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 'alzheimers disease'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 02:01:18 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5182066&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FcHHww-Xin4g%2F (Editor’s note: Pathways responsible for higher-order thinking in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), or executive center of the brain, remain vulnerable throughout life—during critical early-life developmental windows, when the PFC fully matures in the early 20s, and finally from declines associated with old age. At all ages, physical activity and PFC-navigated social connections are essential components to maintaining brain health. The Experience Corps, a community-based social-engagement program, partners seniors with local schools to promote purpose-driven involvement. Participating seniors have exhibited immediate short-term gains in brain regions vulnerable to aging, such as the PFC, indicating that people with the most to lose have the most to gain from environmental enrichment.) Over ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5182066 Tue, 30 Aug 2011 14:18:19 +0100 5182066 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5139643&cid=t_108786_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F08%2F17%2Flaunch-of-dementia-commissioning-pack%2F Title: Launch of Dementia Commissioning Pack Scan or click to download 'Launch of Dementia Commissioning Pack' The Skinny: Dear Colleague letter announcing publication of the Dementia Commissioning Pack provides practical resources for health and social care commissioners to work together to improve the quality of both specialist dementia services and general health and care services for people with dementia and their carers. Publisher: DH Published: 21/07/11 Size: 2p. Filed under: Ooops Missed Category! Tagged: Alzheimers Disease, Dementia, Grey Literature, Mental Disorders, Mental Health, Nervous system diseases, Older People, Pre senile dementia (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5139643 Wed, 17 Aug 2011 07:12:46 +0100 5139643 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5069647&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FLn-_yPbE_50%2F (Editor’s Note: this timely new report illustrates the need for innovative brain fitness interventions focused on maintaining if not enhancing targeted cognitive functionality, such as driving safety or financial decision-making, leveraging lifelong neuroplasticity and cognitive reserve. What the report presents as inexorable, somewhat genetically pre-programmed decline, it is not.) BMO Retirement Institute Report: Boomers’ Ability to Make Financial Decisions Often Declines With Age (Market Watch): - “The BMO Retirement Institute released a report today which raises awareness of the potential impact on aging Canadians of declining cognitive abilities — often caused by Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia — and describes how this decline can affect their ability to ma... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5069647 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 09:33:51 +0100 5069647 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5050914&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FO712DJOvAhQ%2F Very interesting new data reinforcing two main themes we have been analyzing for a while: 1) We better start paying serious attention (and R&D dollars) to lifestyle-based and non-invasive cognitive and emotional health interventions, which are mostly ignored in favor of invasive, drug-based options 2) Interventions will need to be personalized. The study below analyzes data at the country level, but the same logic applies to the individual level Many fear Alzheimer’s, want to be tested: survey (Reuters): - “The telephone survey of 2,678 adults aged 18 and older in the United States, France, Germany, Spain and Poland was conducted by researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health and Alzheimer Europe, with funding by Bayer AG” - “When asked to identify the most feared disea... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5050914 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 15:26:15 +0100 5050914 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4331116&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FtVPk1z9NXRg%2F Every Monday during the next 10 weeks we’ll discuss here what leading industry, science and policy experts –all of whom will speak at the upcoming 2011 SharpBrains Summit (March 30th — April 1st, 2011)– have to say about emerging opportunities and challenges to address, over the next 10 years, the growing brain-related societal demands. Without further ado, here you have what four Summit Speakers say… — Alvaro Pascual-Leone is the Direc­tor of the Berenson-Allen Cen­ter for Non-Invasive Brain Stim­u­la­tion at Har­vard Med­ical School. 1. How would you define “brain fitness” vs. “physical fitness”? Physical fitness can refer to an overall or general state of health and well-being. However, it is also often used more specifically to refer to the ability to perfor... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4331116 Mon, 10 Jan 2011 20:57:18 +0100 4331116 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4253101&cid=t_108786_87_f&fid=34902&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.futurepundit.com%2Farchives%2F007740.html The rate of formation of amyloid-beta in Alzheimer's disease brains is not the problem. Too slow removal of the peptide plaques in brains might be the real problem. Neurologists finally have an answer to one of the most important questions about Alzheimer's disease: Do rising brain levels of a plaque-forming substance mean patients are making more of it or that they can no longer clear it from their brains as effectively? "Clearance is impaired in Alzheimer's disease," says Randall Bateman, MD, assistant professor of neurology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. "We compared a group of 12 patients with early Alzheimer's disease to 12 age-matched and cognitively normal subjects. Both groups produced amyloid-beta (a-beta) at the same... (Source: FuturePundit) FuturePundit blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4253101 Sun, 12 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4253101 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4238012&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FtJ3OAq5ZZ_0%2F It is not easy to take care of someone suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease. Quality of life for both patients and caregivers usually deteriorate as the disease progresses. This issue also has an economic side: the care provided by family members is valued at nearly $144 billion. What would happen if caregivers could not carry on anymore? As this article from the Huffington post reminds us, there is no pill to help families stay together longer, and have happier lives. However there are a growing number of non-pharmacologic interventions that could achieve this. Improving quality of life for individuals with dementia and their families is a fundamental treatment goal, but consistently receives far less attention and funding than drug research. There are a growing number of such non-pharmac... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4238012 Tue, 07 Dec 2010 16:55:14 +0100 4238012 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4207276&cid=t_108786_87_f&fid=34902&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.futurepundit.com%2Farchives%2F007694.html The mouse conspiracy to cure themselves of all diseases continues apace. SAN FRANCISCO, CA—November 21, 2010— Scientists at the Gladstone Institute of Neurological Disease (GIND) in San Francisco have discovered a new strategy to prevent memory deficits in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Humans with AD and mice genetically engineered to simulate the disease have abnormally low levels of an enzyme called EphB2 in memory centers of the brain. Improving EphB2 levels in such mice by gene therapy completely fixed their memory problems. The findings will be published in the November 28 issue of the journal Nature. Just for the sake of argument imagine that a gene therapy delivered to every brain cell could raise levels of EphB2... (Source: FuturePundit) FuturePundit blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4207276 Sun, 28 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4207276 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4086391&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FFhw0Xv-nlrw%2F An interesting article in Nature Reviews last month reviewed several studies showing that cognitive intervention can be beneficial even for individuals already diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease (Buschert et al., 2010). The article shows that patients with mild-to-moderate dementia can benefit from a range of cognitive interventions: from training of partially spared cognitive functions to training on activities of daily living. Results suggest that such interventions can improve global cognition, abilities of daily living and quality of life in these patients. Patients with moderate-to-severe dementia seem to benefit from general engagement in activities that enhance cognitive and social functioning in a non-specific manner. In general, for patients diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease,... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4086391 Wed, 20 Oct 2010 19:40:46 +0100 4086391 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4036790&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FzRjTTh4vKtw%2F (Editor’s Note: what follows is an excerpt from Dr. Gary Small and Gigi Vorgan’s new book, The Naked Lady Who Stood on Her Head: A Psychiatrist’s Stories of His Most Bizarre Cases) CHAPTER TEN Brain Fog Summer 1990 Gigi and I had moved to Studio City, about a forty-minute commute to UCLA. On weekends, we often went to the movies at Universal CityWalk, a replication of Los Angeles within Los Angeles. Why people couldn’t just walk down the real streets of Los Angeles made no sense to me, yet there we were, on a Friday evening, eating ice cream and strolling down a simulated street. We had just seen Total Recall, Arnold Schwarzenegger’s new sciencefiction film about a construction worker who undergoes a false memory transplant that takes him on an imaginary trip to Mars. But... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4036790 Wed, 06 Oct 2010 12:05:41 +0100 4036790 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4018289&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F5gc1INDGsDw%2F You may find that too much media coverage on how to take good care of our brains is confusing, if not potentially misleading. In The True Story — is mental exercise good, bad, or irrelevant, Dr. Pascale Michelon dissects for you a recent large study which was largely reported as bad news when in fact it brings good news (no miracles, but good news).  We hope you enjoy her insightful analysis — and all the excellent articles that follow in the September edition of our monthly eNewsletter covering cognitive health and brain fitness topics. Please remember that you can use the box in the right column to subscribe and receive this newsletter via email. Do you Mind Dear sapiens sapiens, do you mind: Dr. Joshua Steinerman encourages you to ask yourself the tough ques­tions: Do you mind ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4018289 Thu, 30 Sep 2010 11:06:29 +0100 4018289 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4018290&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F3o5RXvNCqe0%2F We have received many good questions about the new SharpBrains Council for Brain Fitness Innovation — below you have some answers. Question: We are based in Asia/ Australia/ Europe. Will time differences prevent us from participating in monthly briefings and benefiting from the Council? Answer: We will do our best to facilitate a truly global community and exchange. Please consider that… we will schedule monthly briefings at 2 separate times, one at 9am US Pacific Time, the other at 4pm US Pacific Time, both covering the same topic (but perhaps with different guest speakers). And briefings will be recorded. most activities and resources are asynchronous anyway. Our market intelligence reports and other materials are available via this members-only online community 24/7, same as onlin... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4018290 Thu, 30 Sep 2010 09:41:40 +0100 4018290 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3994119&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F0MLsIF1ukR0%2F Today is World Alzheimer’s Day. To raise awareness and funds, associations worldwide organize multiple activities including important Memory Walks, and a new report helps quantify the growing personal and economic burden of the disease. Among the report findings: Close to 36 million people worldwide have dementia today Dementia care costs around 1 percent of the world’s gross domestic product (GDP), or 604 billion US dollars. Of these, 252 billion represent indirect costs of care, while annual direct medical costs account for 96 billion, and direct non-medical costs for 256 billion By 2030, worldwide societal costs will increase by over 85 percent The good news? That the number 1 reason for the bad news is simple: we live longer than ever before That, while there is nothing we can... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3994119 Tue, 21 Sep 2010 17:59:59 +0100 3994119 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3976591&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FHd6O6y9ycUw%2F Inter­est­ing arti­cle on The Dana Foundation website on how to monitor cognitive decline in the brain in the very early stages of Alzheimer’s: Functional MRI May Be Useful for Monitoring Cognitive Decline in the Elderly (Dana Foundation) Alzheimer’s researchers have long wanted to find better ways not only to diagnose the disease but also to monitor its progression from the earliest stages. A new study suggests that functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), a technique currently used mainly for neuroscience research or to guide brain surgery, could be useful in this clinical role. […] an elegant and thought-provoking study. (Source: SharpBrains) SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3976591 Thu, 16 Sep 2010 18:24:36 +0100 3976591 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3965548&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FvODGErZEFTs%2F (Editor’s Note: you may have read all the confusing –if not outright misleading– recent media coverage on the effect of mental stimulation on cognitive health and Alzheimer’s Disease. To help clarify matters, please find below part of the ongoing discussion at SharpBrains’ group in LinkedIn, and keep tuned since in a few days we’ll be publishing an analysis of the scientific study that, while bringing largely Good News, has been largely reported as Terrible News.) — Stuart • I just came across this article in Medical News…Mental Stimulation Delays The Decline In Thinking Skills, But May Accelerate Dementia Later On.… It’s the first time I have seen an article talking about the potential down side of mental stimulation in later life…I would be interested in the vie... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3965548 Mon, 13 Sep 2010 13:40:44 +0100 3965548 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3519571&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FOFU37fr3j-g%2F We are pleased to announce that, out of the 40 great entries submitted, the 10 Finalists to the 2010 Brain Fitness Innovation Awards moving to the next round are (ordered by approximate age of end user population, from younger to older): Arrowsmith School, USA Hockey, Nationwide Mutual Insurance, University Behavioral HealthCare/ University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey, Allstate, AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, Saint Luke’s Brain and Stroke Institute, Oakland Unified School District, Mental Health Association of Rockland County, SCAN Health Plan. Winners will be announced during the State of Brain Fitness Innovation Webinar on May 24th, noon-1pm Pacific Time. Registration is now open ($25), and includes executive summary of SharpBrains’ 2010 market report and acc... