alzheimer'sStaging systems provide useful frames of reference for understanding how the disease may unfold and for making future plans. But it is important to note that not everyone will experience the same symptoms or progress at the same rate. People with Alzheimer’s live an average of 8 years after diagnosis, but may survive anywhere from 3 to 20 years.The framework for this section is a system that outlines key symptoms characterizing seven stages ranging from unimpaired function to very severe cognitive decline. This framework is based on a syst... CareGiver, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=513007 Thu, 15 Feb 2007 18:18:00 +0100 513007 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=513026&cid=t_193779_137_f&fid=35371&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthecaregiver.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F01%2Fi-just-wanted-to-scream-stop-part-one.html I can still remember the day. An experience that told me: you are not alone; it’s all about the disease. An experience that let me know I could learn from the experience of others that came before me. That it would be possible for me to get ahead of the curve and get “mentally” prepared.I can still remember the day. An experience that told me: you are not alone; it’s all about the disease. An experience that let me know I could learn from the experience of others that came before me. That it would be possible for me to get ahead of the curve and get “mentally” prepared.In the beginning one of the things that drove me crazy was my mother’s constant eating. My mother would just eat and eat and eat. Even though she was overeating she would tell her friends on the telephone that ... CareGiver, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=513026 Tue, 16 Jan 2007 19:17:00 +0100 513026 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=544816&cid=t_193779_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Falzheimersreadingroom.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F01%2Fhuperzine-factsheet-alzheimers.html I recently read about Huperzine A. The following page contains a fact sheet about the herb. Huperzine A may have cognition-enhancing activity in some Alzheimer's patients.Source Huperzine ATRADE NAMESHuperzine A is available from numerous manufacturers generically. Branded products include Memorall (PharmAssure), Huperzine Rx-Brain (Nature's Plus).DESCRIPTIONHuperzine A is a plant alkaloid derived from the Chinese club moss plant, Huperzia serrata, which is a member of the Lycopodium species. Huperzia serrata has been used in Chinese folk medicine for the treatment of fevers and inflammation.Huperzine A has been found to have acetylcholinesterase activity. Huperzine B, also derived from Huperzia serrata, is a much less potent acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. Natural huperzine A is a chiral ... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=544816 Thu, 04 Jan 2007 05:00:00 +0100 544816 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=544814&cid=t_193779_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Falzheimersreadingroom.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F01%2Falzheimers-and-aging.html This MetLife website contains lots of useful information on Alzheimer's and Aging. It should be expecially useful to Baby Boomers and Caregivers.You can also read more on Alzheimer's at the CareGiver.The CareGiver BlogRobert T DeMarcoAllAmerican Senior CareAllAmerican Senior Care Weblog Senior CareElder CareCareGiver Alzheimer’sDementia CareGiver (Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The) Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=544814 Thu, 04 Jan 2007 05:00:00 +0100 544814 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=544806&cid=t_193779_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Falzheimersreadingroom.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F01%2Falzheimers-disease-what-is-it-who-gets.html Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of a condition called dementia. It is named for the German doctor who first described it, Alois Alzheimer. What is it? Who gets it? What causes it?Source Milton S. Hershey Medical Center.Alzheimer’s DiseaseWhat is it?Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of a condition called dementia. Dementia is a general decline in mental ability, such as memory, language skills, judgment, and concentration. Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, which means symptoms occur gradually and become worse over time. It is named for the German doctor who first described it, Alois Alzheimer.Who gets it?Alzheimer’s disease affects most commonly affects those over the age of 65, although it has been diagnosed in people in their 40s and 50s.What causes it?Th... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=544806 Thu, 04 Jan 2007 05:00:00 +0100 544806 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=513036&cid=t_193779_137_f&fid=35371&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthecaregiver.blogspot.com%2F2006%2F12%2Fannouncement-caregiver-book.html I started a new Weblog that is more directly related to the interactions of my mother and myself and our current journey.To read the book in progress go to Caregiver: the Book.The CareGiver Blog Robert T DeMarcoAllAmerican Senior Care AllAmerican Senior Care Weblog Senior CareElder CareCareGiver Alzheimer'sDementia CareGiverHealth and wellnessWeblog (Source: CareGiver, The) CareGiver, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=513036 Fri, 29 Dec 2006 03:04:00 +0100 513036 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=513040&cid=t_193779_137_f&fid=35371&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthecaregiver.blogspot.com%2F2006%2F12%2Fkeeping-time-with-alzheimers.html This is an excellent article that can be read in its entirety at the Alzheimer's Reading Room."When guilt catches up with me, I am on the bike path above the creek, ducks swimming along beside me. Guilt rolls off our backs like you know what. Alone at last, I walk at my own pace. Fast. Fast is what Ben can no longer do -- and fast is slow compared with the woman coming toward me as I near the marsh. She is wearing shorts and earphones. She smiles and I smile back. What a good idea this is, walking out in the sun and cold. What could produce better clarity? I don't have to work it out the first day. I don't have to do it right the first time."The CareGiver Blog Robert T DeMarcoAllAmerican Senior Care AllAmerican Senior Care Weblog Senior CareElder CareCareGiverAlzheimer's (Source: CareGiver... CareGiver, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=513040 Thu, 28 Dec 2006 21:14:00 +0100 513040 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=513008&cid=t_193779_137_f&fid=35371&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthecaregiver.blogspot.com%2F2006%2F12%2Falzheimers-disease-what-is-it.html Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of a condition called dementia. It is named for the German doctor who first described it, Alois Alzheimer. What is it? Who gets it? What causes it?The desciption below was taking from the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center website. This is useful to clear up some of the misunderstanding about the Alzherimer's Disease.Alzheimer’s DiseaseWhat is it?Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of a condition called dementia. Dementia is a general decline in mental ability, such as memory, language skills, judgment, and concentration. Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, which means symptoms occur gradually and become worse over time. It is named for the German doctor who first described it, Alois Alzheimer.Who gets it?Alzheimer’s disease affec... CareGiver, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=513008 Tue, 19 Dec 2006 23:08:00 +0100 513008 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=513032&cid=t_193779_137_f&fid=35371&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthecaregiver.blogspot.com%2F2006%2F12%2Fmy-mother-dynamo-2.html This is a picture of my mother Dorothy who is 90 years young, Kristen my mother's granddaughter, and Ryan her greatgrandson.This picture was taken at the Banana Boat in Boynton Beach Florida, May, 2006.The CareGiver Blog Robert T DeMarcoAllAmerican Senior Care AllAmerican Senior Care Weblog Senior CareElder CareCareGiver Alzheimer’sDementia CareGiverHealth and wellnessWeblog (Source: CareGiver, The) CareGiver, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=513032 Sat, 02 Dec 2006 03:51:00 +0100 513032 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=513022&cid=t_193779_137_f&fid=35371&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthecaregiver.blogspot.com%2F2006%2F11%2Fbenefits-check-up-for-seniors.html I recently stumbled on to BenefitsCheckUp offered by the National Council on Aging. All you need to do is fill out a short questionairre and the program identifies private and/or government programs that help pay for prescription drugs, health care, utilities, and other needs of seniors. Once you complete the questionairre the computer instantly generates a list of agencies and contact information that fit your profile. I was able to identify a real estate exemption that will save my mother more than $330 annually. The questionairre is easy to understand and to fill out. It generates the results instantly. Since it check across all kinds of federal, state and local agencies it saves you the time of calling each one or filling out seperate questionairres. In terms of time it will save ... CareGiver, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=513022 Wed, 22 Nov 2006 04:09:00 +0100 513022 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=513038&cid=t_193779_137_f&fid=35371&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthecaregiver.blogspot.com%2F2006%2F11%2Fall-american-senior-care-huperzine-in.html I just finished reading an interesting article about Huperzine A. You can get an excerpt, the link to the article and the link to the clinical trial on the next page.Follow this link to get the information about the clinical trial, Huperzine A in Alzheimer's DiseaseAlzheimer's herbHere is an excerpt from the article:Karen says when it comes to her mom, "It made her want to get up out of the chair, it made her want to go out to the pool and swim laps, it made her want to go out and prune her flowers."Another benefit Betty's family has seen: she has lost 50 pounds because she has been more active. Dr. DeCarli said this is just one example of clinical trials in action.Follow this link to the complete article, HerbAll American Senior Care The CareGiver Senior CareElder CareCareGiverAlzheimer�... CareGiver, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=513038 Sat, 18 Nov 2006 01:06:00 +0100 513038