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3519571 Fri, 30 Apr 2010 14:32:23 +0100 3519571 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3519572&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FAjxawfNl8LU%2F An independent expert panel organized by the NIH released yesterday a thoughtful report on the state of the science for prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease and cognitive decline. The report, available here, summarizes the panel’s review by saying: “Firm conclusions cannot be drawn about the association of modifiable risk factors with cognitive decline or Alzheimer’s disease.” “There is insufficient evidence to support the use of pharmaceutical agents or dietary supplements to prevent cognitive decline or Alzheimer’s disease. However, ongoing additional studies including (but not limited to) antihypertensive medications, omega-3 fatty acid, physical activity, and cognitive engagement may provide new insight into the prevention or delay of cognitive decline ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3519572 Thu, 29 Apr 2010 20:16:41 +0100 3519572 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3471745&cid=t_108786_87_f&fid=34902&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.futurepundit.com%2Farchives%2F007095.html Turning on a blood-brain barrier protein known as P-glycoprotein lowers the level of beta amyloid of Alzheimer's mice to levels seen in normal mouse brains. Could avoidance of Alzheimer's be avoided just by turning on a gene to make a protein that transports beta amyloid protein out of the brain? "What we've shown in our mouse models is that we can reduce the accumulation of beta-amyloid protein in the brain by targeting a certain receptor in the brain known as the pregnane X receptor, or PXR," said Miller. The researchers from NIEHS and the University of Minnesota Duluth demonstrated that when 12-week-old genetically modified mice expressing human beta-amyloid protein are treated with a steroid-like chemical that activates PXR, the amount... (Source: FuturePundit) FuturePundit blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3471745 Tue, 13 Apr 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3471745 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3378605&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FHGMTOL6R3Gs%2F Today, in honor of both Brain Awareness Week (March 15-21) and Brain Injury Awareness Month (March), it is my pleasure to interview Patrick Donohue, founder of the Sarah Jane Brain Project, a foundation launched in 2007 with the explicit aim to create a model system for children suffering from all Pediatric Acquired Brain Injuries, and an implicit potential, in my view, to fundamentally transform medical research through the use of neuroinformatics and standarized systems of care. The Foundation: Story and Objectives Alvaro Fernandez: Patrick, thank you very much for your time today. Can you please provide an overall perspective into what you are doing and why? Patrick: Of course. The Sarah Jane Brain Project, named after my daughter Sarah Jane, started when she was shaken by her baby nurs... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3378605 Thu, 18 Mar 2010 14:22:13 +0100 3378605 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251261&cid=t_108786_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FdOmlDNvuZwo%2F Medicinal marijuana is finding its way into many areas of medicine. It’s a big help for some people with AIDS, providing them with a much-needed appetite. Marijuana is helpful for some people with cancer, helping them manage their side effects, and it’s also been found to help people with glaucoma, just to name a few. There was hope that medicinal marijuana would provide help for people with Alzheimers because earlier animal studies had shown that marijuana could reduce the plaques in the brain that are the hallmark of Alzheimers. Although this new study, from the University of British Columbia, is also an animal study, it was done with mice, which are considered to be a better match for human studies, while the previous ones were done on rats. The researcher used the same meth... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251261 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 15:57:50 +0100 3251261 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3171844&cid=t_108786_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F01%2F14%2Fimproving-dementia-services-in-england-an-interim-report%2F Title: Improving dementia services in England – an interim report (Executive Summary) Skinny: Interim report from the National Audit Office that identifies that while the Department of Health has developed an ambitious and comprehensive strategy for dementia. There has not yet been a robust approach to implementation and t has not been given the levers or urgency normally expected for such a priority and there is a risk that value for money will remain poor unless these weaknesses are addressed urgently. Dementia was not included in the Department’s tier 1 Vital Signs indicators for the NHS, through which it monitors performance. Other levers built into the NHS’ devolved management arrangements, such as joined-up commissioning and comprehensive performance information, are not ye... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3171844 Thu, 14 Jan 2010 08:06:27 +0100 3171844 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3149010&cid=t_108786_87_f&fid=34902&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.futurepundit.com%2Farchives%2F006853.html After years of reports aimed at looking for a causal relationship between cell phone use and brain cancer a new report finds that in mice genetically engineered to get Alzheimer's exposure to electromagnetic waves is protective. Tampa, FL (Jan. 6, 2010) – The millions of people who spend hours every day on a cell phone may have a new excuse for yakking. A surprising new study in mice provides the first evidence that long-term exposure to electromagnetic waves associated with cell phone use may actually protect against, and even reverse, Alzheimer's disease. The study, led by University of South Florida researchers at the Florida Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (ADRC), was published today in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease. "It surprised... (Source: FuturePundit) FuturePundit blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3149010 Thu, 07 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3149010 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3111365&cid=t_108786_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F22%2Fjournal-of-the-american-medical-association-2009-vol-302-no-23%2F The objective of this study is to determine the efficacy, safety, and tolerabilityof tarenflurbil. An NHS password is needed to access this journal online. A print copy if available from the library. Posted in Current Awareness, Journals Tagged: Alzheimers Disease, Drug Therapy, Research (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3111365 Tue, 22 Dec 2009 13:57:33 +0100 3111365 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3044685&cid=t_108786_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F01%2Fgovernment-response-to-professor-sube-banerjee%25e2%2580%2599s-report-on-the-prescribing-of-anti-psychotic-drugs-to-people-with-dementia%2F Title: Government response to Professor Sube Banerjee’s report on the prescribing of anti-psychotic drugs to people with dementia Skinny: Government response to Professor Sube Bannerjee’s independent clinical review of the use of anti-psychotic drugs.  This was conducted in recognition of widespread concern about the over-prescription of anti-psychotic drugs, and as part of the priority being given to improving care for people with dementia. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 2p. Published: 12/11/2009 Posted in Alzheimers Disease, Dementia, Grey Literature, NHS Tagged: Alzheimers Disease, Anti-Psychotics, Dementia, Drug Therapy, Ethics, Grey Literature (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3044685 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 08:40:20 +0100 3044685 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3044686&cid=t_108786_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F01%2Fthe-use-of-antipsychotic-medication-for-people-with-dementia-time-for-action-a-report-for-the-minister-of-state-for-care-services%2F Title: The use of antipsychotic medication for people with dementia: Time for action. A report for the Minister of State for Care Services Skinny: Clinical review of the use of anti-psychotic drugs conducted in recognition of widespread concern about the over-prescription of anti-psychotic drugs, and as part of the priority being given to improving care for people with dementia. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 63p. Published: 12/11/2009 Posted in Alzheimers Disease, Dementia, Grey Literature, Older People Tagged: Alzheimers Disease, Anti-Psychotics, Drug Therapy, Ethics, Grey Literature (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3044686 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 08:35:36 +0100 3044686 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3044879&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F2wBLXqKGsKE%2F Discussion on the future of computerized cognitive behavioral therapy; United BioSource acquires Cognitive Drug Research; innovative partnership between Navigenics and Posit Science; new research on brain impact of Tetris; how a drop in visual skills may precede Alzheimer’s Disease;  excellent report by the National Academies for the US Army available for free now. Brain Teaser Who will you believe, me or your own eyes? discover the 3 Winners of the 2009 Best Visual Illusion of the Year Contest. Neuroscientists Susana Martinez-Conde and Stephen Macknik, who help organize the contest, will give a fun demo on Magic and the Brain at SharpBrains Summit, to discuss the limits of human perception and cognition. Enjoy the final month of 2009! (Source: SharpBrains) SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3044879 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:30:59 +0100 3044879 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2999698&cid=t_108786_125_f&fid=34820&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dentalblogs.com%2Farchives%2Fadministrator%2Fstudy-shows-connection-between-gum-disease-and-memory-problems%2F We know that gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss for American adults. It also causes an increased risk for health problems, from heart attack and stroke to diabetes complications and low-weight births. But new evidence shows that periodotnal disease can impair mental function, outside of the established connection between gum disease and Alzheimer’s or dementia. The newfound link may stem from inflammation in the body that originates in the mouth. The study, led by Dr. James Noble, involved 2,350 subjects of various  genders who were tested for periodontal disease, then underwent a series of mental skills assessments. Adults over 60 with a high level of Porphyromonas gingivalis, a pathogen that causes gum disease, were three times more likely to forget a three-word sequen... dental blog for dentists about dentistry blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2999698 Tue, 17 Nov 2009 14:21:32 +0100 2999698 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2993735&cid=t_108786_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F11%2F14%2Freport-from-the-ministerial-summit-on-dementia-research%2F Title: Report from the Ministerial Summit on Dementia Research Skinny: Independent report from the Ministerial Summit on Dementia Research. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 63p Published: 05/11/2009 Posted in Dementia, Grey Literature Tagged: Alzheimers Disease, Dementia, Grey Literature (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2993735 Sat, 14 Nov 2009 20:17:14 +0100 2993735 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2989103&cid=t_108786_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F11%2F13%2Farchives-of-neurology-2009-vol-66-no-11%2F contents page Fade Fave: Association of Muscle Strength With the Risk of Alzheimer Disease and the Rate of Cognitive Decline in Community-Dwelling Older Persons Fade Skinny: Confirms a link between muscle strength, Alzheimers Disease, and cognitive decline in older persons. (NHS Athens is required to access this article online) Current Awareness Feedback Form Posted in Athens Password, Current Awareness, E-Journals Tagged: Alzheimers Disease, Athens Password, Current Awareness, E-Journals, Neurology (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2989103 Fri, 13 Nov 2009 12:00:33 +0100 2989103 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2924900&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FGe5cptnSnbE%2F A few eternal questions: - Is caffeine good for the brain? - Does it boost cognitive functions? - Does it protect against dementia? There is little doubt that drinking that morning cup of coffee will likely increase alertness, but the main questions that research is trying to answer go beyond that. Basically: is there a sustained, lifetime, benefit or harm from drinking coffee regularly? The answer, so far, contains good news and bad news. The good news for coffee drinkers is that most of the long-term results are directionally more positive than negative, so no clear harm seems to occur. The bad news is that it is not clear so far whether caffeine has beneficial effects on general brain functions, either short-term or long-term (aged-related decline or risks of dementia). It is important ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2924900 Sat, 24 Oct 2009 21:22:26 +0100 2924900 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2855729&cid=t_108786_125_f&fid=34820&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dentalblogs.com%2Farchives%2Fadministrator%2Fdeter-risk-for-periodontal-disease-reduce-risk-of-heart-attack-with-diet-and-exercise%2F Gum disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss in the US. However, the heart-health link to periodontal disease has become an even hotter topic , and rightfully so. We now know that gum disease can increase a person’s risk for a long list of overall health conditions, some of which are serious – heart attack, stroke, diabetes complications, low-weight birth, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, osteoporosis, and respiratory diseases. “The Gingivitis Diet,” at www.HealthyFellow.com reviews these interesting developments and research on this topic. One study showed that of 1200 older men, those who consumed increased caortenoids (a type of antioxidants found in bright fruits and veggies) had reduced proclivity for periodontitis. Journal of Clinical Periodontology Another stu... dental blog for dentists about dentistry blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2855729 Fri, 02 Oct 2009 14:14:15 +0100 2855729 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2846330&cid=t_108786_87_f&fid=34902&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.futurepundit.com%2Farchives%2F006583.html A protein implicated in as a cause of Alzheimer's Disease increases in mice while they are away and declines while they are asleep. The implication here is that people who... (Source: FuturePundit) FuturePundit blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2846330 Tue, 29 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2846330 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2890783&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FqsGYQ0uSV5g%2F In the midst of much healthcare reform talk, not enough attention seems focused on ensuring healthcare systems’ preparedness to deal with cognitive health issues -with Alzheimer’s Disease as the most dramatic example- which are predicted to grow given aging population trends. Today is World Alzheimer’s Day, and the USA Today comments on a new report that makes stark predictions: Global Alzheimer’s cases expected to rise sharply (USA Today) - “The 2009 World Alzheimer’s Report, released today, estimates 35 million people worldwide are living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. The figure is a 10% increase over 2005 numbers.” - “The number of people affected by Alzheimer’s is growing at a rapid rate, and the increasing per... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2890783 Mon, 21 Sep 2009 13:48:39 +0100 2890783 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2814561&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FqsGYQ0uSV5g%2F In the midst of much healthcare reform talk, not enough attention seems focused on ensuring healthcare systems' preparedness to deal with cognitive health issues -with Alzheimer's Disease as the most dramatic example- which are predicted to grow given aging population trends. Today is World Alzheimer's Day, and the USA Today comments on a new report that makes stark predictions: Global Alzheimer's cases expected to rise sharply (USA Today) - "The 2009 World Alzheimer's Report, released today, estimates 35 million people worldwide are living with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. The figure is a 10% increase over 2005 numbers." - "The number of people affected by Alzheimer's is growing at a rapid rate, and the increasing personal costs will have significant impact on t... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2814561 Mon, 21 Sep 2009 13:48:39 +0100 2814561 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2800306&cid=t_108786_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F09%2F16%2Farchives-of-neurology-2009-vol-66-no-9%2F This study aims to establish whether the rates of conversion from mild cognitive impairment to dementia differed according to recruitment source and, if so, to investigate factors that might explain this discrepancy. It suggests that the degree of functional impairment at baseline is an important predictor of conversion to dementia and may help explain differences in findings between epidemiological and clinic-based studies. (NHS Athens is required to access this article online) Posted in Access from Home, Access from Work, Access in the Library, Athens Password, Current Awareness, E-Journals Tagged: Alzheimers Disease, Athens Password, Current Awareness, Dementia, E-Journals, Neurology (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2800306 Wed, 16 Sep 2009 08:00:20 +0100 2800306 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2778668&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FSvrw5fO0SxM%2Fscientists-identify-two-gene-variants.html In the largest genome-wide association study (GWAS) reported to date involving Alzheimer's disease, scientists have identified two new possible genetic risk factors for late-onset Alzheimer's, the most common form of the disease. The study, which pooled DNA samples from a number of European and U.S. groups, not only associated variations in the sequence of the CLU and PICALM genes with increased risk, but also found another 13 gene variants that merit further investigation, according to findings presented in the September 6, 2009, online issue of Nature Genetics. Involving more than 16,000 DNA samples, one feature of this research was its use of publicly shared DNA samples and databases, including several supported by the National Institute on Aging (NIA) and other components of the Natio... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2778668 Tue, 08 Sep 2009 23:31:25 +0100 2778668 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2778375&cid=t_108786_87_f&fid=34902&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.futurepundit.com%2Farchives%2F006522.html More evidence that inflammation contributes to the development of Alzheimer's. The study found that people who had respiratory, gastrointestinal or other infections or even bumps and bruises from a fall... (Source: FuturePundit) FuturePundit blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2778375 Mon, 07 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2778375 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2768681&cid=t_108786_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F_uwBWoX1z2c%2F Research with Alzheimer’s and diabetes both seem to get more exciting every day. Don’t you think? Here’s some more exciting news: N60. The name “N60″ is something you’ll hear more and more because it is a specific section of “RanBP9, a protein that has proven key in Alzheimer’s research. According to Science Daily, RanBP9 “increases the production of the amyloid beta protein,” which is important because patients with Alzheimer’s have an extreme amount of this protein. More so than those without the disease. In short, the hope is that discovering what makes this “amyloid beta protein” go gangbusters in patients will lead to stopping the progression. And therefore, the disease. Image: sxc.hu. ... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2768681 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 22:08:09 +0100 2768681 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2709091&cid=t_108786_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F08%2F18%2Farchives-of-neurology-2009-vol-66-no-8%2F contents page Fade Fave: Seizures in Alzheimer Disease: Who, When, and How Common? Fade Skinny: Transient symptoms in Alzheimer disease (AD) are frequent and include seizures, syncope, and episodes of inattention or confusion. The incidence of seizures in AD and predictors of which patients with AD might be more predisposed to them is based primarily on retrospective studies and is not well established. Article identifies that younger age is a risk factor for seizures in AD. (NHS Athens is required to access this article online) Posted in Access from Home, Access from Work, Access in the Library, Athens Password, Current Awareness, E-Journals Tagged: Alzheimers Disease, Athens Password, Current Awareness, E-Journals, Neurology, Seizures (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2709091 Tue, 18 Aug 2009 06:36:45 +0100 2709091 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2705109&cid=t_108786_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F08%2F17%2Fjournal-of-the-american-medical-association-2009-vol-302-no-6%2F Journal of the American Medical Association 2009 (Vol. 302 No. 6) Contents Fade Fave: Physical Activity, diet and risk of Alzheimer’s disease Fade Skinny: Adhering to a Mediterranean-type diet and more physical activity have independently been associated with lowering the risk of Alzheimer’s disease but their combined association has not been investigated. The article investigates whether a combination of Mediterranean-type diet and increased physical exercise reduces the risk of developing AD. An NHS Athens password is required to access this article online Posted in Current Awareness, Journals Tagged: Alzheimers Disease, Diet, Diet Nutrition, Exercise, Prevalence, Risk (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2705109 Mon, 17 Aug 2009 09:43:45 +0100 2705109 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2598278&cid=t_108786_109_f&fid=35671&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.anxietyinsights.info%2Fptsd_linked_to_higher_alzheimers_diseasedementia_risk.htm Niles Frantz - Alzheimer's Association Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is common among veterans returning from combat and there is some evidence that it may be associated with reduced cognitive function. However, no study has yet investigated if PTSD increases the risk of developing dementia. To address this emerging issue, Kristine Yaffe, MD, Professor of Psychiatry, Neurology and Epidemiology and Associate Chair of Research for the Department of Psychiatry at the University of California, San Francisco, and Chief of Geriatric Psychiatry and Director of the Memory Disorders Clinic at the San Francisco VA Medical Center, and colleagues sought to determine if PTSD is associated with risk of developing dementia among older veterans in the U.S. receiving treatment in veterans' medical c... Latest entries from www.anxietyinsights.info blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2598278 Tue, 14 Jul 2009 08:26:00 +0100 2598278 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2510372&cid=t_108786_87_f&fid=34902&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.futurepundit.com%2Farchives%2F006301.html A skin test holds out the prospect of a much earlier detection of Alzheimer's. disease. A novel test that detects enzymes that are dysfunctional in patients with Alzheimer's disease--and that... (Source: FuturePundit) FuturePundit blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2510372 Wed, 17 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2510372 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2398980&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FAyoXV9F9bj4%2F Stanford Issues Findings from Cognitive and Brain Experts Urging Consumer Caution on Memory Fitness Products (press release) - "Fear of memory loss, mental impairment and Alzheimer's disease lead many consumers to search for products --- from supplements to software --- that claim to ward off such ailments," Laura L. Carstensen, founding director of the Stanford Center on Longevity, said. "Such products are becoming more prolific, but this burgeoning industry is completely unregulated and the claims can range from reasonable though untested, to blatantly false. It is important for consumers to proceed with caution before buying into many of these product claims. There is no magic bullet solution for cognitive decline." - The Summit's (Note: held in April 2008) statement... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2398980 Fri, 08 May 2009 23:38:05 +0100 2398980 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2382640&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FqaQH2_3wovU%2F Here you have the April edition of our monthly newsletter covering cognitive health and brain fitness topics. Please remember that you can subscribe to receive this Newsletter by email, using the box at the top of this page. We are excited to release our 2009 market report The State of the Brain Fitness Software Market 2009. To be formally released on May 4th but available now for our clients and readers, this report aims to inform decision-makers at healthcare, insurance, research, public policy, investment and technology organizations about important developments in the brain fitness and cognitive health space. 2009 Market Report The State of the Brain Fitness Software Market 2009: This new 150-page report finds sustained growth in the brain fitness software market (from $225m in 2007 t... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2382640 Fri, 01 May 2009 13:53:07 +0100 2382640 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2376433&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FzeWHTMKI15E%2F (Editor's Note: I recently came across an excellent book and resource, The Alzheimer's Action Plan: The Experts' Guide to the Best Diagnosis and Treatment for Memory Problems, just released in paperback. Dr. Murali Doraiswamy, one of the authors and leading Alzheimer's expert, kindly helped us create a 2-part article series to share with SharpBrains readers advice on a very important question, "How can we help the public at large to distinguish Alzheimer's Disease from normal aging --- so that an interest in early identification doesn't translate into unneeded worries?" What follows is an excerpt from the book, pages 3-8). --- Jane, fifty-seven, managed a large sales force. She prided herself on being good at names, and introductions were easy for her—until last spring when she... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2376433 Wed, 29 Apr 2009 19:47:27 +0100 2376433 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2320469&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F5wXddSnEZ2E%2F This study investigated whether these problems can be overcome by a training program designed to boost working memory. Children with low working memory skills were assessed on measures of working memory, IQ and academic attainment before and after training on either adaptive or non-adaptive versions of the program. Adaptive training that taxed working memory to its limits was associated with substantial and sustained gains in working memory, with age-appropriate levels achieved by the majority of children. Mathematical ability also improved significantly 6 months following adaptive training. These findings indicate that common impairments in working memory and associated learning difficulties may be overcome with this behavioral treatment. 9) Brain cortex thinning linked to inherited depre... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2320469 Sat, 28 Mar 2009 03:38:54 +0100 2320469 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2273743&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FOXl-qH52q7M%2F If you subscribe to our monthly newsletter, you may remember we ran a survey in January. Well, the response rate and the quality of the responses were nothing short of spectacular, in many dimensions. The responses from over 2,000 participants (out of 21,000 subscribers) reinforce the need for public awareness initiatives and quality information to help evaluate and navigate product claims. I have been presenting the results from one of the questions (see below), yesterday at the ASA/ NCOA (American Society on Aging) event, today at IHRSA (International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association), as part of more comprehensive presentations of what is going on in the brain fitness and cognitive health field. An obvious implication for the survey result reinforces the need for brain-related... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2273743 Wed, 18 Mar 2009 03:04:01 +0100 2273743 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2217627&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2FgAFeyCIEMYo%2F CONCLUSIONS What those 2 recent studies say and imply • Cognitive training can help healthy adults improve specific cognitive skills, and improvements seem to last longer than the training itself (Willis et al., 2006; Smith et al., 2009). • Cognitive training can help adults in the early stages of cognitive impairment and dementia improve some cognitive skills (Sitzer et al, 2006) • One needs to make informed decisions. SharpBrains' Evaluation Checklist may prove useful. What neither study says or implies • Whether cognitive training can postpone the emergence of dementia: More long-term studies are needed. (We know that mentally stimulating activities can help build a Cognitive Reserve and delay symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease, but that evidence is not based on randomized clini... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2217627 Thu, 26 Feb 2009 18:21:56 +0100 2217627 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2173830&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F536056048%2F Study Questions Effectiveness Of $80 Million Per Year 'Brain Exercise Products Industry for Elderly (Science Daily) - "There is much research on the benefits of cognitive rehabilitation strategies among elderly who already experience mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or Alzheimer's disease, as well as on the positive impact of physical exercise. The researchers, however, wanted to evaluate current research that would focus on the impact of cognitive interventions in the healthy elderly population." - "...they concluded that there was no evidence indicating that structured cognitive intervention programs had an impact on the progression of dementia in the healthy elderly population" Comment:  we have not reviewed the analysis yet, so cannot comment in depth. However, just... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2173830 Tue, 10 Feb 2009 01:10:15 +0100 2173830 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2160506&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FVvUiKwjpwis%2F According to researchers at Northwestern University, the use of insulin may help protect Alzheimer’s patients from this disease.  It may slow or prevent memory loss in those with a prevalence toward Alzhimer’s.  In other findings, scientists indicate that Alzheimer’s may be a form of diabetes. For more information and scientific details, visit Insulin May Protect against Alzheimer’s Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimer's Research, Alzheimers, Alzheimers-disease, diabetes, insulin, Mary Emma, Mary Emma Allen, memory-lossShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2160506 Wed, 04 Feb 2009 23:25:57 +0100 2160506 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2156349&cid=t_108786_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F02%2F03%2Fliving-well-with-dementia-a-national-dementia-strategy%2F provides the strategic framework within which local services can: deliver quality improvements to dementia services and address health inequalities relating to dementia; provide advice and guidance and support for health and social care commissioners and providers in the planning, development and monitoring of services; and provide a guide to the content of high-quality services for dementia. Accessible Summary Implementation Plan Impact Assessment Equality Impact Assessment Posted in Alzheimers Disease, Commissioning, Dementia, Grey Literature, Local Authorities, Mental Health, NHS, Older People, Practice Based Commissioning, Quality, Social Services   Tagged: Alzheimers Disease, Commissioning, Dementia, Equity, Grey Literature, Inequalities, Memory, NHS, Quality, So... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2156349 Tue, 03 Feb 2009 11:14:16 +0100 2156349 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2152943&cid=t_108786_87_f&fid=34902&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.futurepundit.com%2Farchives%2F005932.html Here is more evidence for the theory that Alzheimer's is due to a special form of insulin-insensitive diabetes of the brain. Insulin blocks toxic proteins from damaging nerve cells. EVANSTON,... (Source: FuturePundit) FuturePundit blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2152943 Mon, 02 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2152943 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2079024&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F499744733%2F Dear reader and member of SharpBrains' community, We want to thank you for your attention and support in 2008, and wish you a Happy, Prosperous, Healthy and Positive 2009! Below you have the December edition of our monthly newsletter. Enjoy: Best of 2008 Announcing the SharpBrains Most Important Book of 2008: Neuroscientist Torkel Klingberg has written a very stimulating and accessible book on a crucial topic for our Information Age: The Overflowing Brain: Information Overload and the Limits of Working Memory. We have named it The SharpBrains Most Important Book of 2008, and asked Dr. Klingberg to write a brief article to introduce his research and book to you. Enjoy it here. Top 30 Brain Fitness Articles of 2008: We have compiled SharpBrains' 30 most popular articles, written by thirteen... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2079024 Wed, 31 Dec 2008 21:25:51 +0100 2079024 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2065307&cid=t_108786_87_f&fid=34902&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.futurepundit.com%2Farchives%2F005819.html Constricted blood vessels caused by aging might set in motion the sequence of events that cause proteins to clump up and cause Alzheimer's Disease progression. CHICAGO --- A slow, chronic... (Source: FuturePundit) FuturePundit blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2065307 Thu, 25 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2065307 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2053746&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F489938436%2F Learning & the Brain is a conference that gets marked on my calendar annually because I always return home having either been exposed to new information, or with a new perspective on an old topic. Last month’s conference in Cambridge, MA, themed Using Emotions Research to Enhance Learning & Achievement, was no exception. As with previous conferences, in addition to the many keynote sessions, I focused on the adult learning strand, since so much of my time is spent providing professional development for, and collaborating with adults. Here are five conference cues as they relate to education. 1. CHALLENGE YOURSELF WITH NEW LEARNING Aaron Nelson stated that our memory starts to decline between ages twenty-five and thirty, or to phrase it a bit more positively, Sam Wang says our m... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2053746 Fri, 19 Dec 2008 22:10:09 +0100 2053746 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2034175&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F481061535%2F The Alzheimer's Foundation of America just released a thoughtful report advocating for widespread cognitive screenings after the age of 65 (55 given the right conditions). According to the press release, - "The report shatters unsubstantiated criticism and instead emphasizes the safety and cost-effectiveness of these tools and calls on Congress to develop a national dementia screening policy." - “Lifting the barriers to early detection is long overdue,” Hall said. “Conversations about brain health are not taking place. We must educate and empower consumers to talk openly about memory concerns, particularly with primary care providers, so they get the attention and quality of life they deserve.” - "Demand for screenings is evidenced by the success of AFA’s recent si... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2034175 Wed, 10 Dec 2008 23:13:32 +0100 2034175 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2021626&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FsmcOnmlhbuU%2F As we try to learn more about Alzheimer’s, especially if we’re caring for a family member or a resident in a nursing home, we’re appreciative of books and online resources that can help us understand this memory (actually lack of) condition better.  When Mother and Auntie became ill with Alzheimer’s, I had mainly books to turn to.  The Internet wasn’t well advanced with information and support groups for us. So, in order to assist my readers in a better understanding, I try to find resources for them. Psych Central, which offers information about numerous illnesses, provides many articles about Alzheimer’s for the family caregiver and professional.  You’ll find Alzheimer’s explained, caregiver’s guides, overview of the disease, and ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2021626 Sun, 07 Dec 2008 21:30:38 +0100 2021626 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1980964&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F4-u8uJYJKh0%2F Alzheimer’s Awareness Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness at EverydayHealth.com offers a great deal of information about this illness. The Alzheimer’s Association provides a wealth of information.  The National Institute of Aging (NIA) provides Alzheimer’s information at the Alzheimer’s Disease Education & Referral Center (ADEAR). Alzheimer’s Australia lets you know about information and resources in that country. OurAlzheimers.com at Health Central is another good resource. What has been a good resource for you? Tags: Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimer's resources, Alzheimers-disease, health, Mary Emma Allen, mental health, National Alzheimer's Awareness Month, online resourcesShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1980964 Fri, 21 Nov 2008 21:55:38 +0100 1980964 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1960715&cid=t_108786_87_f&fid=34902&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.futurepundit.com%2Farchives%2F005710.html A genetic variation that boosts Alzheimer's also reduces the ability of cells to expel toxic compounds. The only known genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease slows down the brain's ability... (Source: FuturePundit) FuturePundit blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1960715 Fri, 14 Nov 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1960715 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1930764&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F440107576%2F A beautiful initiative, featured in the New York Times today: Coming Full Circle: - "In a typical Montessori classroom, teachers use category-sorting exercises to help young students see patterns and connections. But the participants in this group were mostly in their 80s and on the other side of the cognitive development curve. They are residents at an assisted-living facility for people with dementia called Hearthstone at the Esplanade, which has six other homes in New York State and Massachusetts. Since July the residents have participated in a full-time program of Montessori-based activities designed for people with memory deficiencies." - "A common misconception about people with dementia, Dr. Camp said, is that they no longer learn. But they do: residents learn to find... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1930764 Sun, 02 Nov 2008 17:53:36 +0100 1930764 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1918083&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FLxGhormMPWo%2F Green Living Are you practicing “green” living in your home?  Perhaps it’s difficult to do so in an Alzheimer’s home.  Perhaps you’re not too enthusiastic about “going green” and feel it takes too much effort.  Maybe you don’t believe it helps. You don’t have to be a fanatic, simply practice some frugal ways that also may help the environment and your home. At our home, we: Separate the cans and bottles to take to the town recycling center.  (They sort of require this.) Used cold water rinsing for the clothes.  (This should help cut down on the electric bill if you heat your water with electricity.) Kept the paper trash separate from the kitchen trash so we can put it into the paper collection at the recycling center. (This also i... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1918083 Thu, 30 Oct 2008 04:32:36 +0100 1918083 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1901693&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FZ0NcpSMkGqs%2F Crafts for Alzheimer’s Patients Alzheimer’s patients, at least while they are still mobile, can use their hands, and have some connection with reality, enjoy participating in crafts.  Even those who can no longer participate often enjoy watching. Susan S. wrote me an inquiry about crafts for patients with dementia who live in nursing homes. Our church group gos once a month to a home that has people with dementia. We go there to do crafts with them I have so much fun.  Can you help me with some of the crafts that I can do with them? Tell me what kind of things that they can do. Thank you. Do you have any suggestions to help Susan?  I have worked with assisted living residents and dementia patients in a nursing home in scrapbooking and family history/memory projects.  My ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1901693 Fri, 24 Oct 2008 03:32:53 +0100 1901693 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1902599&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F429090832%2F A couple of recent research findings are making the media rounds, bringing much needed attention to the high Alzheimer's rates among Latinos and to preventive approaches based on the Cognitive Reserve - such as, what jobs we choose: More Alzheimer's risk for Hispanics, studies find (International Herald Tribune): - Studies suggest that many Hispanics may have more risk factors for developing dementia than other groups, and a significant number appear to be getting Alzheimer's earlier. And surveys indicate that Latinos, less likely to see doctors because of financial and language barriers, more often mistake dementia symptoms for normal aging, delaying diagnosis. - "This is the tip of the iceberg of a huge public health challenge," said Yanira Cruz, president of the National Hisp... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1902599 Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:27:46 +0100 1902599 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1837456&cid=t_108786_134_f&fid=36049&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FDiabetesNotes%2F%7E3%2F2OXg5SBFl7E%2F Here is a recap of all of the health and wellness channel’s 12 step posts… Thanks Liz at Healthbolt for doing the roundup! September is National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recover Month and in recognition of this, the bloggers at b5Media’s Health and Wellness Channel have put together their interpretation of the 12 Steps, looking at each step not just from it’s orginal intent but also in relation to their own blog topic. The result is an interesting and informative group of posting that provides ‘food for thought’ in own lives. We’ve all heard of the 12 Step Program, but most of us won’t be able to recite what each step was. That’s because we are lucky enough not to need to. But for thousands of people around the world, the 12 steps is their world. Mark over at A... Diabetes Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1837456 Sat, 27 Sep 2008 00:14:57 +0100 1837456 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1790710&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F390824692%2F Several months ago we came across an excellent resource for cognitive/ brain fitness aimed at helping companies offer quality brain health information to their employees. While it is true that we often tend to believe all this "brain fitness" stuff is most relevant to our parents and/ or grandparents, trust me, if you are reading this you have a brain which would also benefit from learning about how it works and how to maintain it with proper care. And, from a company's point of view, isn't "talent" and "human capital" all about brain fitness and cognitive performance, really? The Conference Board and the Dana Alliance for Brain Initiatives (descriptions below) launched last year a program to "teach simple, practical strategies for incorporating brain-fri... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1790710 Fri, 12 Sep 2008 17:05:40 +0100 1790710 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1746452&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FF99wwh26wpQ%2F Hi everyone, I’t’s with sadness that I say farewell to Alzheimer’s Notes. But after almost a year and a half of blogging alongside Mary Emma here at Alzheimer’s Notes, I have decided that it is time to move on. I’d love to stay, but as all of you know, if you find that there are not enough hours in each day to do everything that you have to, something has to give. And I’m afraid, for me, that something is giving up Alzheimer’s Notes. I’ll still be hanging around the b5Media network, blogging at Healthbolt and Traveling the Green Way, so stop by if you want to say hi. A heartfelt thanks to Mary Emma, who puts her heart and soul into making Alzheimer’s Notes a warm and friendly place to be. And to all Alzheimer’s Notes readers - man... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1746452 Sun, 31 Aug 2008 10:38:06 +0100 1746452 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1739309&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FCykdE9Xo6XE%2F A personal story of a family dealing with Alzheimer’s disease… Tags: Alzheimers-disease, personal stories, videosShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1739309 Fri, 29 Aug 2008 09:58:22 +0100 1739309 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1739310&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FJteYFk26iZo%2F Compounds Have Potential For Diagnosis, Treatment Of Alzheimer’s Disease - “New research suggests that a select group of compounds that interact with a protein in the brain might be used in the early diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia disorders…” (more) Polyphenols protect nerves from damage but not in Alzheimer’s - “Plant nutrients called polyphenols are known to protect nerves from damage, but to expect a similar effect in case of Alzheimer’s would be ‘unwise,’ warns Indian-Canadian researcher Charles Ramassamy…” (more) MIT zeroes in on Alzheimer’s structures - “MIT engineers report a new approach to identifying protein structures key to Alzheimer’s disease, an important s... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1739310 Thu, 28 Aug 2008 09:54:10 +0100 1739310 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1739311&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FMv6diN_4k9s%2F A book due to be published next month by Margaret Thatcher’s daughter Carol confirms that Britain’s “Iron Lady” is suffering from dementia. This is the family’s first public confirmation of what has been widely rumored in Britain for several years. Parts of the book ‘A Swim-On Part in the Goldfish Bowl: A Memoir’, have been serialized by the Mail Online. Here’s the first installment - Carol Thatcher: I always thought of Mum as being 100% cast-iron damage-proof - with more to follow. (source) Tags: Alzheimers-disease, margaret thatcherShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1739311 Wed, 27 Aug 2008 09:00:29 +0100 1739311 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1729518&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FWYsB6Hi2iOU%2F There’s another interesting interview with Terry Pratchett by BBC News. Plus…. Author Attacks Alzheimer’s Ban Terry Pratchett launches attack on NHS Alzheimer’s Society Comment On Panorama Terry Pratchett’s anger over the life-changing Alzheimer’s drug not available on the NHS Tags: Alzheimers-disease, terry pratchettShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1729518 Sat, 23 Aug 2008 23:16:56 +0100 1729518 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1723539&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2Fccwy1STedHQ%2F Cocoa Flavanols Linked To Improved Brain Blood Flow - “Cocoa flavanols, the unique compounds found naturally in cocoa, may increase blood flow to the brain, according to new research published in the Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment journal…” (more) Language, Culture Barriers Affect Early Alzheimer’s Diagnosis Among Hispanics - “Language and cultural barriers cause a significant number of elderly Hispanics with Alzheimer’s disease to remain undiagnosed and untreated, experts say, the Newark Star-Ledger reports…” (more) Study Links Statins To Dementia Prevention - “The study followed more than 1,600 people over the age of 60 for five years. Those who were taking a cholesterol-lowering statin such as Lipitor, had a surprising result... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1723539 Thu, 21 Aug 2008 22:57:09 +0100 1723539 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1717279&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FR9LU1beqmsA%2F Ivanhoe News video about Boosting Your Brain Power… Tags: Alzheimer's Videos, Alzheimers-disease, brain power, keeping fit, videosShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1717279 Wed, 20 Aug 2008 03:39:47 +0100 1717279 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1709352&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FUmpmuI7Fi68%2F AlzheimersNotes.com So often we don’t know where to turn when Alzheimer’s becomes a reality with a family member.  We’ve heard of the condition, but haven’t paid too much attention until it hits a family member or friend and we’re caught in the caregiver role or supporting a caregiver. More resources are available nowadays than when my mom and aunt developed Alzheimer’s.  I wanted to learn all I could to better understand what they were going through, to help them,  and to cope myself because I ended up the main caregiver for both.  Today, one of the resources you have available is The Alzheimer’s Action Plan by P. Murali Doraiswamy and Lisa P. Gwyther with Tina Adler. Sub titled as “The Experts’ Guide to the Best Diagnosis and Tr... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1709352 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 05:00:25 +0100 1709352 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1709355&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F-v4uvBMhIlY%2F Yes, it’s that time again. The ‘All About Alzheimer’s’ Carnival is due to roll into town next week, with launch date being the 20th of August. So send on in all your submissions and don’t forget to mark your calender as ‘carnival day.’ Tags: All About Alzheimer's Carnival, Alzheimers-disease, blog carnivalsShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1709355 Fri, 15 Aug 2008 08:06:49 +0100 1709355 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1704816&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F7zpmBhZaF7g%2F There’s an interesting article in the Irish Times that looks at fact that ‘reading lists for medical students on ageing are largely composed of novels.’ Written by Desmond O’Neill, director of Aois agus Eolas, the Centre for Ageing, Neuroscience and the Humanities, the article highlights some of the novels on medical students reading list… The Human Stain by Philip Roth The Summer of a Dormouse by John Mortimer A Short History of Tractors in the Ukraine by Maria Lewinska Embers by Marai Sandor Animal Dreams by Barbara Kingsolver The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks The Bonesetter’s Daughter by Amy Tan The Corrections by Jonathan Frantzen Barney’s Version by Mordecai Richler It’s definitely a list worth reading… Tags: Alzheimers-disease, no... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1704816 Thu, 14 Aug 2008 08:48:35 +0100 1704816 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1700839&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2Fbmyp2WB2IBM%2F The Alzheimer’s Disease Center at UCLA’s Department of Neurology has been been renamed Mary S. Easton Center for Alzheimer’s Disease Research following a $10 donation by Jim Easton, a a UCLA alumnus and longtime benefactor of the university. Jim’s mother, Mary, died from Alzheimer’s disease. The generous donation will allow support research in the following areas… Investigation of the molecular structure of the toxic protein that accumulates in the brain in Alzheimer’s disease. Studies of the molecular interactions that make the protein involved in Alzheimer’s toxic. Characterization of and intervention for Alzheimer’s in genetically engineered mouse models. Studies involving familial Alzheimer’s patients. Genetic studies and ser... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1700839 Wed, 13 Aug 2008 08:47:04 +0100 1700839 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1701779&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F363198200%2F Good article in the Washington Post today:  Is It Really Smart to Teach Old Brains New Tricks? The reporter presents a good overview of what is happening, but framed around a highly artificial choice for consumers: either you a) do physical exercise, or b) take part in social interactions, or c) engage in mental exercise. What about switching off those TVs and having time for all a, b, c, and more? Research does not support a "general solution" to cognitive health but a multi-pronged one, featuring a good nutrition, stress management, and both physical and mental exercise. Each individual presents different contexts and priorities: for example, while research has shown how doing zero weekly aerobic exercise can translate into lower cognitive functioning, it does not support t... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1701779 Tue, 12 Aug 2008 19:56:34 +0100 1701779 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1696326&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FM57qupSPQ8c%2F Signs of Alzheimer’s disease may be present decades before diagnosis - “A team of U.S. scientists report on Monday that people who develop Alzheimer’s disease may show signs of the neurodegenerative illness many decades earlier in life, including compromised educational achievement…” (more) Physical frailty linked to dementia pathology - “Physical weakness or “frailty” among elderly people can be an early indicator of the presence of abnormal brain plaque and tangles characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease, even before the onset of memory problems, a new study hints…” (more) PET Scans Spot Early Alzheimer’s - “A special type of positron emission tomography (PET) scan appears to detect abnormal brain proteins associ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1696326 Tue, 12 Aug 2008 04:37:22 +0100 1696326 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1693756&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F4HzC4D1lmGw%2F Here’s a two part video presented by The Better Part, a program by and for seniors. Tags: Alzheimer's patients, Alzheimer's Research, Alzheimer's Videos, Alzheimers-disease, caregiversShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1693756 Sun, 10 Aug 2008 01:01:36 +0100 1693756 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1692243&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FGEttSAmcAVc%2F UCI Professor of Clinical Family Medicine Dr. Laura Mosqueda talks about Alzheimer’s disease at a lecture hosted at California State University Long Beach. Tags: Alzheimer's Research, alzheimer's studies, alzheimer's video, Alzheimers-disease, videoShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1692243 Sat, 09 Aug 2008 02:01:19 +0100 1692243 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1689104&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2Fr_2VEa-1wYw%2F Can Alzheimer’s drug halt progress? - “A new drug can slow Alzheimer’s disease progression by up to 80 per cent, according to reports…” (more) Tracking bracelets protect Alzheimer’s patients - “Westchester County will begin offering radio tracking bracelets to Alzheimer’s patients who tend to wander- a technology, officials say, that might have found a missing 93-year-old Scarsdale man much sooner…” (more) Thyroid Hormone levels Linked to Alzheimer’s Disease in Older Women Alzheimer’s-related gene linked to reduced connectivity in brain - “In the first results, presented this week in Chicago at the International Conference on Alzheimer’s Disease, troublesome changes in the brain that could be the earliest signs of... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1689104 Fri, 08 Aug 2008 00:54:32 +0100 1689104 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1679486&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FKY_4VFh5z7A%2F I wrote in June about the silver alert system for people with Alzheimer’s Disease. Here’s what Congressman Tom Latham, one of the original co-sponsor of legislation known as the Silver Alert Grant Program Act. Congressman Latham is no stranger to the effects of Alzheimer’s Disease as his own father suffered from it. I wrote in June about the silver alert system for people with Alzheimer’s Disease. Here’s what Congressman Tom Latham, one of the original co-sponsor of legislation known as the Silver Alert Grant Program Act. Congressman Latham is no stranger to the effects of Alzheimer’s Disease as his own father suffered from it. I wrote in June about the silver alert system for people with Alzheimer’s Disease. Here’s what Congressman Tom Latha... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1679486 Tue, 05 Aug 2008 05:39:56 +0100 1679486 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1677265&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F9c3rqt7D55k%2F Lon Blais is planning a cross-country bike tour to honor his father Bob who had Alzheimer’s Disease and to raise awareness and money for Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. His tour kicks off on August 31st 2008 and you can read all about it on his live online journal. Tags: Alzheimer's Association, alzheimer's fundraising, Alzheimers-diseaseShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1677265 Mon, 04 Aug 2008 05:30:25 +0100 1677265 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1672161&cid=t_108786_107_f&fid=36585&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FHighlightHEALTH%2F%7E3%2F351674497%2F This article was published on Highlight HEALTH. Other Articles You May LikeIncreased Coffee Consumption Associated with Lower Risk of Liver CancerDid You Eat Your Fruits and Vegetables Today?More Education Decreases the Risk of Death Remembering Lunch Can Help Reduce the Desire to SnackTired? You May Not Be Getting Enough Sleep (Source: Highlight HEALTH) Highlight HEALTH blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1672161 Fri, 01 Aug 2008 04:19:42 +0100 1672161 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1677268&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FGSYpQltNrPc%2F Leeza Gibbon’s narrates this video about her mother’s journey into Alzheimer’s Disease and the creation of Leeza’s Place, an oasis for caregivers and loved ones dealing with Alzheimer’s Disease… Tags: Alzheimers-disease, Caregiving, Leeza's Place, Memories, the Leeza Gibbons Memory foundationShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1677268 Fri, 01 Aug 2008 01:51:46 +0100 1677268 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1668547&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F350526828%2F AlzheimersNotes.com I’m offering a copy of A Glass Full of Tears, Dementia Day-By-Day by June Lund Shiplett as a giveaway here at Alzheimer’s Notes as part of the Bloggy Giveaways Carnival. In this book, June Lund Shiplett shares the journal she kept during her husband Charlie’s encounter with multi-infarct dementia and the challenges she faced as his caregiver.  This is a particularly good book for a spouse caregiver since so many books are written from the child caregiver point of view, as mine was. June Lund Shiplett is the author of numerous romance novels and is known to many readers of this genre.  Sometimes we don’t realize our favorite authors often face the same or similar challenges that we do. Guidelines for the giveaway - Leave a comment below. Sh... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1668547 Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:13:17 +0100 1668547 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1664387&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F349321858%2F The International Conference on Alzheimer’s Disease started on July 26th and will be running until 31 July in Chicago. This annual conference brings together more than 5,000 world-renowned researchers to discuss new knowledge, research, and findings about dementia. Here’s some of the breaking news that has come out of the conference so far… Controversy About Lack of Placebo Group Decline in Alzheimer’s Clinical Trials - “Lack of measureable decline in memory and thinking processes among placebo groups in Alzheimer’s disease clinical trials might reduce the ability to show the effectiveness of new Alzheimer therapies, according to new research reported today…” (more) Respectful Adult Communication Improves Quality of Care in Alzheimer’s ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1664387 Tue, 29 Jul 2008 10:42:36 +0100 1664387 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1658192&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F348164860%2F The BBC World News America has put together a series of films that spotlights Alzheimer’s around the world. Alzheimer’s: A Global Health Emergency airs in four parts on BBC World News America next week from Monday, July 28 to Thursday July, 31. The nightly newscast airs weeknights at 7:00 p.m. ET/PT on BBC AMERICA and BBC World News cable channels. Part One: Alzheimer’s: What Do We Know? (Airs Monday, July 28 at 7:00 p.m. ET/PT) Part Two: Early Onset Alzheimer’s: Profile of a Young Sufferer (Airs Tuesday, July 29 at 7:00 p.m. ET/PT) Part Three: The Gene Hunters (Airs Wednesday, July 30 at 7:00 p.m. ET/PT) Part Four: Alzheimer’s in South Korea (Airs Thursday, July 31 at 7:00 p.m. ET/PT) Tags: Alzheimer's Documentary, Alzheimer's: A Global Emergency, Alzheimers-... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1658192 Mon, 28 Jul 2008 07:42:34 +0100 1658192 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1658193&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F348003816%2F Study: Exercise Slows Alzheimer’s-Related Brain Deterioration -”Patients with early Alzheimer’s disease who exercised regularly saw less deterioration in the areas of the brain which control memory, according to a study released Sunday at the 2008 International Conference on Alzheimer’s Disease in Chicago…” (more) Vaccine Removes Brain Plaques But Does Not Prevent Dementia - “According to a study published in The Lancet, immunization against the amyloid-β peptide clears amyloid plaques in the brain but fails to halt the progressive neurodegeneration that comes with Alzheimer’s disease…” (more) Tags: alzheimer's news, Alzheimer's Research, Alzheimers-diseaseShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1658193 Mon, 28 Jul 2008 03:50:20 +0100 1658193 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1640330&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F341114964%2F Welcome to the July 20, 2008 edition of  ‘All about Alzheimer’s’ carnival. Shaheen Lakhan from Brain Blogger writes about Using Infrared Light to Diagnosis Alzheimer’s, saying, “A definitive diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease requires microscopic examination of brain tissue, which is something that cannot be performed safely in a living patient. However, near-infrared optical spectroscopy may be the answer to successfully diagnosing a sick patient.” Alvaro Fernandez SharpBrains: Your Window into the Brain Fitness Revolution from looks at Computerized Cognitive Assessments: opportunities and concerns, saying, “You know your weight. And your physical fitness. And a variety of health-related metrics. But what about your brain fitness?” Mary ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1640330 Mon, 21 Jul 2008 02:14:59 +0100 1640330 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1639291&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F340322914%2F Alzheimer’s Research Brings Progress, Setbacks - “In one of two studies in the July 19 issue of The Lancet, an older drug called dimebon significantly improved Alzheimer’s symptoms. But in a second report, a once-promising vaccine failed to prevent the progression of Alzheimer’s — even though it cleared dementia-linked amyloid plaques in the brain…” (more Russian antihistamine drug does well in Alzheimer’s test - “A nearly forgotten Russian-made drug, formulated to combat hay fever, helps improve cognitive abilities in patients with Alzheimer’s disease, according to the results of a year-long trial published on Thursday…” (more) Exercise may slow Alzheimer’s brain shrinkage - “Getting a lot of exercise may ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1639291 Sun, 20 Jul 2008 02:34:58 +0100 1639291 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1631216&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F337186601%2F Time to start sending in submissions for the July ‘All About Alzheimer’s’ Carnival. Here’s all the rules and regulations… - only one submission per blog thanks. - needs to be in by the 19th of July. - post can be on anything and everything related to Alzheimer’s Disease. You can send your submissions using our carnival submission form. See you at the carnival… Tags: All About Alzheimer's Carnival, Alzheimer's blogs, Alzheimers-disease, blog carnivalShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1631216 Wed, 16 Jul 2008 15:56:52 +0100 1631216 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1618108&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F334866458%2F The Scripps Research Institute scientists have discovered that tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, the active ingredient in marijuana inhibits the formation of amyloid plaque, a primary pathological marker for Alzheimer’s disease. The study, using both computer modeling and biochemical assays, found that THC inhibits the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE). AChe works as a “molecular chaperone” and speeds up the creation of amyloid plaque in the brains of Alzheimer victims. As THC seems to be a strong inhibitor of these plaques, it could well be that it could provide therapeutic treatment for the symptoms and progression of Alzheimer’s disease. While Scripps Research scientists are quick to state that they are not advocating the use of marijuana, they do say that “&... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1618108 Mon, 14 Jul 2008 07:08:17 +0100 1618108 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1618109&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F334547912%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Have you considered a home business so you can afford to stay home to care for your Alzheimer’s family member?  Perhaps you already have one.  Are you knowledgeable about home business taxes? Jean Murray, at Small Business Boomers, has a great post with information and resources concerning what the IRS (Internal Revenue Service in the US) considers a true business. You might like to check out her, Boomers Retiring to “Fun” Businesses: Is birdwatching a business? She mentions some of the criteria the IRS uses to determine whether you’re entitled to deduct your losses from the business you’re operating or starting up. (Amazon image)  (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, alzheimers-caregivers, Alzheimers-disease, ca... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1618109 Sun, 13 Jul 2008 21:52:58 +0100 1618109 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1616214&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F332784719%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Christmas in July has become a popular event, whether you’re doing crafts, desiring an outing to a holiday shop (they’ve become very popular and often carry many other craft items), or simply want to start preparing early so your life doesn’t become too frantic in December with balancing caregiving responsibilities with family activities. At my Quilting and Patchwork blog, I’ve been participating in a Christmas in July series with other bloggers, posting something about the holiday season every few days.  Here are some of the posts if you’d like to check them out for ideas and information. 13 Holiday Recipes for Quilters to Enjoy 7 Quilted Christmas Gift Projects for Youngsters Quilters, What Colors for Christmas? 5 Christmas in July Ideas... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1616214 Fri, 11 Jul 2008 15:49:28 +0100 1616214 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1596545&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F330603094%2F Laser Could Detect Alzheimer’s Early - “a new laser that harmlessly penetrates deep into the live brain could help diagnose Alzheimer’s before its most tragic effects are apparent…” (more) Study points to cocktail therapy for Alzheimer’s - “A dietary cocktail that includes a type of omega-3 fatty acid can improve memory and learning in gerbils, according to the latest study from MIT researchers that points to a possible beverage-based treatment for Alzheimer’s and other brain diseases…” (more) Soy products may raise dementia risk: study - “Consumption of soy products like tofu may raise the risk of dementia, according to a new study from Britain and Indonesia…” (more) Tags: alzheimer's news, Alzheimer's Research,... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1596545 Wed, 09 Jul 2008 08:53:00 +0100 1596545 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1582993&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F328378325%2F Flora TV has interesting talk by Emma Shulman, a 95-year-old lecturer and Senior Family Counselor at NYU’s Silberstein Institute. Tags: Alzheimers-disease, emma shulman, memory, old age, Silberstein InstituteShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1582993 Sun, 06 Jul 2008 22:58:11 +0100 1582993 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1582067&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F327663361%2F ‘Good’ cholesterol dementia risk - “Too little of one type of cholesterol has been linked by research to memory loss and Alzheimer’s disease…” (more) Drug for Alzheimer’s fails in late-stage trial - “A drug developed by Myriad Genetics to treat Alzheimer’s disease failed in a closely watched late-stage clinical trial, dealing another blow to efforts to combat the illness…” (more) Facebook Concepts Indicate Brains Of Alzheimer’s Patients Aren’t As Networked, Stanford Study Shows - “This is your brain on Facebook. Researchers at the Stanford University School of Medicine used concepts borrowed from the popular social networking site to analyze the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease. They found th... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1582067 Sat, 05 Jul 2008 22:56:24 +0100 1582067 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1577373&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F327150987%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  Obtaining information about Alzheimer’s aided me in understanding Mother and Auntie and hopefully being a better caregiver.  I tried to learn what they were feeling and what to expect with their actions. Since that time (the decade of the 1990’s) more research has been done and more books written.  We still don’t have all the answers.  However, there are many out there that will aid you. Here are just a few: A Glass Full of Tears, Dementia Day-By-Day by June Lund Shiplett (June’s account of caring for her spouse) The 36-Hour Day by Nancy L. Mace & Peter V. Rabins (a standby) The Alzheimer’s Action Plan by P. Muraldi Doraiswamy & Lisa P. Gwyther with Tina Adler (I shall be reviewing this book soon.) Mothering Mother, A Daughter&... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1577373 Sat, 05 Jul 2008 05:00:47 +0100 1577373 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1577374&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F327050009%2F To accelerate research on Alzheimer’s disease internationally - The FRSQ, Inserm and CIHR sign a France-Quebec-Canada partnership agreement on research on Alzheimer’s disease - “The health research funding organizations of Quebec (the Fonds de la recherche en sant? du Qu?bec, FRSQ), France (the Institut national de la sant? et de la recherche m?dicale, Inserm) and Canada (the Canadian Institutes of Health Research’s Institute of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Addiction, and Institute of Aging) today signed a co-operation agreement on Alzheimer’s disease research…” (more) Antipsychotics Bring Little Long-Term Benefit in Alzheimer’s - “When an Alzheimer’s patient becomes suspicious of family and hostile or violent, medication may ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1577374 Sat, 05 Jul 2008 01:24:55 +0100 1577374 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1577375&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F326810710%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  In the United States, we’re celebrating Fourth of July, or Independence Day. There are parades, fireworks, community activities, and for many a weekend off from work.  You may be somewhat confined at home, if you’re caring for an Alzheimer’s patient.  Or you may be visiting your family member at a nursing home and joining in festivities there. When I was growing up, we couldn’t take a day off from the dairy farm work. However, we usually visited relatives for a holiday meal, a family reunion type of gathering, then returned home for the evening chores. Then as dusk descended, we watched fireworks from the “Big Hill,” a hay field on a hill top from which we could see for miles. Bursts of fireworks were visible in the darkening sky.... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1577375 Fri, 04 Jul 2008 18:00:40 +0100 1577375 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1575526&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F326445633%2F Two teens, Erin Mross and Claire Makinen, used turning 16 as a means of raising money for the local Alzheimer’s Association. Both girls have grandmothers suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease. Keen to do something to help, they organized a combined slumber party to celebrate their birthdays and asked all their guests to bring a donation rather than a gift. What a great way to celebrate a birthday…. read more here… Tags: Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimers-disease, Fundraising, teens and alzheimer's diseaseShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1575526 Fri, 04 Jul 2008 07:19:54 +0100 1575526 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1575527&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F326219506%2F Last year, Alzheimer’s Notes wrote about ‘Cruises for Alzheimer’s Caregivers’. Sounds like a great way to get away, so here’s update on cruises for 2009… February 9-14, 2009 Caribbean Cruise on Celebrity Century Miami to Miami September 4-11, 2009 Alaskan Royal Caribbean Rhapsody of the Seas Seattle to Seattle The cruises for 2010 are not yet scheduled but will be during same months as 2009: February and September. You can find out more at www.CAREGIVERCRUISES.com Tags: Alzheimers-disease, caregiver cruises, caregivers, cruises, respite for caregiversShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1575527 Fri, 04 Jul 2008 00:12:51 +0100 1575527 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1554505&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F322893758%2F Low Childhood IQ Linked to Type of Dementia - ” Children with lower IQs are more likely decades later to develop vascular dementia than children with high IQs, according to research published in the June 25, 2008, online issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology…” (more) Alzheimer’s Drug Shows Early Promise - “Long-anticipated results from a trial on an experimental Alzheimer’s therapy look promising, at least in a certain group of patients…” (more) New genetic risk factor seen in Alzheimer’s - “An international team of researchers said on Friday they had uncovered another link between faulty genes and the commonest form of Alzheimer’s disease…” (more) Tags: alzheimer's drugs,... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1554505 Mon, 30 Jun 2008 01:29:12 +0100 1554505 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1551511&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F321142938%2F Second Genetic Risk Factor For Late-onset Alzheimer’s Disease Found - ” Researchers have discovered the second, strong genetic risk factor for developing late-onset Alzheimer’s disease, according to a new report in the June 27th issue of the journal Cell, a Cell Press publication…” (more) Gene Variant May Contribute to Alzheimer’s Disease - “Researchers say they’ve discovered a gene that may make it easier for people to develop Alzheimer’s disease, and it could become a target for drug treatments…” (more) Alzheimer’s disease as a case of brake failure? - “Rutgers researcher Karl Herrup and colleagues at Case Western Reserve University have discovered that a protein that suppresses cell division in brain cells eff... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1551511 Fri, 27 Jun 2008 07:36:17 +0100 1551511 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1546779&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F320699648%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  Our first random drawing at Alzheimer’s Notes offers as the prize, Finding the Joy In Alzheimer’s, a book edited by Brenda Avadian and containing two of my essays. These include: A Child Shows the Way and Generation to Generation. Simply leave a comment with your name and e-mail and state how you’re connected with Alzheimer’s…caregiver, family member, victim, friend, concerned citizen, nursing home staff, etc.  You’re welcome to share  your stories, too. The contest will end Monday, July 7, 2008 at 11:59 PM (EDST) Only residents of the United States or those with a U.S. mailing address are eligible. (Amazon image; click on cover for details) (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: Alzheimer's Awareness, Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, Alz... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1546779 Thu, 26 Jun 2008 18:00:22 +0100 1546779 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1546780&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F320350991%2F Second Wind Dreams, a national non-profit organization with a mission to change the perception of aging, one dream at a time, has a Virtual Dementia tour kit. It’s a training tool that provides people with the opportunity to experience how it might feel to have dementia. Sounds like something everyone who works with dementia patients should experience… Tags: Alzheimers-disease, caregivers, Caregiving, dementia, hospitals, rest homesShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1546780 Thu, 26 Jun 2008 08:20:55 +0100 1546780 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1543508&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F319768126%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  Ever wish you could take a nap during the day, when lack of sleep overwhelms you? Yet you feel guilty if you do.  Or your Alzheimer’s patient doesn’t remain napping if you try to catch forty winks at the same time? Today, if someone else watches your patient or they nap, too,  you also can take a “power nap” with a clear conscience, according to Yvonne Russell’s post at Home Biz Notes, Happy National Siesta Day. There she lists the benefits of a 10-120 minute nap. So Happy Napping!! Maybe you’ll find it so beneficial you’ll squeeze in power naps other days as well. (Amazon image; click image for details) (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, Alzheimers-disease, caregiver health, caregivers, Caregivi... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1543508 Wed, 25 Jun 2008 15:00:58 +0100 1543508 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1543509&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F319546615%2F The scientists at The University of California, San Francisco have teamed up with YouTube in order to create UCSF Aging & Memory Center, a place to medical research. According to the Press Release… “The channel is intended to increase awareness among patients, their families — and physicians — about the various forms of dementia, with the goal of promoting earlier diagnoses and getting more patients into research studies and clinical trials. The site is also intended to educate caregivers, and provide support through caregiver testimonials.” Tags: Alzheimer's Research, Alzheimers-disease, UCSF, you tubeShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1543509 Wed, 25 Jun 2008 08:46:38 +0100 1543509 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1543510&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F319131156%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Many Alzheimer’s caregivers are caught in that “Gen Between” situation, with parents they’re responsible for as well as children.  Elizabeth at b5media’s Gen Between blog relates her own and other’s experiences. Gen Between’s parents may or may not have some form of dementia.  However, their independence is waning, and the need for care by their children increasing.  Then there are children of various ages living in the household of the Gen Betweens. So when you need inspiration and encouragment, check out what Elizabeth has to share at her Gen Between blog. (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: , Alzheimer's Notes, alzheimers-caregivers, alzheimers-caregiving, Alzheimers-disease, dementia, Emma, Gen Between, generation between, Mary... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1543510 Tue, 24 Jun 2008 20:00:19 +0100 1543510 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1543511&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F318615804%2F New drug may mitigate Alzheimer’s disease - “A U.S. scientist says he and his German colleagues have created an experimental medicine that might mitigate the effects of Alzheimer’s disease…” (more) Scientists Isolate a Toxic Key to Alzheimer’s Disease - “Scientists have long questioned whether the abundant amounts of amyloid plaques found in the brains of patients with Alzheimer’s actually caused the neurological disease or were a by-product of its progress. Now, using new research techniques, scientists have shown that a two-molecule aggregate (or dimer) of beta-amyloid protein fragments may play a role in initiating the disease…” (more) Researchers Study an Alzheimer’s Disease Vaccination - “Saint Louis University researcher... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1543511 Tue, 24 Jun 2008 04:46:32 +0100 1543511 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1538096&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F318259557%2F AlzheimersNotes.com The big question mark looms  instead of my photo on social media sites. So my granddaughter is helping me correct that. As she showed me the pictures she’d taken of her quilts, I thought, “That’s it! I’ll have a quilt photo instead of the question mark. This is characteristic of me because I love quilts and quilt history. I write a quilting blog, Quilting and Patchwork” We selected the picture of a quilt she made as a school project for American Studies, a quilt based upon Civil War designs and history. We only have it at one location so far, but I may use it at others. Why am I relating this at Alzheimer’s Notes? Perhaps you don’t have a photo of yourself. Perhaps you don’t want a photo of youself posted everywhere. Per... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1538096 Mon, 23 Jun 2008 17:47:42 +0100 1538096 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1538097&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F317784960%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  Stay tuned…I’ll be anouncing a random drawing for the book, Finding the Joy in Alzheimer’s edited by Brenda Avadian.  This anthology contains essays by caregivers and family members who have experienced the disappointments and frustrations, but still could find moments of JOY to share with others. Some of my essays appear in this book. I shall be posting details about entering this drawing. (Amazon image; click on cover for more details about the book.) (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: Alzheimer's book, Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, Alzheimers-disease, Brenda Avadian, caregivers, Caregiving, Emma, Finding the Joy in Alzheimer's, health, Mary Allen, Mary Emma, Mary Emma Allen, men's health, women's healthShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1538097 Mon, 23 Jun 2008 02:45:53 +0100 1538097 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1535846&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F316578090%2F Welcome to the June edition of ‘All about Alzheimer’s’ carnival. NAOMI presents CRUNCH TIME FOR ALZHEIMER’S SUFFERERS posted at Diary From England. Paul Li presents Protect your brain with daily caffeine posted at Lumosity Brain Health, saying, “Drinking a cup of coffee every day can help thwart off Alzheimer’s.” Mary Emma Allen presents Balancing Alzheimer’s Caregiving & Your Job posted at Alzheimer’s Notes, saying, “One of the challenges for many caregivers is balancing their job outside the home with caring for an Alzheimer’s parent or spouse. Mary Emma Allen, at Alzheimer’s Notes, provides resources that may help you.” Well, that’s it for this edition of the ‘All About Alzheimer&... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1535846 Sat, 21 Jun 2008 00:48:18 +0100 1535846 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1531080&cid=t_108786_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F06%2F20%2Ftransforming-the-quality-of-dementia-care-consultation-on-a-national-dementia-strategy%2F Consultation document from the Department of Health which is developing a national strategy for dementia services. This consultation draws on evidence from a wide range of reports and stakeholders, a series of listening events involving over 3,000 people and the recommendations of an External Reference Group. It invites everyone to give their views on the ideas set out in the document, as well as contribute new ideas to the debate. (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1531080 Fri, 20 Jun 2008 12:26:33 +0100 1531080 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1531432&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F314917796%2F Protein Linked To Alzheimer’s Disease Also Has Role In HIV Progression - “A protein related to heart disease and Alzheimer’s is found to be a factor in HIV. The apolipoprotein (apo) E4 isoform has been implicated in neurodegeneration in Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular disease, and stroke…” (more) New study dismisses ginkgo biloba as Alzheimer’s treatment - “A study carried out by Imperial College London, has found that ginkgo biloba, which is marketed as an aid to memory, has no significant impact on mental function or quality of life…” (more) Hope Mixes With Doubt For Alzheimer’s - “A promising new treatment for Alzheimer’s disease helped some patients but may have harmed others, according to a preliminary s... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1531432 Wed, 18 Jun 2008 21:31:56 +0100 1531432 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1527495&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F313900458%2F Here you are have the twice-a-month newsletter with our 10 most popular blog posts. Please remember that you can subscribe to receive this Newsletter by email, simply by submitting your email at the top of this page. Our first Brain Training/ Fitness Webinar Series was a success with several hundred participants and great feedback. If you could not participate, you can still review the presentation slides by clicking Here. A key message from the series: it is exciting that our brains remain more flexible, at all ages, than was once thought possible. The implications? Every single owner of a brain can benefit from learning more about how to maintain the "It" in "Use It or Lose It." And which tools, if any, can be helpful. But, remember, there are no magic p... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1527495 Wed, 18 Jun 2008 13:39:39 +0100 1527495 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1526409&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F314068812%2F Interesting video about the rational and training of the Okada Alzheimer’s Assistance Dogs… Okada has been training dogs since 1986 to help the disabled to participate as active members of society. Tags: alzheimer's guide dogs, Alzheimers-disease, guide dogsShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1526409 Tue, 17 Jun 2008 20:42:27 +0100 1526409 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1522307&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F312985856%2F Hard to believe but it’s time again for another ‘All About Alzheimer’s’ carnival. So send on in your submissions in the next couple of days and we will have the carnival up for your reading pleasure on the 20th of June. Here’s all the rules and regulations… - only one submission per blog thanks. - needs to be in by the 19th of June. - post can be on anything and everything related to Alzheimer’s Disease. You can send your submissions using our carnival submission form. See you at the carnival… Tags: all about alzheimer's, Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers-disease, blog carnivalShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1522307 Mon, 16 Jun 2008 12:12:29 +0100 1522307 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1522310&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F312197800%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  Throughout the week, the Health and Wellness Channel has been focusing on Celebrities and Health.  Some are Hollywood celebrities; others come from other walks of life.  By going public with their illness, they often make the world more aware and more willing to talk about a health situation that families keep”hidden in the closet.” You, the caregiver,  and your Alzheimer’s patient also are celebrities and heroes in this challenge with a devastating disease. Liz and I have written a number of posts on this topic this week.  In case you’ve missed any and would like to check them out, here is a roundup: Celebrities Health This Week’s Theme at the Health & Wellness Channel, Alzheimer’s Notes Included Did Ronald Reagan Have Alz... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1522310 Sun, 15 Jun 2008 05:00:47 +0100 1522310 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1522311&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F312076704%2F AlzheimersNotes.com This week, Alzheimer’s Notes, along with the rest of the Health and Wellness Channel, has been focusing on celebrities and health…in our case, celebrities and Alzheimer’s.  Often their coming forth with announcements about their health problems gives awareness to everyone. However, YOU and YOUR ALZHEIMER’S PATIENT ARE CELEBRITIES, too.  You cry, you laugh, you suffer, you feel pain and joy.  You become frustrated.  You struggle with caregiving and facing the realization of this disease.  Yet you find rewards in the process, too. If you’re a caregiver at a nursing home, you’re to be celebrated for the care you give our family members.  If you’re a visiting nurse, a hospice nurse or volunteer, a researcher…you’... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1522311 Sun, 15 Jun 2008 00:00:46 +0100 1522311 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1518752&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F311908023%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  We continually find more celebrities speaking aout about Alzheimer’s because it affects family members, friends, characters they play, or themselves.  They realize the need for Alzheimer’s awareness and funding for research into this devastating disease. At the web site for the Alzheimer’s Association in the UK, we find many well-known people speaking out or up about this disease such as Dame  Judi Dench, AA Gill, Britt Ekland, Fiona Phillips, Tony Robinson, Richard Briers, Sally Lindsay and more.  There are celebrities of all ages and from various walks of life. We learn that they, like us, have had to adjust to a loved one experiencing this disease.  We band together in the common fight for a cause and cure. (Amazon image; click on it for deta... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1518752 Sat, 14 Jun 2008 17:00:02 +0100 1518752 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1522342&cid=t_108786_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F312412815%2F This week was celebrity week at the health and wellness channel, and while I did not have that much to offer up in the way of diabetic celebrities, my fellow bloggers did have a lot to share. Check out what Karen at Pink Ribbon Review and Liz and Mary Emma at Alzheimer’s Notes had to say.  Karen gave us a Celebrities survival list and Mary Emma offered a complete list of all Alzheimer’s related posts. Thanks ladies! Tags: alzheimers disease, b5media, breast cancer, celebrity week, diabetes, health and wellness channel, heart-diseaseShare This (Source: A Hearty Life) A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1522342 Sat, 14 Jun 2008 14:09:10 +0100 1522342 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1518753&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F311727614%2F It’s like an Amber alert but for Seniors and it’s working presently in eight states - Colorado, Texas, Illinois, Michigan, Kentucy, Virginia, North Carolina, and Georgia. When issued, it makes everyone aware that someone with Alzheimer’s Disease is missing and accelerates the process of engaging the community in the search and rescue of the vulnerable person. Immediate action includes using public broadcast systems, state transportation department automated road signs and a emergency call-line. Sounds like a program that should be in all 50 states… (source) Tags: Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimers-disease, missing persons, silver alert, wanderingShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1518753 Sat, 14 Jun 2008 09:39:27 +0100 1518753 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1516610&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F311304637%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  Arlene Francis was know for years as an actress on stage, television and in the movies.  She also was a game show panelist, radio interviewer, author, and television newsmagazine host.  However, many are unaware that she contracted Alzheimer’s disease and lived with this illness for the last years of her life. A little known legacy of this celebrity is her artwork while she had Alzheimer’s.  Through Artworks, Ms. Francis produced more than 40 paintings and collages. In October 1997, Arlene’s works were showcased in a private art show in San Fransico, California. The event was in celebration of her 90th birthday and a prelude to National Alzheimer’s Month, which is observed in November. In spite of the effects of Alzheimer’s Disease, ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1516610 Fri, 13 Jun 2008 18:00:51 +0100 1516610 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1516611&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F311032956%2F There’s an assumption that the longer we live, the more likely that we will develop Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. But according to a study led by Prof Gert Holstege of University Medical Centre Groningen, The Netherlands “… suggest that, in contrast to general belief, the limits of human cognitive function may extend far beyond the range that is currently enjoyed by most individuals, and that improvements in preventing brain disorders of aging may yield substantial long-term benefits.” Reporting in the August issue of Neurobiology of Aging, this conclusion was the direct result of studying the one of the world’s oldest brains - during her life time and then following her death at the age of 115. The results… “Examination ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1516611 Fri, 13 Jun 2008 09:28:36 +0100 1516611 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1512061&cid=t_108786_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F06%2F12%2Fsupporting-older-people-in-care-homes-at-night%2F This report examines the perspectives of residents, relatives, staff and care home inspectors. It identifies both good and poor practice, and recommends improvements through a series of interventions. Issues explored in depth include: the role of regulatory bodies in night-time care inspection; the role of managers in supervising and monitoring night-time care; causes of distress and sleep disturbance amongst residents; the need to reduce the number of checks that occurs throughout the night; the training of night staff in areas such as dementia awareness and the management of continence; guidance on appropriate noise and light levels; and strategies for developing more person-centred care at night. (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1512061 Thu, 12 Jun 2008 15:13:42 +0100 1512061 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1522382&cid=t_108786_134_f&fid=36049&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FDiabetesNotes%2F%7E3%2F312418208%2F This week was celebrity week at the health and wellness channel, and while I did not have that much to offer up in the way of diabetic celebrities, my fellow bloggers did have a lot to share. Check out what Karen at Pink Ribbon Review and Liz and Mary Emma at Alzheimer’s Notes had to say.  Karen gave us a Celebrities survival list and Mary Emma offered a complete list of all Alzheimer’s related posts. Thanks ladies! Tags: alzheimers disease, b5media, breast cancer, celebrity week, Diabetes, health and wellness channelShare This (Source: Diabetes Notes) Diabetes Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1522382 Thu, 12 Jun 2008 14:26:38 +0100 1522382 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1512259&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F310272392%2F Bill Aims To Increase Funding, Research For Hispanics With Alzheimer’s Disease - “Rep. Linda Sanchez (D-Calif.) has proposed a bill that aims to increase funding and resources for Hispanics with Alzheimer’s disease…” (more) Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation Invites Scientists To Apply For Grant Award Program - “The Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation (ADDF) invites scientists from the biotechnology industry and academia to apply for a research grant through the Novel Approaches to Drug Discovery for Alzheimer’s Disease award program…” (more) Alzheimer hormone linked to ‘forgetfulness’ during pregnancy - “Many women believe they become more forgetful when pregnant — a new study reveals they are r... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1512259 Thu, 12 Jun 2008 09:11:39 +0100 1512259 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1508668&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F309795138%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  Among the celebrities who have “gone public” with an announcement about developing Alzheimer’s is author Terry Prachett. Liz Lewis and I have written several posts about Terry in the ensuing months, the lastest of which is Liz’s Terry Prachett Fan Sets Up “Match It for Prachett” Alzheimer’s Fund Raising Site. Related Posts about Prachett’s public announcement and how he’s helping others handle this disease by his example: *Terry Prachett Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s *Terry Prachett Speaks Out About Alzheimer’s Funding in Britain *Video:  Terry Prachett on Alzheimer’s Disease *Terry Prachett Talks About Alzheimer’s Disease (Amazon image: click on cover for details) (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1508668 Wed, 11 Jun 2008 18:00:28 +0100 1508668 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1508670&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F308862682%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  This week we feature Hollywood celebrities and others who have suffered from Alzheimer’s disease.  They and their families have been gracious enough to make their illness public and encourage others who are experiencing this situation.  Then we know we’re not alone and are not so uncomfortable making our family member’s condition public and talking about it. Yesterday, we mentioned Ronald Reagan and his family at Alzheimer’s Notes.  When they went public with his condition, it couldn’t have been easy for them.  However, they have helped so many people, in an area that was unrelated to his presidency, governorship, and acting career.  They reached out to others.  Hopefully it brought the Reagans comfort.  I know it helped me as I d... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1508670 Tue, 10 Jun 2008 14:00:33 +0100 1508670 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1502687&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F308198447%2F Did Ronald Reagan have Alzheimer’s Disease while he was President? Dr Larry Altman, who was a Senior Medical columnist for the New York Times, once looked into this question and was… “…unable to find any evidence by any medical criteria that is known to the medical profession that Mr Regan had any symptoms or signs of Alzheimer’s when he was President.” He did discover, though, in an interview he did with Ronald Reagan in 1980, that “…his mother had been senile for a number of years before she died. The word ‘Alzheimer’s’ was not a household word at that time, and Mr Reagan interrupted the interview to ask me about that, and I explained the new knowledge of Alzheimer’s and senile plaques in the brain and the new findings that were going ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1502687 Mon, 09 Jun 2008 18:04:49 +0100 1502687 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1501538&cid=t_108786_122_f&fid=36582&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FSharpBrains%2F%7E3%2F307119481%2F I just read a very interesting article in Newsweek: Executive Functions: The School Skill That May Matter More Than IQ. A few quotes: - "But recent advances in psychology and brain science are now suggesting that a child's ability to inhibit distracting thoughts and stay focused may be a fundamental cognitive skill, one that plays a big part in academic success from preschool on. Indeed, this and closely related skills may be more important than traditional IQ in predicting a child's school performance." - "EF (executive functions) comprises not only effortful control and cognitive focus but also working memory and mental flexibility—the ability to adjust to change, to think outside the box." - "When the teacher holds up a circle they clap, with a triangle they ... SharpBrains blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1501538 Sun, 08 Jun 2008 02:38:20 +0100 1501538 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1500056&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F305892458%2F Please watch, at least until you get to where you find out what IT is. IT might look like a political video but it’s not really. IT is something that we all need to be aware of. IT can strick any of us, at any time. IT is growing. Can we stop IT ? Tags: Alzheimer's Research, alzheimer's statistics, Alzheimers-disease, confusionShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1500056 Fri, 06 Jun 2008 06:53:02 +0100 1500056 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1494442&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F304914973%2F AlzheimersNotes.com  Recently Liz Lewis wrote the post, Alzheimer’s or Overmedicated, which struck a chord with me.  Sometimes, in order to control or address difficult behaviors in older patients, medications are used that could give the appearance of Alzheimer’s.  This doesn’t necessarily mean it’s being done deliberately. Sometimes it could happen because of interaction between medications. However, if someone is taking medication and begins to show Alzheimer’s symptoms, check out what’s being perscribed. I didn’t have an overmedicated problem with my mom, who did develop Alzheimer’s.  However, medication was described by her doctor to control difficult behavior as she exhibited some of the more aggressive symptoms of the illness at... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1494442 Thu, 05 Jun 2008 00:35:12 +0100 1494442 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1492168&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F304077838%2F Early-stage Alzheimer’s patients push for research - “Don Hayen has a handy way of deflecting the instant pity that comes when he reveals his Alzheimer’s disease: “But I haven’t lost my keys all day,” he quickly jokes…” (more) New Strategy Against Alzheimer’s Disease Following Unexpected Results From Study - “Interrupting a signaling pathway in certain immune system cells in laboratory mice had the opposite effect researchers expected but opened the possibility of a new approach to treating Alzheimer’s disease, according to an article in the journal Nature Medicine…” (more) Green Tea Prevents Deathly Plaque Formation In Parkinson’s And Alzheimer’s - First Results In The Test Tube And With Cell Models ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1492168 Tue, 03 Jun 2008 23:07:14 +0100 1492168 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1488085&cid=t_108786_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F06%2F03%2Fsee-me-not-just-the-dementia-understanding-people%25e2%2580%2599s-experiences-of-living-in-a-care-home%2F (Executive Summary) from the Commission for Social Care Inspection details the results of the implementation of the Short Observational Framework for Inspection (SOFI) in the inspection of care homes.  Findings are: A significant finding from this study is the negative effect of neutral communication on the feelings of people with dementia. The findings are valuable as they are obtained from direct work with people with dementia. The findings support the importance of well-trained and supported staff working in homes committed to person-centred care, which may or may not be care homes that specialise in care for people with dementia. There are examples of excellent personalised care in this study but clearly this is not universal. CSCI issued 155 statutory requirements to 51 homes, ... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1488085 Tue, 03 Jun 2008 09:06:44 +0100 1488085 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1488380&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F302872269%2F Part of the ‘Coming of Age Lecture Series’ from UCTelevision… Tags: all about alzheimer's disease, Alzheimer's Research, Alzheimers-disease, bruce reed, UCTelevision, videosShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1488380 Mon, 02 Jun 2008 10:07:59 +0100 1488380 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1484971&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F302393232%2F Interesting article in CNN/Health about one family’s confusion over a parents illness. Seems that after finding their mother unsteady, confused, and with slurred speech, an Oklahoma family was informed by their local emergency department that their mother probably had Alzheimer’s or Pick’s Disease. Unhappy with the diagnosis and feeling something was not quite right, they got a second opinion from a specialized geriatrican who subsequently made a diagnosis of overmedication. Have a read of the article Is Grandma Drugged? to learn more about overmedication and drug complications in the elderly. Tags: alzheimer's and confusion, Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers-disease, drug interactions, drugsShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1484971 Sun, 01 Jun 2008 14:44:42 +0100 1484971 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1484972&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F302205495%2F Immune cells ‘vacuum up’ Alzheimer’s clumps - “Debris-gobbling immune cells can be enticed into the brain to eat away the amyloid plaques associated with Alzheimer’s disease, according to a study in mice…” (more) Cardiovascular Meds May Be Beneficial in Alzheimer’s Disease, According to MedPredict Report - “MedPredict has published a new report designed to provide critical strategic insight for pharma and biotech companies with a stake in the market for diagnostics and treatments in this disease area. The report, entitled “Thought Leader Insight & Analysis: Alzheimer’s Disease,” is based on in-depth interviews conducted with a panel of physician thought leaders actively involved in ongoing research…” (... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1484972 Sun, 01 Jun 2008 05:42:39 +0100 1484972 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1482107&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F302040767%2F Once the excitement of the first days of summer vacation from school are over, the caregivers who are mom and daughters/sons, often are bombarded with the comments, “I’m bored.  I don’t know what to do.”  Check out the post, Activities for Your Youngsters This Summer - Reading & Others, over at my new blog One Book Two Book.  There you’ll also find links to Karen’s post at our blog and Char’s at Weary Parent, with many, many ideas. Depending on the activity, you often can involve your Alzheimer’s patient in the games and crafts with the youngsters.  If they can’t participate, simply watching may entertain. What are your plans for summer activities to keep the various generations in your home busy? (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Ta... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1482107 Sat, 31 May 2008 21:30:25 +0100 1482107 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1478073&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F300617305%2F I discovered this over at The San Diego Traveler. QUASH is a scavenger hunt where getting from Point A to Point B is only half the challenge. Traveling by foot or public transport, you have two and a half hours to get complete the route, solving clues and completeing challenges along the way. Some challenges need brawn, others brain and all will require teamwork. Sure sounds like fun not to mention a great way to support the cause and raise money for the Alzheimer’s Association. Only catch is you have to be in Philadelphia (June 7th), San Diego (June 14th), or Indianapolis (June 21st), to participate. You can create your own team, join an existing team or register as an individual - we can match you up with a team. Jut select your city above to find out how to get started. If anyone ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1478073 Thu, 29 May 2008 15:32:42 +0100 1478073 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1475276&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F299681928%2F Keeping an eye on Alzheimer’s wanderers - “One minute, 82-year-old Robert Henline was headed to bed after a nighttime snack of a sandwich and ice cream. The next time his daughter and son-in-law checked on him in their Monroeville home, he was gone into the frigid January night without a goodbye…” (more) Researchers explore the emerging role of infection in Alzheimer’s disease - “The realization that pathogens can produce slowly progressive chronic diseases has opened new lines of research into Alzheimer’s disease. In a special issue of the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease published May 2008, guest editors Judith Miklossy, from the University of British Columbia, and Ralph N. Martins, from Edith Cowan University and Hollywood Private Hospital, ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1475276 Wed, 28 May 2008 08:19:50 +0100 1475276 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1472376&cid=t_108786_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F05%2F28%2Fpaying-the-price%2F : The cost of mental health care in England to 2026 is the latest report from the King’s Fund. It presents current and projected needs for mental health services and their related costs. It gives details on a number of specific disorders, including depression, schizophrenic disorders and dementia. The fundemental trhust of the report is that without the right level and type of investment we will all pay the price – not just in wasted resources but also in wasted lives. The report was heavily trailed in the media over the weekend and to read the reports you can check them out on Another 15 Minutes … Health News from Fade aka Fade the Blog under the title Dementia will strike down million people - The Observer 25th May 2008. Related stories can as usual be found in this post, t... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1472376 Wed, 28 May 2008 07:09:00 +0100 1472376 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1469834&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F298582237%2F Best selling author Terry Pratchett who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease last year talks to John Humpheries at BBC’s On othe Ropes program. Tags: Alzheimers-disease, early onset alzheimer's disease, interviews, podcast, terry pratchettShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1469834 Mon, 26 May 2008 19:47:38 +0100 1469834 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1467912&cid=t_108786_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F298226177%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Are there any caregivers or Alzheimer’s patients who are quilters?  I’m sponsoring a drawing over at my Quilting and Patchwork blog for a quilting booklet, Bonnie Leman’s How to Make a Quilt - 25 Easy Lessons for Beginners. Click on the title above for guidelines for the drawing. Also, if you are a quilter, you might like to let us know in the comments below.  Share with us your projects. Then other caregivers can find a common bond.  Quilting and fabric art can be very relaxing in times of stress.  Sharing with others encourages us in our projects. (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimer's patients, Alzheimers, Alzheimers-disease, caregivers, contest, contest guidelines, Mary Emma Allen, quilter, Quilting and Patchwork, Quilt... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1467912 Mon, 26 May 2008 08:00:26 +0100 1467912