MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'alzheimer's'. Sun, 21 Mar 2010 19:27:08 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3346433&cid=t_299694_87_f&fid=36224&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.wsjonline.com%2F%7Er%2Fwsj%2Fhealth%2Ffeed%2F%7E3%2FDUu0kvo5yTQ%2F African-Americans are twice as likely as Caucasians to have Alzheimer’s and related memory-robbing diseases, and Hispanics, the fastest-growing segment of the U.S. population, are 1.5 times as likely, according to a new report released this morning by the Alzheimer’s Association. The higher risk is likely linked to factors like high blood pressure and diabetes, which are risk factors for dementia and more common among those minority groups than among Caucasians. Yet, African-Americans and Hispanics are less likely to be diagnosed with the disease than their Caucasian counterparts. One barrier to diagnosis of dementia among these populations is access to proper health care, Maria Carrillo, a spokeswoman for the association, told the Health Blog. Language and culture, such as th... WSJ.com: Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3346433 Tue, 09 Mar 2010 16:51:15 +0100 3346433 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3331373&cid=t_299694_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FzkSCtSPo-8g%2F Finding a treatment or a cure for Alzheimer’s disease is keeping researchers busy across the world. Unfortunately, they aren’t having a lot of success and the latest hopeful entry has turned out to be a bust. Dimebon, a medication that was developed to help slow the progression of Alzheimers has failed in the latest round of testing of 598 patients with mild to moderate disease. The results shocked the researchers because an earlier, smaller 18-month study of the drug showed that there was improvement among the patients taking Dimebon. The companies that collaborated on the production, Pfizer and Medivation, haven’t given up completely on the drug. They are continuing with four more studies that combine Dimebon with other drugs, as well as one study that is investigating ... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3331373 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 17:00:54 +0100 3331373 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3335585&cid=t_299694_155_f&fid=38409&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneuropathologyblog.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Funusual-cadasil-case-or-something-else.html I recently did a brain autopsy on a 70-year-old woman who died from an intraparenchymal brain hemorrhage after a seven-year history of progressive dementia. The gross photograph (provided by Chad Jeffers, Memorial Medical Center, Springfield, IL)  follows:I know what you're thinking: an amyloid angiopathic bleed, or perhaps a hypertensive bleed, in a patient with Alzheimer disease. That's what I was thinking until I saw in the chart that abnormal white matter changes on MRI prompted the neurologist to order Notch3 genetic testing on the patient, which surprisingly came back positive for a mutation. The patient therefore carried a clinical diagnosis of Cerebral Autosomal Dominant Arteriopathy with Subcortical Infarcts and Leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL), despite the fact that she had no ... neuropathology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3335585 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 05:02:00 +0100 3335585 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3331628&cid=t_299694_155_f&fid=38409&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneuropathologyblog.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Funusual-cadasil-case-or-something-else.html I recently did a brain autopsy on a 70-year-old woman who died from an intraparenchymal brain hemorrhage after a seven-year history of progressive dementia. The gross photograph (provided by Chad Jeffers, Memorial Medical Center, Springfield, IL)  follows:I know what you're thinking: an amyloid angiopathic bleed, or perhaps a hypertensive bleed, in a patient with Alzheimer disease. That's what I was thinking until I saw in the chart that abnormal white matter changes on MRI prompted the neurologist to order Notch3 genetic testing on the patient, which surprisingly came back positive for a mutation. The patient therefore carried a clinical diagnosis of Cerebral Autosomal Dominant Arteriopathy with Subcortical Infarcts and Leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL), despite the fact that she had no ... neuropathology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3331628 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 05:02:00 +0100 3331628 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3331268&cid=t_299694_87_f&fid=36224&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.wsjonline.com%2F%7Er%2Fwsj%2Fhealth%2Ffeed%2F%7E3%2FXIxOi4YQ_f0%2F Bad news on the Alzheimer’s drug development front: Pfizer and Medivation announced negative results from a large late-stage trial of Dimebon, thought to be a promising treatment more potent than those currently on the market. Dimebon, you may remember, got its start a quarter-century ago as a Russian cold medicine that Pfizer plunked down $225 million for licensing rights in 2008. The deal also included potential milestone payments of as much as $500 million. The drug, considered to be the compound furthest along of those in development to treat Alzheimer’s, had shown impressive effects in a trial 183 Russian patients. But scientists in the field have questioned the small size of the study and the whether the findings could be applied to other populations since it was conducte... WSJ.com: Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3331268 Wed, 03 Mar 2010 18:42:27 +0100 3331268 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3216557&cid=t_299694_87_f&fid=36224&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.wsjonline.com%2F%7Er%2Fwsj%2Fhealth%2Ffeed%2F%7E3%2F_qXCXplcnOg%2F Pfizer gave its first pipeline update since it took over Wyeth in October. Bottom line: The company now has has about 500 products somewhere along the path between early-stage human trials and registration, down from about an initial 600 in the combined company’s pipeline. The company also announced it had dropped its bid to combine its Lyrica pain medication with other treatment for generalized anxiety disorder. Lyrica is already approved for fibromyalgia. Pfizer recently failed to win FDA approval to use Lyrica as a stand-alone treatment for generalized anxiety disorder. The drug maker is targeting six research areas for the post-merger company: oncology; pain; inflammation; Alzheimer’s disease; psychoses; and diabetes. It said that 70% of Pfizer’s research projects a... WSJ.com: Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3216557 Wed, 27 Jan 2010 22:37:14 +0100 3216557 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3185298&cid=t_299694_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blisstree.com%2Fhealthbolt%2Fduh-study-lost-thoughts-alzheimers%2F This isn’t to make light of memory loss, but it is really a surprise to learn that “cognitive fluctuations, or episodes when train of thought temporarily is lost, are more likely to occur in older persons who are developing Alzheimer’s disease than in their healthy peers”? This was the finding of a study by researchers at the Washington University School of Medicine and the results were published in the most recent issue of the journal Neurology. Everyone experiences memory lapses, so having them doesn’t mean that you have Alzheimer’s, but the lapses, staring into space, and daytime sleepiness are found more often in people who are developing Alzheimer’s disease. The researchers studied 511 seniors who were on average about 78 years old. The study... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3185298 Tue, 19 Jan 2010 15:23:01 +0100 3185298 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3142802&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fv%2FMpHkT1zudTY%26rel%3D0%26color1%3D0xb1b1b1%26color2%3D0xcfcfcf%26hl%3Den_US%26feature%3Dplayer_embedded%26fs%3D1 Sooner or later, you gotta say, it doesn't matter whether you win or lose -- as long as you win. Take that Alzheimer's..... By Bob DeMarco I believe many Alzheimer's caregivers are like me on this one. I try to buy my mother the things she liked before she started suffering from Alzheimer's disease. Granted she doesn't show the same enthusiasm for the gifts like she did in days gone by. This can be disconcerting. I like to buy her flowers and I do so every week. Wonder why I didn't do that for my x-wife? Hmm, file that away for future reference. Sometimes when I give the flowers to my mother she says thank you, some times she doesn't. Sometimes she looks very happy, sometimes she doesn't. And now the story begins. Often she will take long stem flowers and start hacking away at them ... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3142802 Tue, 05 Jan 2010 15:41:31 +0100 3142802 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3142803&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FBr7mwQvOO48%2Fnashville-man-with-alzheimers-wanders.html Wandering is not something to be taken lightly.....By Bob DeMarco Once again I am reminded about the good works of Rose Lamatt. Rose was concerned about a woman in her town that she noticed wandering around aimlessly -- Mrs J. The family didn't seem concerned, so Rose took action. At the time, Rose was concerned that Mrs J would wander off into the woods and that something terrible would happen. Nashville police say an 81-year-old man with Alzheimer's disease froze to death after he wandered outside in bitter cold weather. Officers said the body of John Anderson was found lying under a tree Monday morning in his yard. No foul play is suspected. Anderson's wife said she put him to bed about 10 p.m. Sunday. The overnight low in Nashville was 12 degrees.Wandering is not something to be... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3142803 Tue, 05 Jan 2010 04:48:56 +0100 3142803 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3142804&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F7avZttEuHU0%2Fi-remember-you.html by Max Wallack I remember you. We were sweet friends, No, loyal family. We shared and trusted Each shiny day for a novel adventure. I remember you. You look familiar. I see you in my disheveled mind. Is it really you? How can I be sure? Dark shadows creep across your face. But I think I know you. Why do you look so evil? Your sweaty hands are grasping claws To snatch away my puzzled mind. Don't hurt me. Let me escape The cackling demons pursuing me. Their fiery breath Burns holes in my memory. Your eyes stare, glacial and fiendish. I feel the stench of your wrath. Don't chisel at mind. At least, Leave my soul intact. Come no closer. I tremble and quake As the paleness of death surrounds me. I think I remember you, But who am I? Max Wallack is a student at Boston University Academy.... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3142804 Tue, 05 Jan 2010 02:56:40 +0100 3142804 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3137632&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2Fzn8JgyHYJjc%2Falzheimers-disease-front-row.html Knowing that the day is coming when your loved one --won't know you-- is the most horrific feeling of them all for an Alzheimer's caregiver...... By Bob DeMarco I often use the term "living Alzheimer's from the front row". This term describes caregivers that watch Alzheimer's take its course 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Once Alzheimer's disease strikes, Alzheimer's caregivers get to witness the craziness that comes with Alzheimer's day in and day out. If you think it is disconcerting to see someone suffering from Alzheimer's for a few hours, a few days, or a week, think about what it might be like for every hour of every day for years. Most people give up trying to understand Alzheimer's before they get to any real understanding. Why? Because Alzheimer's is difficult to think... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3137632 Sun, 03 Jan 2010 16:21:19 +0100 3137632 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3136704&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F6I5lpgGrIDA%2Falzheimers-reading-room-man.html What do you see?...... By Bob DeMarco What do you see? What do you think this signifies? Does it elicit any feelings and/or emotions? Feedback welcome. Bob Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room Popular articles on the Alzheimer's Reading Room Advice and Insight -- Alzheimer's Reading Room Communicating in Alzheimer's World Worried About Alzheimer's Disease -- You Should Be Dementia and the Eight Types of Dementia The Mini-Cog Test for Alzheimer's and Dementia Is it Really Alzheimer's or Something Else? Alzheimer's Wandering Why it Happens and What to Do 50 Good Reasons to Subscribe to the Alzheimer's Reading Room Now World Health Care Spending and Performance Ranking by Country (Table) Urinary Incontinence -- How We Beat Alzheimer's Incontinence Are Alzheimer's Caregivers the F... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3136704 Sat, 02 Jan 2010 15:04:39 +0100 3136704 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3136706&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F7vLjBtsSDkE%2Fpreviously-on-alzheimers-reading-room.html “You will never do anything in this world without courage. It is the greatest quality of the mind next to honor.” --Aristotle..... By Bob DeMarco The Metamorphosis of This Alzheimer's Caregiver (Part One) The more I learned the more I wanted to know. I learned a great deal about Alzheimer's disease--including the science. It helped me understand a very mystifying disease. It helped me to put a frame around something that is difficult if not impossible to describe. Alzheimer's World -- Two Circles Trying to Intersect When Alzheimer's strikes communication and behavior change abruptly -- overnight. It is up to the caregiver to adjust since the person suffering from Alzheimer's is incapable of the adjustment. Understanding this need is the first big step. Communication in Alzheimer's... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3136706 Sat, 02 Jan 2010 04:45:23 +0100 3136706 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3136705&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FD3UJ4vu8AI0%2F2010-waybac-edition.html By Bob DeMarco Happy New Year. For today, I am going to jump into my WayBac machine. Maybe some of you are familiar with Mr. Peabody and his boy Sherman. Believe it or not, I took Dotty to see the fireworks in downtown Delray Beach last night. The fireworks go off at MIDNIGHT. Dotty no problem. As usual our little town of Delray Beach did a fantastic job. The finale' was excellent. If you ever come to Delray for New Year's eve, let me tell you its fantastic. They close off Atlantic avenue and you can walk around without fear. There are all kinds of street vendors and they have groups playing music right on the street corners. We also have First Night. Lots of rides for the kids, all kinds of games, lots of fun. Oh before I forget. They do the fireworks at 9 PM for the kids,and t... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3136705 Sat, 02 Jan 2010 01:52:04 +0100 3136705 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3135690&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FV5rnzLkYy7w%2Fhappy-new-year-quote-poem.html “A true friend knows your weaknesses but shows you your strengths; feels your fears but fortifies your faith; sees your anxieties but frees your spirit; recognizes your disabilities but emphasizes your possibilities.” -- William Arthur Ward “We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year's Day.” -- Edith Lovejoy Pierce Bob and Dorothy Another fresh new year is here . . . Another year to live! To banish worry, doubt, and fear, To love and laugh and give! This bright new year is given me To live each day with zest . . . To daily grow and try to be My highest and my best! --William Arthur Ward Advice and Insight -- Alzheimer's Reading Room End 2009 (Source: Alzheimer... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3135690 Fri, 01 Jan 2010 13:51:56 +0100 3135690 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3133781&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FZ4Ofol3xzgU%2Fheaven-or-hell.html There is no blame in Heaven. No blaming Alzheimer's. No blaming the person suffering from Alzheimer's. No blaming your unlucky, uncertain fate. No blaming yourself. You are made of flesh and blood. We all are......By Bob DeMarco Lately, I find myself thinking more and more about communication and Alzheimer's. In fact, I am starting to think about it incessantly. I find myself thinking about my 8 plus years of studying and thinking about communication. I say 8 plus because it all started at LaSalle College High School in Philadelphia. Later it became more formalized at the Pennsylvania State University (4 years) and the University of Georgia (4 years). ___________________________ There is no doubt in my mind that the most important part of my education took place at LaSalle. I was f... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3133781 Thu, 31 Dec 2009 15:06:30 +0100 3133781 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3133782&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FPeg6ClCtuf8%2Fexercise-calms-agitation-associated.html Agitation and functioning improved in a group of elderly nursing home residents suffering from severe dementia when they engaged in just 30 minutes of supervised exercise three times a week..... By Bob DeMarco If you put the word exercise in the search box of this blog you will find more articles than you could read in a day. I write often about how I believe the single most important thing to do with/for a person suffering from Alzheimer's is to exercise. I write repeatedly about how exercise transforms my mother from a zombie like state to a person with a smile on her face. In part, exercise explains how I was able to transform my mother from being very mean and angry into a person more like her former self --before Alzheimer's. Lately, several people told me their loved one can'... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3133782 Wed, 30 Dec 2009 23:48:37 +0100 3133782 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3129666&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FNl-BBQQUUvE%2Frandom-thought-at-end-of-2009.html Alzheimer's will try to rob the Alzheimer's caregiver of their spirit. It will try and send them into the black hole of depression. Every day Alzheimer's whispers in the ear of the caregiver -- give up.By Bob... Comments welcome. (Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The) Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3129666 Wed, 30 Dec 2009 14:30:57 +0100 3129666 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3129667&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FReve6rhUN6w%2Fginkgo-biloba-two-thumbs-down-for.html In the largest study ever conducted, Ginkgo biloba was found to be ineffective in reducing the development of dementia and Alzheimer's disease in older people.... By Bob DeMarco "It just continues to show that... Comments welcome. (Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The) Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3129667 Wed, 30 Dec 2009 00:40:24 +0100 3129667 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3129487&cid=t_299694_87_f&fid=36224&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.wsjonline.com%2F%7Er%2Fwsj%2Fhealth%2Ffeed%2F%7E3%2FfDaXyyUt-iE%2F Medical research is finally starting to catch up with millions of Americans who have been taking vitamins and supplements for years. But people who swear by their pills to stay fit and sharp may not like the evidence that’s starting to accumulate. The latest comes from a federally funded study of ginkgo biloba, a supplement widely used to improve memory and other cognitive functions. More than 3,000 people between the ages of 72 and 96 were randomly assigned to take a placebo or 120 mg of ginkgo twice a day. None of the patients had dementia when the study began, and they were followed for a median of just over six years. Those who took ginkgo fared no better than those who took placebo on a battery of tests that examined memory, language, attention and other measures of cognitive f... WSJ.com: Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3129487 Tue, 29 Dec 2009 21:03:19 +0100 3129487 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3129668&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FFNbDhkhE1YQ%2Fcure-for-alzheimers.html The two biggest misconceptions are “It’s just aging” and “It’s untreatable, so we should just leave the person alone.” Both of these misconceptions are remnants of an outdated view that hinders families from getting... Comments welcome. (Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The) Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3129668 Tue, 29 Dec 2009 17:20:00 +0100 3129668 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3126782&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FUwhEqgJ3-4E%2Fjust-puzzled-answers.html You might imagine my shock when my mother did about half of the TV crossword puzzle that was in this week's Florida Sun Sentinel newspaper......By Bob DeMarco Recently my mother scored a 12 on the MMSE -- Mini-Mental State Examination. Her current diagnosis is mild to severe Alzheimer's disease. Every day, I put the crossword puzzle in front of her. Sometimes she gets a word, or two, or three. You might imagine my shock when she did about half of the TV crossword puzzle that was in this week's Florida Sun Sentinel newspaper. Just the other day she turned the shower off for the first time in years. Actually, she did it two days in a row. Here is the link to the previous article about the crossword puzzle -- Crossword Puzzle -- Or Just Puzzled? Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Roo... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3126782 Mon, 28 Dec 2009 21:39:36 +0100 3126782 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3124690&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FBuwzb4AgjQk%2Fcrossword-puzzle-or-just-puzzled.html So today, I go and check mom's crossword puzzle. What the heck? Instead of a couple of three letter words she has about half the crossword puzzle..... By Bob DeMarco I put the crossword puzzle in front of my mother every day. In the "old days" my mother would do crossword puzzles all the time. I bought her a subscription where she would get a new puzzle book every month -- she liked that gift. I even printed out crossword puzzles from the Internet -- she really didn't like dealing with the print out version of the puzzle. So today, I go and check her crossword puzzle. What the heck? Instead of a couple of three letter words she has about half the crossword puzzle. Hmm. Do you know the crossword puzzle answers? What little Jack Horner found (4 letters). "___ in Trees" (3 letters). Pe... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3124690 Mon, 28 Dec 2009 16:25:31 +0100 3124690 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3123503&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FDbO20TuIW3U%2Fshower-off-wozo-workshop.html If I had not received this advice, I feel comfortable in saying that most of what I have accomplished with my mother would not have happened.....By Bob DeMarco Let me preface this article by recounting something I learned almost five years ago. It was wonderful, important advice from Doctor Chiriboga. He counseled me to let my mother do whatever I believed she could do. He told me, you are the one and you know what she can and can't do. He further advised me not to let anyone deter me with criticism or negative Karma (my word). If I had not received this advice, I feel comfortable in saying that most of what I have accomplished with my mother would not have happened. So five years later my mother turned off the shower today for the first time in at least two years. Here is the dril... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3123503 Sat, 26 Dec 2009 23:33:40 +0100 3123503 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3122189&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FLWUYeI54q5M%2Fto-gift-or-not-to-gift.html We know as Alzheimer's develops a person losses their ability to remember. Do we know for certain that they lose their ability to feel?By Bob DeMarco I read several stories on the Internet about Alzheimer's caregivers and gifts to Alzheimer's sufferers. It appears some Alzheimer's caregivers decide not to gift. Their reasoning is easy to understand, they believe the person suffering from Alzheimer's won't remember the gift, or won't appreciate the gift like they did in days gone by. So why bother? I believe, as many of you know, that there is more going on in the brain of someone suffering from Alzheimer's than might be apparent on the surface. How do you know for certain that the person suffering from Alzheimer's won't appreciate a gift? How do you know for certain that it doesn't ... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3122189 Sat, 26 Dec 2009 15:33:46 +0100 3122189 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3120576&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FpZ0Fq3kGQT0%2Fmerry-christmas-quotes.html Christmas is a time when you get homesick – even when you’re home. -- Carol Nelson I heard the bells on Christmas Day Their old, familiar carols play, And wild and sweet The words repeat Of peace on earth, good-will to men! -- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow For somehow, not only at Christmas, but all the long year through, The joy that you give to others is the joy that comes back to you. -- John Greenleaf Whittier From Bob and Dorothy __________________ Christmas Bells Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (Written on Christmas Day 1863) I heard the bells on Christmas Day Their old, familiar carols play, And wild and sweet The words repeat Of peace on earth, good-will to men! And thought how, as the day had come, The belfries of all Christendom Had rolled along The unbroken song Of peace on... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3120576 Fri, 25 Dec 2009 04:54:43 +0100 3120576 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3120577&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fv%2FnQrdxtWgHbE%26hl%3Den_US%26fs%3D1%26rel%3D0%26color1%3D0x006699%26color2%3D0x54abd6%26border%3D1 Another good example of how to use YouTube as an Alzheimer's caregiver tool. Dorothy really perks up when I put these on. She also seems a bit mesmerized -- this is a good thing. Advice and Insight into Alzheimer's disease Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room Popular articles on the Alzheimer's Reading Room Previously On the Alzheimer's Reading Room (In Case You Missed It Edition) Communicating in Alzheimer's World Worried About Alzheimer's Disease -- You Should Be Dementia and the Eight Types of Dementia H1N1 Flu Virus Everything You Need to Know Does the Combination of Aricept and Namenda Help Slow the Rate of Decline in Alzheimer's Patients Test Your Memory (TYM) for Alzheimer's or Dementia in Five Minutes Dimebon Connection Study The Metamorphosis of This Alzheimer's Caregiver... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3120577 Thu, 24 Dec 2009 22:38:45 +0100 3120577 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3119046&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F9IBEkYH1WX4%2Fmy-dad-missing-and-found.html We learned later that my father had become disoriented and lost. He did not have a cell phone, remember the name of the hotel where he and my mother were staying, remember my mother’s cell phone number...he was unable to ask for help..... By Donna Giovannetti My father went missing in Maryland. My mother was attending a conference at Fort Meade, Maryland and my father was supposed to pick her up at 4 p.m. By 5 p.m. he still had not arrived. My mother reported him missing to the Fort Meade police department and called me at my home in Lubbock, Texas. Thus began some of the most terrible hours of my life. My husband Robert called Lori Gillen (a friend of his), the executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association in Lubbock. She told him about the Medicalert Safe Return program (of l... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3119046 Thu, 24 Dec 2009 16:39:30 +0100 3119046 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3119045&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FHocoM2B9QDM%2Fwho-is-max-wallack.html ..... By Bob DeMarco Max is a sophomore at Boston University Academy. Max is 13 years old. Max is an inventor. Max's great-grandmother suffered from Alzheimer’s disease. Max, the inventor, came up with a simple but ingenious idea. He started a public charity called Puzzles To Remember. A wonderful play on words. Puzzles To Remember collects new and in good condition puzzles and distributes them to facilites that care for patients suffering from Alzheimer's and dementia. Max's good works did not go unnoticed. Max was awarded $2500 for this effort. Max Wallack was named a 2009 Build-A-Bear Huggable Hero. Care to guess what Max did with his new found 2500 bucks? Bought a new IPod? Put it in the bank for college? Guess again. Max turned around and donated the $2500 to the Boston Un... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3119045 Thu, 24 Dec 2009 16:39:30 +0100 3119045 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3119044&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FMw37qvLC7ng%2Fcancer-alzheimers-less-likely-to-strike.html If there truly is an inverse association, it gives us one more way of finding out what's going wrong in both cancer and Alzheimer's, and that could lead us to new ways to treat either condition.-- Catherine M. Roe Advice and Insight into Alzheimer's disease Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room It may seem a small consolation from either point of view, but a new study has affirmed that patients with cancer are less likely to develop Alzheimer's disease, and patients with Alzheimer's disease are less likely to get cancer. "There were still people who had both Alzheimer's and cancer, but it was significantly less common than we would expect," says lead author Catherine M. Roe, Ph.D., research instructor in neurology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. "If there t... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3119044 Thu, 24 Dec 2009 16:39:29 +0100 3119044 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3119043&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Fstatic.apture.com%2Fmedia%2Fembed.swf Dorothy was grovin' to the tune of the music on this video..... Advice and Insight into Alzheimer's disease Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room Follow the Alzheimer's Reading Room on Twitter Popular articles on the Alzheimer's Reading Room Previously On the Alzheimer's Reading Room (In Case You Missed It Edition) Communicating in Alzheimer's World Worried About Alzheimer's Disease -- You Should Be Dementia and the Eight Types of Dementia H1N1 Flu Virus Everything You Need to Know Does the Combination of Aricept and Namenda Help Slow the Rate of Decline in Alzheimer's Patients Test Your Memory (TYM) for Alzheimer's or Dementia in Five Minutes Dimebon Connection Study The Metamorphosis of This Alzheimer's Caregiver (Part One) The Mini-Cog Test for Alzheimer's and Dementia Is it Real... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3119043 Thu, 24 Dec 2009 16:25:10 +0100 3119043 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3115264&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2Fli_1eQgOTtE%2Fwiggling-my-toes-change-on-horizon.html The core focus of the Alzheimer's Reading Room is advice and insight into Alzheimer's disease....By Bob DeMarco When I wake up in the morning the first thing I do is wiggle my toes for a minute. It might sound strange but those are the points on my body that are farthest from my brain? Is farthest a word? It seems to me that this is a good exercise for my brain. I base this on the fact that one of the first things going on my mother is her ability to walk. The use of her legs. When I wiggle my toes I have to think about it while doing it. I am also sending my brain a message -- Alzheimer's away. I also stretch my feet in the morning. This stretches all the nerves along the bottoms of my feet. It also stretches my calves. I also move my ankles around in a circle. All the time conscio... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3115264 Wed, 23 Dec 2009 14:53:09 +0100 3115264 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3115267&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FrIg14Qo89fA%2Falzheimers-world-two-circles-trying-to.html Alzheimer's World is difficult to understand and accept. Some caregivers get there, some don't..... By Bob DeMarco It takes lots of thought, hard work, and the development of a new mental construct of behavior to understand Alzheimer's disease. It takes time. Take the relationship between my mother and me as an example. I've known my mother my entire life. We have been communicating our entire lives. I would imagine that our communication is similar to most people. We engaged in all the human behaviors and emotions over the years. We established patterns on how to deal with the good and the bad. Did I ever get angry with my mother -- of course. Frustrated, agitated -- of course. When we had a problem with each other we learned how to work it out. How to make up and reattach. Over the ... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3115267 Wed, 23 Dec 2009 02:26:56 +0100 3115267 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3115266&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Fstatic.apture.com%2Fmedia%2Fembed.swf You might want to consider sending this article to your family and friends in advance of a holiday gathering. It might be more effective to let them read this; rather than, telling them one-by-one. These are good suggestions.My personal favorite piece of advice: Alzheimer's patients can become frustrated when someone tries to challenge their memories with questions like: "Do you remember me? "Do you remember what we did last summer? Follow the Alzheimer's Reading Room on Twitter Alzheimer's Disease Doesn't Take a Holiday The bright lights, big crowds and bustle that make the holidays fun for most of us often do just the opposite for people with Alzheimer's and those who care for them. Dr. Cindy Carlsson, UW Health geriatrics physician and Alzheimer's disease researcher at the University... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3115266 Tue, 22 Dec 2009 14:20:32 +0100 3115266 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3111665&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FQh73AsFcALg%2Falzheimers-disease-doesnt-take-holiday.html You might want to consider sending this article to your family and friends in advance of a holiday gathering. It might be more effective to let them read this; rather than, telling them one-by-one. These are good suggestions.My personal favorite piece of advice: Alzheimer's patients can become frustrated when someone tries to challenge their memories with questions like: "Do you remember me? "Do you remember what we did last summer? Follow the Alzheimer's Reading Room on Twitter Alzheimer's Disease Doesn't Take a Holiday The bright lights, big crowds and bustle that make the holidays fun for most of us often do just the opposite for people with Alzheimer's and those who care for them. Dr. Cindy Carlsson, UW Health geriatrics physician and Alzheimer's disease researcher at the University... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3111665 Tue, 22 Dec 2009 14:20:32 +0100 3111665 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3111666&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FT_mP-M78KqA%2Fwhy-didnt-doctors-suggest-memory-test.html I am sitting here thinking about memory testing for Alzheimer's and dementia..... By Bob DeMarco Don't ask me why, but it is just dawning on me that none of my mothers's first three personal care physicians suggested or offered to get her memory tested. This in spite of the fact that I was clearly describing my concerns about her mental health and behavior. Did you know that the typical personal care physician schedules an appointment every ten minutes? They intend to see six patients in an hour. It takes ten minutes to put gasoline in your care. I had one doctor that looked at his watch as I was asking him questions. Sometimes the nonverbal communication is the tip-off. The visual cue. Here is some advice -- if you see your doctor checking his watch, and if he looks frustrated answe... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3111666 Mon, 21 Dec 2009 18:00:04 +0100 3111666 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3108531&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FvWMqWICpTSk%2Fyou-know-ive-got-alzheimers-dont-you.html Listen to the Story -- You Know I've Got The Alzheimer's, Don't You? You Know I've Got The Alzheimer's, Don't You? Every once in a while, being stranded at the airport can have an upside. Take the time commentator Teresa Amend got stuck in a terminal. And she heard a story from a man she'll never forget. TERESA AMEND: You know I've got the Alzheimer's, don't you? The man's words took me completely by surprise. And for a second, I thought I'd misunderstood. He'd been sitting next to me in the crowded airport and had been cheerfully chatting away for at least 10 minutes. Maybe a decade older than my 57 years, he'd been friendly and charming and totally articulate. I, on the other hand, had been my usual distracted self. Clicking off my cell, I finally gave him my full, undivided atten... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3108531 Mon, 21 Dec 2009 14:16:04 +0100 3108531 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3105264&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F2jfdn_p7Vxc%2Fsobering-statistics-about-alzheimers.html How many people suffering from Alzheimer's go missing each day?... I have never seen this number reported. There are some educated guesstimates -- around 125,000 in a year. However, as far as I can tell, there are only about 30,000 reported cases in a year. So the range in any given day is between 342 and 82. A sobering thought. Current statistics indicate that about 60 percent of persons suffering from Alzheimer's will wander. This makes the potential pool around 3,000,000 individuals. It is likely that only a small fraction of those that do wander get reported. My guess is that many who wander don't get far. As a result, they are found quickly and only locale residents get involved. But what about those that don't get found quickly? Of those found within 12 hours, 93 percent surv... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3105264 Sat, 19 Dec 2009 15:37:28 +0100 3105264 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3101044&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FrIg14Qo89fA%2Falzheimers-world-two-circles-trying-to.html Alzheimer's World is difficult to understand and accept. Some caregivers get there, some don't..... Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor It takes lots of thought, hard work, and the development of a new mental construct of behavior to understand Alzheimer's disease. It takes time. Take the relationship between my mother and me as an example. I've known my mother my entire life. We have been communicating our entire lives. I would imagine that our communication is similar to most people. We engaged in all the human behaviors and emotions over the years. We established patterns on how to deal with the good and the bad. Did I ever get angry with my mother -- of course. Frustrated, agitated -- of course. When we had a problem with each other we learned how to work it out. How to m... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3101044 Fri, 18 Dec 2009 16:35:58 +0100 3101044 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3101045&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FTNZRUpPAUnk%2Fuh-oh-update.html Carole Larkin wrote: So fill us in on the rest of the day later. What's the end result- good day or bad? Carole bad day. The pain in my mother's elbow is persisting. I gave her the medication and a couple of Ibuprofen. There isn't any swelling and she can use it. This is not a new problem. It is hard to tell without an MRI if it is her shoulder (likely), tendinitis, or arthritis. Other than that she is kinda comatose today. Comastose in the sense she isn't talking and has that dull, I am not really here, look on her face. She is having extreme difficulty walking. She is looking down and more or less to her right. She won't look at me. I think she is forgetting how to breath when she walks. It has been raining all day, but I doubt that is causing the problem in her elbow. The weath... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3101045 Fri, 18 Dec 2009 01:55:21 +0100 3101045 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3097035&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FVNsWi8xAT0o%2Felderly-woman-with-dementia-found-after.html Some lessons to be learned about Alzheimer's and wandering.I could put up one or more stories every day about someone who is lost and wandering around. Most often they are elderly and suffering from dementia. I decided to put this one up because I think there are some lessons to be learned. I want to start by congratulating the Frederick, Maryland police force. Great organization and commitment. What an effort. To find the missing elderly woman the Frederick police had to use 50 to 60 police and civilians, and four civilian K-9 search and rescue groups. Wow. Keep in my mind the missing woman was on foot -- not in a car. They finally found her conscious, on a property adjoining her home. She was found huddled up against a piece of plywood near an old shed. Evidently she was walking aro... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3097035 Thu, 17 Dec 2009 14:54:39 +0100 3097035 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3092904&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F87ACg4jw32M%2Ffda-approves-generic-aricept-to-treat.html The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first generic versions of Aricept (donepezil hydrochloride) orally disintegrating tablets.This is great news for Alzheimer's patients taking Aricept. I'll try to get more information from the generic drug manufacturer on the pricing and availability as soon as possible. Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first generic versions of Aricept (donepezil hydrochloride) orally disintegrating tablet s on Dec. 11. Donepezil hydrochloride is indicated for the treatment of dementia related to Alzheimer’s disease. Orally disintegrating tablets dissolve on the tongue, without having to be swallowed whole. This may make it easier to take the medication for older or disabled patient... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3092904 Wed, 16 Dec 2009 13:47:12 +0100 3092904 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3092905&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FJY102PLvOMI%2Fhow-little-we-understand-alzheimers.html I encourage anyone who provides care or has a family member or friend diagnosed with Alzheimer’s to educate yourselves. By Angil Tarach Alzheimer's Reading Room Bob DeMarco recently posted the story of Eldon Foster's death after wandering away from an assisted living facility. Besides the sadness I felt for Eldon, I was highly angered by the stupidity of comments left on the article describing Eldon's death. I have taken a couple days to process this so I don’t unleash my thoughts and anger, but a couple days after the fact continues to leave me angry and sad. The stupidity and ignorance expressed in the comments reinforces that there is a lack of knowledge and understanding when it comes to Alzheimer’s disease. Persons suffering from this devastating disease are victimized ... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3092905 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 21:22:58 +0100 3092905 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3089527&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FmWSjOYr7fhY%2Falzheimers-caregiver-love.html "The ordinary arts we practice every day at home are of more importance to the soul than their simplicity might suggest." -- Thomas Moore..... I am receiving more and more email. Over the years, I talk to more and more caregivers. Most of the interactions have to do with common problems experienced by caregivers. Also, potential solutions to the problems. Caregivers often lament. Whether they know it or not, its grief. Often an overwhelming sense of grief that is coming to the surface. Often a subliminal cry for help. Rarely discussed is the most important interaction of them all -- Alzheimer's caregiver love. Lost in this maze of emotions and confusion is love. I wonder how much time caregivers spend thinking about how they are affecting the well being of the person suffering from... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3089527 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 14:54:40 +0100 3089527 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3089528&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FouLqSmO_ynA%2Fmillion-email-march-for-alzheimers_14.html New Legislation Would Improve Treatment Services For Alzheimer’s Patients And Expand Training And Support Services For Their Families And Caregivers....We must do more to ensure that patients suffering from this condition [Alzheimer's disease] are receiving the best care possible, and that Alzheimer's caregivers looking after the needs of our loved ones are receiving the highest level of assistance and the best training techniques. -- U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (New York) Here is copy of the email I am sending to my elected officials requesting that they support this legislation designed to help Alzheimer's Caregivers. (you can personalize the email and make it your own). Dear Senator Or Congressperson XXXXX. A recent Harris Interactive poll indicated that 100 million Americans h... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3089528 Mon, 14 Dec 2009 23:26:36 +0100 3089528 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3084961&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FH7md436vd68%2Fman-with-alzheimers-wanders-dies-and.html Here is the background. Earlier this week, 85-year-old Eldon Foster died when he strayed away from his assisted living home in Keenesburg. An aide who was on-hand found him a half hour later with lacerations to his head. Instead of following policy and calling 911, she took him back to his room and put him in bed. A few hours later, he died. With me so far? Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email Here is what his brother-in-law Bill Brown had to say: He made the decision to confront the cold, knowing what the result would be, knowing that maybe it would cost him his life. But that was okay. That was okay....His quality of life was not much.Say what? Eldon had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. Here are some of the interesting comments from people that read the story... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3084961 Sun, 13 Dec 2009 23:14:54 +0100 3084961 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3083178&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F_UEbjhnsxus%2Fbunkhouse-logic-send-alzheimers-packing.html In this study, we went directly to the root cause of Alzheimer's disease and asked whether we could influence the onset of the disease by modulating the aging process," says first author Ehud Cohen, Ph.D., formerly a postdoctoral researcher in Dillin's lab and now an assistant professor at the Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School in Jerusalem, Israel. To answer this intriguing question, he slowed the aging process in a mouse model for Alzheimer's by lowering the activity of the IGF-1 signaling pathway. "This highly conserved pathway plays a crucial role in the regulation of lifespan and youthfulness across many species, including worms, flies, and mice and is linked to extreme longevity in humans," he explains. As a result, mice with reduced IGF-1 signaling live up to 35 percent long... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3083178 Sun, 13 Dec 2009 13:55:12 +0100 3083178 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3083179&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FyQny-eMLS0c%2Fdog-eats-chicken.html Bye Bye Birdie.... By Kathy Hatfield Dad and I watched the Meryl Streep film, Julie and Julia which is about a contemporary girl in Queens, NY who writes a blog about Cooking every recipe in the Julia Child cookbook, Mastering the Art of French Cooking. Since Dad has alzheimer’s, It's hard to find a movie that Dad and I can both enjoy, so this was a great mix of 1920s Paris and today's modern movie. Well, I became inspired to cook a chicken. I know how silly that sounds when you can buy a $4.99 rotisserie chicken at any grocery store, but I know how much my Dad loves chicken and wanted to make a real one, from scratch. So I baked and basted until the most beautiful golden bird emerged from my oven. I felt a little Julia Child-ish myself. I set the table, got Dad seated with a nice g... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3083179 Sat, 12 Dec 2009 20:30:33 +0100 3083179 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3079545&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FdtEdW1PlX9U%2Fsenator-debbie-stabenow-michigan.html It will take you less than four minutes to tell your Senators and Congressperson that you believe legislation to support Alzheimer's caregivers is important. Four minutes to make a difference. Or you can sit back and do nothing. Are you the one that makes the difference?.... Thank you . . . . . . for contacting me to support funding for Alzheimer's disease research. I share your support for increased federal resources to fight this devastating disease. That is why I have requested that the Senate Appropriations Committee support a significant investment in Older Americans Act programs that include Alzheimer's disease research grants to states. In addition, this year's budget includes a $443 million increase in funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH), which will help continu... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3079545 Fri, 11 Dec 2009 14:24:27 +0100 3079545 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3075749&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.caregiving.org%2Fdata%2FCaregivingUSAllAgesExecSum.pdf Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor Prevalence of Caregiving An estimated 65.7 million people in the U.S. are serving as unpaid family caregivers to an adult or a child. 48.9 million are adult only caregivers. Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email The Caregiving Situation Caregivers are predominantly female (66%). They are 48 years of age, on average. One third take care of two or more people (34%). A large majority of caregivers provide care for a relative (86%). Over one-third are taking care of a parent (36%). One in seven care for their own child (14%). Caregivers have been in their role for an average of 4.6 years. Three in ten for five years or more (31%). The typical recipient of care is also female (62%) and averages 61 years of age. Seven in ten... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3075749 Thu, 10 Dec 2009 13:42:49 +0100 3075749 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3071444&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F7vLjBtsSDkE%2Fpreviously-on-alzheimers-reading-room.html “You will never do anything in this world without courage. It is the greatest quality of the mind next to honor.” --Aristotle..... Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor The Metamorphosis of This Alzheimer's Caregiver (Part One) The more I learned the more I wanted to know. I learned a great deal about Alzheimer's disease--including the science. It helped me understand a very mystifying disease. It helped me to put a frame around something that is difficult if not impossible to describe. The Metamorphosis of This Alzheimer's Caregiver (Part Two) It is difficult to describe the range of emotions a caregiver might feel or experience in a single day. Imagine being happy and then sad, caring then angry, focused then frustrated -- an almost endless stream of feelings and emotions ... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3071444 Wed, 09 Dec 2009 16:24:48 +0100 3071444 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3067282&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FlckPmGRv_VY%2Fchristmas-and-alzheimers-caregiver.html For most Alzheimer's caregivers Christmas means another bout with Yin and Yang.....Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor For the typical Alzheimer's caregiver Christmas day can bring on a tidal wave of conflicting feelings. Christmas can be an emotional roller coaster ride. I'm sitting here thinking about Christmas morning and my heart is feeling heavy. I don't mind this feeling so much because at least I know I am still feeling. Nevertheless, it is a bit of a drag on my spirit. I'm envisioning Christmas morning. I'll wake my mother up, give her a kiss and say, Merry Christmas. She won't know its Christmas. Once I get her situated, I'll bring her into the living room and put the big stack of presents in front of her. I wonder will she be happy or confused. I think I know the a... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3067282 Tue, 08 Dec 2009 14:51:11 +0100 3067282 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3063448&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FazUv6PIdVHY%2Fcommunicating-in-alzheimers-world.html Let's face it, dealing with Alzheimer's is not easy. Understanding Alzheimer's disease is not easy. Some people can't do it...ever... Bob DeMarco ... Hard to do, worth the effort. Comments and reactions welcome. (Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The) Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3063448 Mon, 07 Dec 2009 16:47:09 +0100 3063448 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3063366&cid=t_299694_122_f&fid=34736&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FChannelN-PodcastsPoweredByOdiogo%2F%7E3%2FmJSeRoh4x5w%2Fdementia-caregiving.html Video Caregiving Streaming educational clips for family and caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Custom video player with VOD modules a few minutes long each and background multimedia. Useful info on coping, communicating, activities, family relationships, caregiving issues, dignity and more. The producer offers more elder care info on DVD here. (Source: Channel N) Channel N blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3063366 Mon, 07 Dec 2009 16:30:40 +0100 3063366 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3063449&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FYp2cCh7XSn4%2Falzheimers-clock-draw-test-detect-signs.html Drawing a clock by hand is one of several useful screening tools that can help to detect mild cognitive impairment, dementia, or Alzheimer's..... They say... Hard to do, worth the effort. Comments and reactions welcome. (Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The) Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3063449 Sun, 06 Dec 2009 20:52:17 +0100 3063449 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3061535&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FKX5AK2X9B7w%2Falzheimers-and-nice-clean-fresh-towels.html “After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded.....”Like everyone, my mother uses towels to dry herself off after a shower. Or, to dry her hands. When a towel gets dirty, I throw it in the hamper. I wash all the towels at the same time. My dirty towels, my mother's dirty towels. When I wash the towels -- I use Tide and OxyClean. I also have this little plastic ball that I put Downey fabric softener in -- makes the towels come out nice, fresh, and soft. The ball goes right in with the wash -- in the washer. When the towels are dry I fold them. Often, I stick my nose on the towel and smell them. They smell very nice, and are nice to the touch. My mother's towels smell just like my towels. No... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3061535 Sun, 06 Dec 2009 15:52:11 +0100 3061535 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3056853&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FbMOQyW9oKUw%2Fcannabis-caregiver.html For several years now, I have been envisioning a great new business that I would start when legal marijuana comes to Florida. Let me start by saying, I went to college during the dawning of the Age of Aquarius. If I can stop laughing I'll give you my take on the article below. If you are one of my good buddies you already heard my story. If you read -- The Metamorphosis of This Alzheimer's Caregiver (Part One) -- you know I am a curious person. I am always coming up with wacky ideas for new businesses. Not all of them are as wacky as they seem. For several years now, I have been envisioning a great new business that I would start when legal marijuana comes to Florida. Here is a snapshot. I would employ retirees and start a new business growing medical marijuana. The retiree would onl... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3056853 Fri, 04 Dec 2009 15:30:56 +0100 3056853 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3052364&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nfcacares.org%2Fpdfs%2FFCCF2001_report.pdf The word respite is frequently used in the world of caregivers, paid and unpaid, but how many know its meaning or the importance of it? By Angil Tarach Alzheimer's Reading Room Respite is defined by Merriam-Webster as an interval of rest or relief. There are statistics everywhere, but they can vary widely. I estimate that there are between 44 and 50 million people in the US who are caring for someone who is disabled or sick and over 18 years old. Millions of these caregiver’s provide full time care. The National Family Caregivers Association, as well as other organizations have done survey’s and studies, and have found many family member’s have not even identified themselves as a caregiver until months or years after providing care. Family members of those afflicted with Alzhe... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3052364 Wed, 02 Dec 2009 18:23:06 +0100 3052364 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3048324&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F8XJBzNjf4g4%2Fdementia-leaves-daughter-feeling-scared.html Caring for her parents requires all of Richlyn Spalding's attention, every minute of each day. She provides the care it would take six professionals to provide in a day, if her parents were in a nursing home. Spalding is conflicted about sending her parents to live in a nursing home because she would feel guilty but in the process she is putting her own health and wellbeing at risk. To Continue reading go here. Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email Popular articles on the Alzheimer's Reading Room Worried About Alzheimer's Disease Dementia and the Eight Types of Dementia H1N1 Flu Virus Everything You Need to Know Does the Combination of Aricept and Namenda Help Slow the Rate of Decline in Alzheimer's Patients Test Your Memory (TYM) for Alzheimer's or Dementia in Five Min... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3048324 Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:27:55 +0100 3048324 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3039999&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F0i2_csUDbtI%2Fhow-many-days-to-turn-penny-into.html Soon we will take our first Alzheimer's Reading Room trip over to the Alzheimer's Bunkhouse.... Note, trips into the bunkhouse are usually taken to solve a problem. Before you can solve a problem you have to define the problem, and then try to envision all the possible solutions to the problem. This is often harder to do than you might think. Once a potential solution is identified it then needs to be implemented. I learned a long time ago, it is a lot easier to come up with a solution to a problem then it is to implement a solution to a problem. Implementing a solution to a problem is hard work. Often it takes more than one person to implement a solution to a problem. Some times it takes an entire team or group of people working together to implement a successful solution to a problem... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3039999 Mon, 30 Nov 2009 02:12:26 +0100 3039999 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3036027&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FKysxByY85Xo%2Fsenator-kirsten-gillibrand-introduces.html We must do more to ensure that patients suffering from this condition [Alzheimer's disease] are receiving the best care possible, and that Alzheimer's caregivers looking after the needs of our loved ones are receiving the highest level of assistance and the best training techniques. -- U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (New York) New Measure Would Improve Treatment Services For Alzheimer’s Patients And Expand Training And Support Services For Their Families And Caregivers....Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor If you are interested in contacting Senator Gillibrand with some words of encouragement or thanks -- go here. You might also consider sending the link to this article, or the information contained in this article to your own United States Senator or Representative. You ... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3036027 Sat, 28 Nov 2009 16:24:09 +0100 3036027 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3036028&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FQxGmDh-eshw%2Fchristmas-shopping-tip-woot-me-and.html I wanted to bring Woot.com to your attention. They offer a new special sale everyday and sometimes you can get lucky. Woot customers offer reviews on all the products. Plus, people that already own the products offered frequently weigh in. Over on Wootkids they have this today -- Tyco Terrainiac RC Vehicle. Good deal? Can't answer that for you. Last year, Woot had those fleece wrap around ear muffs on the website. They offered them for 5 bucks. I bought five and used them as an extra stocking stuffer. They were also a good cheap gift to use in a pinch, or to let someone know you care (well, care enough to give em a gift, but not enough to go for the Kindle). Its the thought that counts --right? The fleece ear muffs received excellent reviews. Me? I wouldn't know. Its warm down here in... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3036028 Fri, 27 Nov 2009 21:48:33 +0100 3036028 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3033759&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FVahtDIYfc7I%2Fmetamorphosis-of-this-alzheimers_27.html I learned that I was not alone. I learned that I was the one and it was up to me. I reminded myself, if not me, Who? I came to a clear understanding that I was an Alzheimer's caregiver -- by Choice..... Lately, I am writing about my metamorphosis as an Alzheimer's caregiver. Many of the successes I had were a results of observation, thought, trial and error. Some of my ideas came to me after talking with other Alzheimer's caregivers. Some of the techniques I developed took months or years before they started to work effectively. It isn't easy. Sometimes I get the impression that I might be making it sound easy on the Alzheimer's Reading Room. That is not my intention. I decided to go back and read some of the articles I wrote in previous years. I was not surprised to learn that my ... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3033759 Fri, 27 Nov 2009 15:59:02 +0100 3033759 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3030079&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.myfoxtwincities.com%2Fvideo%2Fvideoplayer.swf%3Fdppversion%3D3758 They put her in what they call the locked unit. At that point in time it was six beds in a small hallway with locked doors. She went berserk...She was so medicated that when I would come see her she wouldn't act like she knew who I was. I was somebody familiar so she'd look up at me and she'd have tears in her eyes and she'd say help me....I want to encourage each of you to take the time to watch this video and read the story. This will take some time, so if you can't do it now bookmark the link and do it when you have the time. I feel comfortable saying you won't be disappointed, you don't want to miss this. I remember when Laurry Harmon first brought the Lakeview Ranch and Judy Berry into my awareness. After learning about what Judy was accomplishing at the Lakeview Ranch, and how she... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3030079 Wed, 25 Nov 2009 20:18:03 +0100 3030079 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3026892&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2Fwxm0IDYALkk%2Fafter-visit-to-emergency-room-most.html This study shows that many patients walk away from important clinical encounters confident that they know what happened and why, but with little reason to be so confident.” The researchers measured the extent to which patients’ reports agreed with their doctors’ records in four areas: diagnosis, emergency care that was given, post-ER care needs and what kinds of symptoms or signs would require the patient to return to the ER or seek immediate care. Only 22 percent of patients’ reports were in complete harmony with what their care teams reported on all four counts. Fifty-eight percent of patients understood at least two of the four areas, but 20 percent were off on three or four areas of their care and follow-up needs. After asking patients about their diagnosis, care and post-E... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3026892 Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:55:17 +0100 3026892 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3023392&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F9y5ct3esO7E%2Falzheimers-caregiver-lament-this-is-not.html In order to communicate effectively with a person suffering from Alzheimer's disease you need to come to an understanding that they are now living in a new world -- I often refer to this as Alzheimer's world....When I hear these words -- this is not the person I knew, I am greatly saddened. I hear these words on television, read them on the Internet, and in the newspaper. I hear these words in person. In most cases the person speaking these words is angry, in a constant state of angst, or confused. The look on their face tells the story. The tone of their voice sounds like a cry for help. This is not the person I knew. It is not hard for me to understand how an Alzheimer's caregiver might come to this conclusion. Alzheimer's disease is difficult to understand, hard to accept, and is... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3023392 Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:53:31 +0100 3023392 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3023394&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FtSFGN-Is_Gc%2Ftoo-many-are-exhibiting-signs-of.html I meet families on a regular basis, and met with thousands throughout my career. I am still surprised to meet with families who suspect their loved one has Alzheimer’s, yet have not had a comprehensive evaluation for an accurate diagnosis.... By Angil Tarach Alzheimer's Reading Room Bob DeMarco and I have both written articles on causes of dementia. What we have reported is there are reversible and irreversible causes of dementia. Unless a person has a comprehensive evaluation by a geriatric specialist, you don’t know if the dementia is reversible. Worse, you cannot be certain that the diagnosis is correct or accurate. Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email As some of you know, I have 2 chronic incurable illnesses, Sjogren’s Syndrome, and Chronic Fatigue Immune ... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3023394 Mon, 23 Nov 2009 19:15:31 +0100 3023394 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3017213&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FCfp1qrubiuA%2Falzheimers-caregivers-overlooked-by.html Most Alzheimer's caregivers and advocates are frustrated by the lack of attention and resources being dedicated to Alzheimer's..... A recent Harris Interactive poll indicates that 100 million Americans are touched by Alzheimer's and another 33 million are worried about getting Alzheimer's. These numbers are likely to grow as the population ages. Alzheimer's often results in a slow torturous death. It is not well known that once Alzheimer's strikes it is likely to be a decade or more before the disease results in death. This torture is not limited to the person suffering from Alzheimer's but also overwhelms caregivers and families. The job of caregiver is one of endless struggle, and those who work with Alzheimer's caregivers say it is a struggle that is too often ignored by policy-maker... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3017213 Sun, 22 Nov 2009 14:00:28 +0100 3017213 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3015452&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FIthK7Zjk0yQ%2Fmy-alzheimers-awareness-television-ad.html Mi sento agitata.... Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor I'm feeling agitated. This is when my stomach starts bothering me. I am also suffering from a case of deja vu. Yesterday I published an article -- Study of aging in Group Health patients aims to prevent dementia, including Alzheimer's -- and the following words are stuck in my mind. When older people cannot walk except very slowly, this predicts that they are likely to become "frail" (weak and prone to diseases) and develop dementia. This reminds me of when I first noticed my mother was scrapping her feet on the ground. A sound that was so disconcerting it had me worried. My sister Joanne also noticed the sound. I asked everyone, what do you think? They all said the same thing -- she's getting old. Subscribe to The Alzhe... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3015452 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:26:00 +0100 3015452 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3008379&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FMqtQH6w9mAE%2Furinary-incontinence-how-we-beat.html We are on a three day roll. No pee pee. No pee pee pajamas. No pee pee underwear. No pee pee pants......Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor My mother suffered from urinary incontinence long before I moved to Delray Beach to take care of her. My sister Joanne was the first to notice the problem -- 8 or 9 years ago. Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email ________________________________ Urinary Incontinence (UI) is a stigmatized, underreported, under-diagnosed, under-treated condition that is erroneously thought to be a normal part of aging. One-third of men and women ages 30-70 believe that incontinence is a part of aging (National Institute of Health, NIH). You could put everything I knew about urinary incontinence in a thimble before I started to focus on this... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3008379 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:02:59 +0100 3008379 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3004072&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fv%2FdRlQXZeMUcg%26amp%3Bhl%3Den_US%26amp%3Bfs%3D1%26amp%3B Many families caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s hire caregiver’s and homecare agencies to provide respite or continuous care. You need to be certain that your loved one will be safe and receives the proper care.....By Angil Tarach Alzheimer's Reading Room I cannot emphasize how important it is to know who is coming into your home. Assist Guide Information Services (AGIS) published an article last year entitled Beware of Former Prisoner's Caring for Your Parents The article talks about prison guards advising soon-to-be released convicts that caregiving is an easy to get employment opportunity. You need to know and understand that many individuals advertising as caregiver’s have been fired from agencies for poor conduct, theft, and other work related problems. With some exp... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3004072 Tue, 17 Nov 2009 21:21:34 +0100 3004072 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3004109&cid=t_299694_155_f&fid=38409&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneuropathologyblog.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F11%2Ffinally-simple-cartoon-depicting.html In our teaching and in our autopsy reports, we neuropathologists often make reference to the transentorhinal cortex as it is -- in the Braak and Braak staging system -- the region where the earliest Alzheimer pathology appears. I have found it difficult to find a clear illustration of the anatomic location of the transentorhinal cortex in texts or on the internet. However, I came across a nice cartoon of the divisions of the parahippocampal gyrus, including the transentorhinal cortex, in an online presentation by Prof. Jillian Kril of the Pathology Department at the University of Sydney, NSW. Prof. Kril kindly emailed me a copy of the illustration, which is depicted above with the addition of a label for the presubiculum.  Feel free to use this cartoon for teaching purposes with the f... neuropathology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3004109 Tue, 17 Nov 2009 19:05:00 +0100 3004109 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2996008&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FcTE0xKwFpXo%2Fmetamorphosis-of-this-alzheimers_16.html Once I entered Alzheimer's world I did learn something fascinating -- my mother is full of feelings and emotion. I learned that I could connect with her....My name is Bob DeMaro, I am an Alzheimer's Caregiver. My mother Dorothy, now 93 years old, suffers from Alzheimer's disease. We live our life one day at at time. Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor This is not a lament. A lament is an expression of regret or grief. Honestly, I don't have any regrets when it comes to caring for my mother. However, I often wish. I wish I had known more about Alzheimer's when the diagnosis came in. I wish I knew what to do from day one. I wish.... _____________________________ I now know there are lots of things I could have done to improve the quality of life of my mother. I could have foc... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2996008 Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:18:28 +0100 2996008 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2995537&cid=t_299694_146_f&fid=38266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsleepeducation.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F11%2Fdeep-sleep-alzheimers-cpap-osa.html A new study examined the effect of CPAP therapy on sleep in people with obstructive sleep apnea and Alzheimer’s disease.The study involved 52 adults with OSA and Alzheimer’s disease; they had an average age of 78 years. The effect of CPAP therapy was compared with fake, placebo CPAP. Sleep was measured by overnight sleep study.Results show that even one night of CPAP therapy had a positive effect on sleep. People in the CPAP group had a lower percentage of stage 1 sleep than the placebo group; they also had a higher percentage of stage 2 sleep.The AASM reports that stage 1 sleep tends to occur when you first fall asleep and after awakenings during the night. This sleep is very light; a slight sound can wake you up.It is not as easy to wake you up during stage 2 sleep. During this sleep... Sleep Education blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2995537 Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:16:00 +0100 2995537 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2996010&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Funcnews.unc.edu%2Fimages%2Fstories%2Fnews%2Fhealth%2F2008%2Fdrugslist.pdf Falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries for adults sixty-five and older, and research suggests that those taking four or more medications are at an even greater risk than those who don’t—perhaps two to three times greater. -- Susan Blalock, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy.....Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor I am always worried that my mother might fall and injure herself -- or worse. Research studies indicate that falling is a leading cause of injury deaths for people 65 and older -- see Falls Among Older Adults: An Overview. More than one third of adults 65 and older fall each year in the United States Twenty percent to 30% of people who fall suffer moderate to severe injuries such as bruises, hip fractures, or head traumas. Men are more likel... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2996010 Sun, 15 Nov 2009 17:37:51 +0100 2996010 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2985005&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FMdJkL08g5Jw%2Falzheimers-caregiver-lament-i-cant-take.html The positive effects of socialization, initiative, and motivation on the part of Alzheimer's sufferers and their caregiver should not be overlooked. I believe these are as important as the medication...... My name is Bob DeMarco, I am an Alzheimer's caregiver. My mother Dorothy, now 93 years old, suffers from Alzheimer's disease. We live our life one day at a time. Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's... Comments, feedback, additional advice welcome. (Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The) Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2985005 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:27:42 +0100 2985005 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2981337&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FMdJkL08g5Jw%2Falzheimers-caregiver-lament-i-cant-take.html The positive effects of socialization, initiative, and motivation on the part of Alzheimer's sufferers and their caregiver should not be overlooked. I believe these are as important as the medication...... My name is Bob DeMarco, I am an Alzheimer's caregiver. My mother Dorothy, now 93 years old, suffers from Alzheimer's disease. We live our life one day at a time. Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor I can't tell you how many times I either heard or read these words -- I can't take him/her out because she eats with her hands. I know this -- it is a big problem among Alzheimer's caregivers. To be honest, I never worried about this. My attitude more or less is -- so be it. I am not the kind of person that wants to give someone else we are around in public a bad day. In others ... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2981337 Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:06:18 +0100 2981337 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2974188&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FCiTX7n0-7ic%2Fvalidation-breakthrough-techniques-for.html If you live with or care for someone with Alzheimer's or dementia, you should consider reading this book. The Validation Breakthrough will help you understand why Alzheimer's sufferers say what they say and do what they do. This book helps you understand communication that is often difficult to accept and hard to interpret. You might get the impression from the title that this book is only for professionals -- this is not the case. The case studies provide you with specific situations that you are sure to encounter. I believe everyone involved with elderly parents suffering from dementia or Alzheimer's can benefit from reading this book. You can reduce stress by learning and using some of these techniques. The Validation Breakthrough: Simple Techniques for Communicating with People ... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2974188 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 05:30:30 +0100 2974188 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2972035&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FDiSGcTTwX7A%2Finsurance-company-requires-proof-for.html The insurance company wants proof from the doctor each time I call in the prescription... Our reader Lisa described this problem in the comments section under the article -- The Combination of Aricept and Namenda Helps Slow the Rate of Decline in Alzheimer's Patients: My father is taking Namenda twice a day and aricept at night. However, his insurance company balks each time I try to get the Aricept refilled. First of all, I can only get 20 days worth at a time filled...then the insurance company wants proof from the doctor each time I call in the perscrption--proof that he really needs it and the Namenda together. The doctor makes at least two calls to the insurance company before we get approval...this happens each refill. There was a lag time this last time as my father spent some tim... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2972035 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 18:52:27 +0100 2972035 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2967502&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2Ft4e8_fWRkdk%2Falzheimers-common-in-children-of.html Our study shows that high blood pressure and an innate pro-inflammatory cytokine response in middle age significantly contributers to Alzheimer's disease. As these risk factors cluster in families, it is important to realize that early interventions could prevent late-onset Alzheimer's disease. One could argue for a high-risk prevention strategy by identifying the offspring of patients with Alzheimer's disease, screening them for hypertension and vascular factors and implementing various non-pharmacological health measures.Source Vascular Factors and Markers of Inflammation in Offspring With a Parental History of Late-Onset Alzheimer Disease -- Archives of General Psychiatry Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email In addition... The APOEε4 genotype was more common among ... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2967502 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:57:27 +0100 2967502 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2954766&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FMt8j8Grc20M%2Fworried-about-alzheimers-five-ways-to.html It's really critical that we find ways to prevent, or at least delay the onset of, cognitive decline. --Neil Buckholtz, U.S. National Institute on Aging's Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI)..... Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor Physical Activity -- Exercise Consider exercises that pump oxygen and blood to the brain. These include running, walking, bicycling. There are at least 18 research studies showing that exercise can improve memory in people suffering from Alzheimer's disease. Better yet, start exercising now to improve cognitive function. To read Worried About Alzheimer's? Tip #1 Exercise go here. Control your Weight The heavier a person is, the more likely they are to develop Alzheimer's. Scientist found that the brains of older individuals who wer... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2954766 Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:46:25 +0100 2954766 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2954645&cid=t_299694_122_f&fid=35056&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.renegadeneurologist.com%2Fdr-perlmutter-to-address-first-international-alzheimers-symposium-in-monaco%2F I am greatly honored to be invited to address the First International Congress on Alzheimer’s in Monaco under the Patronage of HRH Prince Albert II of Monaco. Here is a letter from the president of the organization: Despite the Billions of dollars spent annually to cure this disease, Alzheimer’s claims over 1 in 10 people over the age of 65 and represents a growing threat in the backdrop of an aging population. In fact, it is expected to claim over half of the people over 85 in coming years. Coincidentally, the past twenty years have seen substantial advances in the Neurosciences and allied fi elds. These major contributions, from the discovery of human stem cells in areas affected by Alzheimer’s to the sequencing of the Human Genome, have given rise to new tools, which are ripe ... Renegade Neurologist - A Blog by David Perlmutter, MD, FACN blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2954645 Tue, 03 Nov 2009 12:30:44 +0100 2954645 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2954768&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fv%2Fg4YvC-Ya874%26hl%3Den%26fs%3D1%26 Loss weight, improve balance, smile..... I wrote previously about the importance of exercise to help ward off Alzheimer's, dementia, heart disease, diabetes, and high LDL cholestrol. This time I am going to address a great form of exercise and marry this to improving balance. My mother Dorothy, now 93 years old, suffers from Alzheimer's disease. When I first moved to Delray Beach to take care of her, six years ago, she was falling down all the time. Shortly after I came on the scene she fell and broke her finger. I am proud to say, my mother has not fallen once in almost six years. She is not on a walker, even though most people tell me she should be, and she lost about 18 pounds over the same time frame. The first thing I did was take my mother into a gym and put her on a treadmill. T... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2954768 Mon, 02 Nov 2009 18:04:20 +0100 2954768 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2948466&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2Fi_iQbwCKbog%2Fquote-of-day-life.html Life is a comedy for those who think... and a tragedy for those who feel. --Horace Walpole _________________________________________ And, a bowl of cherries for those that do both. --Bob DeMarco _________________________________________ I also find myself thinking this since I wrote the article -- Where is the Alzheimer's Association? _________________________________________ It doesn't matter whether they love you or hate you, as long as they love you or hate you. I really don't know who said that first, maybe Howard Stern. Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email Popular articles on the Alzheimer's Reading Room Worried About Alzheimer's? The Holy Grail of Exercise The Metamorphosis of This Alzheimer's Caregiver (Part One) Test Your Memory (TYM) for Alzheimer's or De... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2948466 Sat, 31 Oct 2009 18:11:42 +0100 2948466 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2947109&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F9WYp0zBVmhU%2Falzheimers-association-response.html We strive to be a resource that individuals and caregivers affected by Alzheimer’s can turn to whenever they need help. Our national offices in Chicago and Washington, D. C. work in conjunction with chapter affiliates across the country to serve the needs of those who are impacted by Alzheimer’s...... Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email Greater Reading Room Community, First, thanks for your comments and for the opportunity to outline some of our programs and services. The Alzheimer’s Association is committed to providing families with information and support, and we want to hear your feedback. To reach me directly, e-mail info@alz.org and include ATTENTION BETH KALLMYER in the subject line. I will personally respond to your comments and welcome your thoughts. We s... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2947109 Sat, 31 Oct 2009 14:49:52 +0100 2947109 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2947110&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FN0hCtZK0apU%2Fwhere-is-alzheimers-association.html ..... My name is Bob DeMarco, I am an Alzheimer's caregiver. My mother Dorothy, now 93 years old, suffers from Alzheimer's disease. We live our life one day at a time. Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor Where is the Alzheimer's Association? As far as I can tell, the Alzheimer's Reading Room has six subscribers from the Alzheimer's Association. I am sitting here wondering why we don't have more?. I believe the Alzheimer's Reading Room is accomplishing its core mission -- to bring high quality insight and advice to Alzheimer's caregivers, the families of caregivers, and people in the industry that have hands on experience with Alzheimer's. The content on this site is frequently syndicated on to the online websites of the Chicago Sun Times, Atlanta Journal Constitution, Palm B... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2947110 Fri, 30 Oct 2009 20:28:33 +0100 2947110 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2944063&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FzEfzKD78Kes%2Fh1n1-flu-virus-everything-you-need-to.html H1N1 Flu virus activity is now widespread in 46 states. Nationwide, visits to doctors for influenza-like-illness are increasing sharply, and are now higher than what is usually seen at the peak of the flu seasons....... Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor The 2009 H1N1 (Swine Flu) is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. This new virus was first detected in the United States in April 2009. This virus is spreading from person-to-person worldwide, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread. On June 11, 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) signaled that a pandemic of 2009 H1N1 flu was underway. Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email Almost all of the influenza viruses identified so far are 2009 H1N1 influenza A viruses... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2944063 Fri, 30 Oct 2009 15:34:23 +0100 2944063 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2939529&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FKz-NThGGiGA%2Falzheimers-or-dementia-get-thyroid.html I wish I could shout this from the mountain top: when Alzheimer's or dementia present, get the thyroid checked.......Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor Yesterday I was reminded of our good fortune after I read an article about hypothyroidism and Alzheimer's disease. What happened? During the television show Everybody Loves Raymond my mother started laughing. Later in the day it got even better. I had the World series on television and when they started singing the National Anthem-- my mother started singing along. Incredible. Why is this incredible? For over two years before we discovered that my mother was suffering from a sluggish thyroid -- she did not laugh or smile. Not once. I am sure you can imagine how disconcerting this was to me. It hurt. Subscribe to The Alzheime... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2939529 Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:40:42 +0100 2939529 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2934929&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FevndrBnSZSI%2Falzheimers-wandering-mrs-j-no-longer.html For those who were interested in and commented on my story about Mrs. J, the problem appears to be solved. Rose Lamatt Alzheimer's Reading Room If you missed the previous stories they are listed below. Mrs. J is an elderly woman, suffering from Alzheimer's disease, who was out and wandering the streets of our town without supervision or assistance. What if Mrs. J Wanders Away and Ends Up Dead? Mrs. J Might Wander But Now Someone is Watching Rose is Betwixt and Between over Mrs J--Mrs. J’s out wandering again I learned this morning that Mrs. J. was removed from her home by the Department of Children and Families and moved to a care facility. A court hearing will take place to decide where Mrs. J. will live in the future. It has become very apparent that she cannot be left alone a... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2934929 Wed, 28 Oct 2009 13:35:11 +0100 2934929 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2934930&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FnDkwGn9oZpQ%2Fworried-about-alzheimers-yoga-for-your.html Exercising your face tightens and tones muscles. It also combats aging and reduces stress........... By Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor There are a long list of scientific articles that indicate exercise reduces the risk of Alzheimer's, dementia, heart disease, diabetes, and lowers LDL cholesterol. You might chuckle when you see the yoga exercises for you face. They work. Free Your Tongue It is recommended that you hold this pose for 60 seconds. It is good if your eyes water; that flushes the toxins that may have accumulated there. Lion Face Inhale through your nose, make fists and squeeze all your facial muscles... Surprise Me! Widen your eyes, as though surprised, but try not to wrinkle the brow. Focus on a point in front of you for about five to ten seconds. Then... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2934930 Tue, 27 Oct 2009 18:48:21 +0100 2934930 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2931270&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FKalM5Bb2mI4%2Fdoes-ellen-degeneres-know-about-plight.html Wondering about Ellen Degeneres My name is Bob DeMarco, I am an Alzheimer's caregiver. My mother Dorothy, now 93 years old, suffers from Alzheimer's disease. We live our life one day at a time. Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor Every day at 11 AM I turn on the Ellen Degeneres Show for my mother to watch. Prior to my life as an Alzheimer's caregiver I had never seen the show. I turn the show on because it makes my mother smile and sometimes laugh. If you are living in the front row of Alzheimer's like I am -- you now how important this is. My mother really perks up when Ellen dances (so do I). She especially likes when Ellen has kids on the show. Unlike other shows that are on during the day, the Ellen Degeneres show is very positive. It is my belief that Alzheimer's caregiv... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2931270 Mon, 26 Oct 2009 20:51:45 +0100 2931270 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2924945&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2Fo6lU6RU0lCA%2Frember.html The Alzheimer's Reading Room receives visitors to this site every day from people that are searching the Google key word -- Rember. What is Rember? Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor Rember is supposedly a new version of an existing chemical substance, methylene blue, but modified to be used as a drug for the treatment and prevention of Alzheimer’s. The news on Rember was released at the International Conference on Alzheimer's Disease (ICAD) in 2008. It created a tidal wave of press and news on television when the company made this claim: Research findings point to a new treatment that appears to slow the progress of Alzheimer's by 81% over a year. The product - Rember - is the first drug to act to arrest the progression of Alzheimer's disease by targeting the tangles whi... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2924945 Sun, 25 Oct 2009 15:38:40 +0100 2924945 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2902948&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FAxp_AN91rug%2Fwhat-is-vascular-dementia.html Vascular dementia is a degenerative cerebrovascular disease that leads to a progressive decline in memory and cognitive functioning. It occurs when the blood supply carrying oxygen and nutrients to the brain is interrupted by a blocked or diseased vascular system. Vascular dementia generally affects people between the ages of 60 and 75.By Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor Vascular dementia is considered the second most common type of dementia. Vascular dementia occurs when blood vessels in the brain narrow, reducing the amount of blood flowing to the brain. In some cases, a blood vessel may be completely blocked, causing a stroke and vascular dementia. However, not all strokes cause vascular dementia. The severity of the stroke and the location are the most important factors.... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2902948 Sun, 18 Oct 2009 04:41:03 +0100 2902948 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2883194&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcnettv.cnet.com%2Fav%2Fvideo%2Fcbsnews%2Fatlantis2%2Fplayer-dest.swf By Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor You might be wondering what this story is doing on the Alzheimer's Reading Room? A recent Harris Interactive poll found that more than 100 million Americans have been touched by Alzheimer's. The same poll found that more than 33 million Americans fear Alzheimer's. A week ago I wrote this article -- The NFLs Dirty Little Secret--Early Onset Alzheimer's at a Young Age. In that research study researchers found that 6.1 percent of players age 50 and above reported that they had received a dementia-related diagnosis, five times higher than the national average, 1.2 percent.Now this 60 minutes report -- A Blow To The Brain -- indicates that head trauma can lead to dementia. Parents, friends, and family of football players might want to take a ... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2883194 Mon, 12 Oct 2009 01:40:40 +0100 2883194 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2862627&cid=t_299694_122_f&fid=35055&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsarasotaneurology.com%2F2009%2F10%2F04%2Fcaffeine-natures-own-wonder-drug%2F Much has been said and written about caffeine over the past half century. There have been over 20,000 studies conducted looking at the various effects and benefits of caffeine over this period of time. Numerous studies have demonstrated the tremendous health benefits that can be derived from regular daily consumption of caffeine, most commonly delivered through the consumption of coffee or energy drinks such as Red Bull or similar beveragage. All of these have a high caffeine content.  In almost any way that caffeine is consumed, there are certain health benefits that it delivers. Despite all the negative press that has been attributed to caffeine, there has never been a study that has shown that caffeine has long term negative health effects, quite the contrary. The vast majority ... Sarasota Neurology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2862627 Sun, 04 Oct 2009 19:36:58 +0100 2862627 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2852027&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Fumich.edu%2Fnews%2FReleases%2F2009%2FSep09%2FFinalReport.pdf Should the families of football players at the high school, college, and professional level be worried about Alzheimer's and dementia. Yesterday I wrote about a new report that indicated retired National Football League players suffer from early onset Alzheimer's and dementia at an alarming rate. A study commissioned by the National Football League found that Alzheimer's disease or mild cognitive impairment is appearing in the league's former players at an alarming rate -- 19 times the normal rate for men ages 30 through 49.The study was conducted for the National Football League (NFL) by the University of Michigan’s Institute for Social Research. The Michigan researchers found that 6.1 percent of players age 50 and above reported that they had received a dementia-related diagnosis, fi... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2852027 Thu, 01 Oct 2009 17:02:46 +0100 2852027 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2851967&cid=t_299694_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2F4lh20j6D4h4%2F A good eight hours of sleep really does our life good, well into the twilight years! A new study has found that sleep abnormalities in midlife may be linked to the onset of Alzheimer’s later in life. Chronic sleep abnormalities include  insomnia, late-night habits, sleep deprivation and irregular sleep habits. Alzheimer’s is triggered as the peptide amyloid-beta transforms into plaque in the brain’s fluid, and amyloid-beta naturally increases during the day and decreases at night. Published in Science Express, neurologist Jae-Eun Kang and her colleagues found, in both men and mice, that concentrations of amyloid-beta increases during periods of sleep deprivation. When the researchers kept mice awake for an extra 6 hours, the levels of amyloid-beta spiked. So the scientists are ... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2851967 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 22:13:00 +0100 2851967 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2846601&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FVTjXRoSANmM%2Falzheimers-reading-room-in-news.html As many of you know, I followed the Elley Lorey Alzheimer's murder trial closely. The trial took place about 17 miles from me in West Palm Beach. Susan Spencer-Wendel, the Palm Beach Post, called me after the trial to get my reaction (tip of the hat to Susan). Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email 'Shock and disgust' the overwhelming reaction among caregivers to West Boca Alzheimer's death case By SUSAN SPENCER-WENDEL Palm Beach Post Staff Writer Saturday, September 26, 2009 Bob Demarco has his finger square on the pulse of the ever-growing community of... This is a content summary. Click on the headline to view the complete version of this article. Did you share an article this week? (Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The) Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2846601 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 16:37:55 +0100 2846601 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2842768&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FXExOnyJFjEE%2Fi-have-alzheimers-and-i-refuse-to-stop.html But then, as I looked down I did a double take; noticing there was the usual leash loop sensibly tightly secured in the usual place on my left wrist. But to my horror the remainder length of the leash was dangling SOLO in the breeze. And no animal attached!! Fearing the worst, I did a quick eyeball once-over on the block. My heart raced and I feared the worst like any parent would do. Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email Originally published at Early OnSet Alzheimers. By Patrice I have Alzheimer’s and I refuse to stop laughing! I wrote the above caption with all respect and love to anyone whose life has been impacted in any form, by Alzheimer’s. The caption is because I see humor in everything, even in the bad stuff, and praise God I just can’t stop it!! Humor i... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2842768 Tue, 29 Sep 2009 02:17:40 +0100 2842768 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2832377&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhealth.usnews.com%2Farticles%2Fhealth%2Fhealthday%2F2009%2F09%2F23%2Fpreventing-second-stroke-may-stave-off-dementia.html Money problems 'signal dementia' Declining financial skills are detectable in patients in the year before they develop Alzheimer's, according to US researchers. "The findings do suggest that a decrease in specific money skills could indicate a progression towards Alzheimer's, and this is something doctors could take into account when monitoring patients."--Rebecca Wood [Editor note: I now believe that if I had known this, I would have known my mother was suffering from mild cognitive impairment. I believe this is one of the earliest signs of Dementia and Alzheimer's.] To continue reading go here. Preventing Second Stroke May Stave Off Dementia Two major findings emerged from an analysis of 30 previous studies that involved more than 7,500 people who had suffered a stroke, said Dr. Sarah... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2832377 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 16:37:52 +0100 2832377 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831884&cid=t_299694_146_f&fid=38266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsleepeducation.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F09%2Fsleep-loss-alzheimers-disease.html A new study provides some of the first indications that chronic sleep loss could play a role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease.The researchers analyzed the levels of “amyloid beta” in the brains of mice. Amyloid beta is a protein fragment.The study reports that the accumulation of amyloid beta in the brain is a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease; the mice in the study were genetically engineered to develop the disease.Results show that brain amyloid beta levels correlated with wakefulness. Levels increased at night when the mice were mostly awake; they decreased during the day when the mice were mostly asleep.The study also found that brain amyloid beta levels increased during chronic sleep deprivation; mice that stayed awake longer had levels that were 25 percent higher.“We m... Sleep Education blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831884 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 16:21:00 +0100 2831884 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2832378&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FiYwyMRVIoVc%2Frose-is-betwixt-and-between-over-mrs-j.html Rose Lamatt is trying as hard as he can to make sure Mrs J--the Wanderer--receives the care she needs. But now, she is frustated because the grandson doesn't really care. I wrote the other day that I am a goal oriented guy. I am also a problem solver. Sometimes the first or second solution to a problem doesn't work. What is important is finding an effective solution to the problem. I'll put my potential solution in the comments box. By Rose Lamatt So now what? Is this called passing the buck, or what? Please tell me, how can we depend on government services when this sort of thing happens? Who is in charge of this fiasco? Who is responsible? The family? Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email After my good feelings that Children and Families were going to watch over Mrs. J.... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2832378 Thu, 24 Sep 2009 22:47:16 +0100 2832378 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2828438&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FQKyXwN78HfU%2Fmrs-j-might-wander-but-now-someone-is.html First, I want to thank those who posted comments below my article about Mrs. J. I truly appreciate you effort and kindness. I believe if a community like this one can get together, surely it can happen in our own neighborhoods. I felt the pastor speaking to me last Sunday, and knew I had to follow the direction I was being led—which I did, with your help. Thank you. Following is an update of what has transpired since I wrote the article about Mrs. J. By Rose Lamatt Previously--What if Mrs. J Wanders Away and Ends Up Dead? First, I called the Alzheimer’s Association, where I heard a recording telling me to leave my name and number. Later when called back, I told the volunteer what we had noticed about Mrs. J’s behavior, and thought something should be done. She told me the Asso... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2828438 Wed, 23 Sep 2009 23:50:03 +0100 2828438 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2820566&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FPdIeAvN13Mo%2Fwhat-if-mrs-j-wanders-away-and-ends-up.html Rose Lamatt lived the life of an Alzheimer's caregiver for 14 years. She has witnessed Alzheimer's behaviors from every angle (see Bio below). With her eyes wide open, she is now a concerned on-looker that feels compelled to take action. She is seeking direct help or advice. Please take the time to read her article and respond. I’m worried that Mrs. J. is going to get lost in the woods, or something worse might happen to her.Subscribe to The... This is content only summary. Please click on the headline to view the full content version on the website. Your comments are welcome and wanted (Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The) Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2820566 Tue, 22 Sep 2009 15:40:25 +0100 2820566 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2820393&cid=t_299694_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FNuBN9AZtaQ8%2F Researchers from the University of Alabama have found that a person who was able to handle money earlier in life and who begins making poor money decisions and has become unable to handle transactions may be heading towards Alzheimer’s disease. Their study wasn’t a large one (only 163 people) but it could be a good indicator of what other things to look for as well if further studies back up these findings. Of the 163 people, 87 had mild cognitive impairment (mild memory loss or ability to do calculations or mental tasks) and 76 people who showed no signs of memory problems. The researchers looked to see who the participants used a bank statement, balanced a checkbook, paid bills, and counted money. According to the findings, which were published in the Sept. 22 edition of the ... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2820393 Mon, 21 Sep 2009 22:54:46 +0100 2820393 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2814675&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F8N9LphoIlmM%2F35-million-people-around-world-living.html The Alzheimer's Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's disease. Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email Today is World Alzheimer's Day and we're working to raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease and rally friends like you around the globe. I know I often write you with updates, offers and requests for funds. Today I am writing you with a very personal challenge. If you - a person dedicated to our vision of a world without Alzheimer's disease - can help us ra... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2814675 Mon, 21 Sep 2009 15:36:51 +0100 2814675 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2814391&cid=t_299694_87_f&fid=36224&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.wsjonline.com%2F%7Er%2Fwsj%2Fhealth%2Ffeed%2F%7E3%2F0UyFZ70O4Ok%2F The number of people living with memory-robbing Alzheimer’s disease grew 10% globally between 2005 and 2009 to 35 million, according to a report today by U.K.-based Alzheimer’s Disease International. And, mostly because people are living longer, this number is expected to continue climbing to 115.4 million in 2050, according to the report, which surveyed nations around the world. Some other countries, like the U.K., have a national Alzheimer’s plan in place, according to Harry Johns, the head of the Alzheimer’s Association, one of the members of ADI. The federal leadership in the U.S., however, has its “head in the sand,” Johns told us on a visit to Health Blog headquarters. Federal spending on research for Alzheimer’s in the U.S. is far lower tha... WSJ.com: Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2814391 Mon, 21 Sep 2009 14:38:41 +0100 2814391 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2814676&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FTYmPr-jVINg%2Fcelebrate-world-alzheimers-day.html September 21, is World Alzheimer's Day. Color me purple. World Alzheimer's Day is a day when Alzheimer's Associations and other organizations around the globe unite in an effort to raise awareness about the disease and its impact on our families, communities and nations. The theme for World Alzheimer's Day™ 2009 is 'Diagnosing Dementia: See It Sooner'. Alzheimer's is a sinister disease. Hard to spot, hard to diagnosis, and hard to deal with effectively. To my fellow Alzheimer's caregivers, I say congratulations, YOU ARE THE ONE. And, if not you, WHO? I admire and respect each and every Alzheimer's caregiver. I don't need to know you personally to say that with confidence. To those caregivers that came before us. Thank you. You are to be admired. Thank you for your advice, words of... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2814676 Mon, 21 Sep 2009 03:26:18 +0100 2814676 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2814557&cid=t_299694_122_f&fid=35055&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsarasotaneurology.com%2F2009%2F09%2F20%2Fcymbalta-savella-new-hope-for-fibromyalgia-patients%2F The FDA has approved two additional medications specifically for the treatment of fibromyalgia symptoms. The first drug to ever be approved for fibromyalgia treatment was Lyrica. Lyrica was developed as an anti-seizure medication and has FDA approval for this and treatment of painful diabetic neuropathy. Since its initial release, the FDA approved its use for symptomatic treatment of fibromyalgia. Cymbalta was the second drug to be FDA approved for the treatment of fibromyalgia. This has been a tremendous addition to treatment of this disabling condition. The most recent medication approved for FM treatment is Savella. Prior to the FDA approval of these three medications, there were no proven effective treatments for fibromyalgia. What is fibromyalgia? Fibromyalgia (FM) is a syndrome of di... Sarasota Neurology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2814557 Sun, 20 Sep 2009 23:55:25 +0100 2814557 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2812553&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2Fjamz9CqwGRs%2Fwhere-are-you-located-subscriber-survey.html The Alzheimer's Reading Room has subscribers from all over the World. I know many of you, but not most of you. I thought it would be interesting to find out where our subscribers are located. How many cities, states, and countries are represented here. Please list your location in the comments box under this article. You can provide your name, location, and a link back to your company, website, blog, or book. If you prefer, you can comment anonymously. Just put in the location. The real purpose is to get an idea of where our subscribers are located. Those reading via email, RSS reader, or via a syndicated feed will need to click on the headline to get to the website. Use the comments box below the article. Please take a moment to this. It won't take long--its easy. I appreciate yo... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2812553 Sun, 20 Sep 2009 16:51:45 +0100 2812553 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2803868&cid=t_299694_87_f&fid=36224&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.wsjonline.com%2F%7Er%2Fwsj%2Fhealth%2Ffeed%2F%7E3%2FT0SFKXIvpfw%2F Experts in Alzheimer’s care disagree about the value of widespread screening of older adults for memory problems and dementia conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. But in an overhaul of the health-care system, such screenings for cognitive impairment could be included — and paid for — as part of Medicare’s annual wellness visits. As part of a provision in the Baucus health bill unveiled yesterday, patients would first complete a health risk assessment that “would identify chronic diseases, modifiable risk factors and emergency or urgent health needs.” Within six months of the assessment, Medicare would pay for a visit to one’s primary care provider to develop a “personalized prevention plan,” which could include cognitive screenin... WSJ.com: Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2803868 Thu, 17 Sep 2009 16:07:37 +0100 2803868 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2804081&cid=t_299694_122_f&fid=35056&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.renegadeneurologist.com%2Fan-ounce-of-prevention%2F By David Perlmutter, MD,FACN, ABIHM What can we do to protect our brains? With the release of the 2009 report from the Alzheimer’s Association showing that 5.3 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease with a new case diagnosed every 70 seconds, more and more people want to know if there really are any meaningful preventive strategies for this devastating condition now costing $148 billion annually. Perhaps not so remarkable is the fact that many of the same lifestyle recommendations made to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease also apply to reducing risk for Alzheimer’s. Why this is not so surprising is because these two diseases are remarkably similar in that they both involve inflammation. This may explain why being overweight represents a significant risk for both diseases... Renegade Neurologist - A Blog by David Perlmutter, MD, FACN blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2804081 Thu, 17 Sep 2009 13:52:01 +0100 2804081 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2804093&cid=t_299694_125_f&fid=37825&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbibbynews.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F09%2F16%2Fseptember-21-is-world-alzheimers-day%2F Every year on September 21, Alzheimer’s Disease associations across the globe recognize World Alzheimer’s Day.  This year’s theme for World Alzheimer’s Day is ‘Diagnosing Dementia: See It Sooner’. Across the globe scientists are aiming to establish a link between oral health and Alzheimers.  For example, the British Dental Health Foundation received a grant to study [...] (Source: Bibby Library News and Tips) Bibby Library News and Tips blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2804093 Wed, 16 Sep 2009 20:27:44 +0100 2804093 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2800670&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FP4zGTcefd4k%2Fwhat-to-do-when-alzheimers-strikes.html @ALZHEIMERSread is a Twitter Feed which is the companion of the Alzheimer's Reading Room. I am now getting a few referrals each week asking me what to do when Alzheimer's strikes. I usually start with the following recommendations. Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email First, I would purchase these two books. 1. The Alzheimer's Action Plan: The Experts' Guide to the Best Diagnosis and Treatment for Memory Problems 2. The 36-Hour Day: A Family Guide to Caring for People with Alzheimer Disease, Dementia, and Memory Loss I am an Alzheimer's caregiver with six years experience and I still refer to these books often. I usually ask how the diagnosis was achieved. Did the sufferer receive an MRI and a series of test? It no longer surprises me that more often than not the answe... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2800670 Wed, 16 Sep 2009 13:32:22 +0100 2800670 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2796758&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FbF7AtIV0VZk%2Frockefeller-announces-groundbreaking.html The Blanchette Rockefeller Neurosciences Institutehas designed a unique program to intensify education and data collection aimed at physicians and other healthcare providers across West Virginia. The goal is to help physicians improve diagnosis and to insure their access to the latest in treatment of the disease. The program will also make certain that physicians and providers know how to connect families and caregivers to vital support networks in communities across the state."To help those battling memory disorders, we need to arm our entire network of health care providers and caregivers with the tools they need to diagnose, treat and care for them," said Senator Jay Rockefeller, founder of the Blanchette Rockefeller Neurosciences Institute at West Virginia University. "Through strong s... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2796758 Tue, 15 Sep 2009 18:32:37 +0100 2796758 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2789198&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FD3tnwxDlhw8%2Fhbo-star-michael-baden-no-evidence-of.html Dr. Michael Baden, a pathologist, expert witness, and host of HBO's series 'Autopsy' testified he found no evidence of physical abuse or neglect during his testimony at the Elly Lorey murder trial in West Palm Beach, Florida. Kirsten and Toby Fenn are accused of murdering Elly Lorey, an 89 year old woman who suffered from Alzheimer's disease. Kirsten Feen is Elly Lorey's daughter. Earlier in the trial, Dr. Michael Bell, Palm Beach County's medical examiner, testified that Elly Lorey died of starvation and dehydration and that her death was a homicide. Dr. Baden testified that: there's no evidence of physical abuse, that styrofoam found in her intestines is not evidence of neglect, and that, there is no evidence from a medical examiner point of view that anything would indicate somebody ... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2789198 Fri, 11 Sep 2009 20:09:36 +0100 2789198 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2786248&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2Fd6X8v92bu-4%2Fmost-important-alzheimers-decision-of.html My name is Bob DeMarco, I am an Alzheimer's caregiver. My mother Dorothy, now 93 years old, suffers from Alzheimer's disease. When Alzheimer's or dementia strikes you are likely to experience a feeling of hopelessness. The diagnosis often sends the caregiver into a tailspin that is impossible to describe. The rollercoaster ride of feelings, emotions, grief, and stress often paralyzes the caregiver. This all happens at time when you will be making one of the most important decisions you might ever make--identifying a competent personal care physician for you loved one. I want to say... This is a content summary. Comments welcome on the website. Click the headline to find the comments box under the article. (Source: Alzheimer's Reading Room, The) Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2786248 Thu, 10 Sep 2009 19:56:36 +0100 2786248 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2778668&cid=t_299694_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=2778512&cid=t_299694_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2FmCGnXwuMevw%2F What did you lose today? That’s what the Lost and Found Campaign is asking people. When someone logs on to their site and chooses the icon that matches something they lost or forgot about, the selection will trigger an Accera donation to Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA). Each donation will be $1. Think of all the money that could raise! The Lost and Found submissions will be accepted on-line through November 13. Log on to the Lost and Found Campaign (www.lostandfoundcampaign.com) to participate. The funds generated throughout this initiative will be donated to AFA on November 17, “National Memory Screening Day,” to further AFA’s efforts to support individuals with Alzheimer’s disease their families. Image: Accera Post fr... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2778512 Tue, 08 Sep 2009 22:44:18 +0100 2778512 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2774898&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FxhXZGpI5EZ4%2Fbob-demarco-editorcontributor.html Bob DeMarco is the editor of the Alzheimer's Reading Room and an Alzheimer's caregiver. The Alzheimer's Reading Room is the number one website on the Internet for news, advice, and insight into Alzheimer's disease. Bob has written more than 800 articles with more than 18,000 links on the Internet. Bob resides in Delray Beach, FL. My name is Bob DeMarco, I am an Alzheimer's caregiver. My mother Dorothy, now 93 years old, suffers from Alzheimer's disease. Bob is a citizen journalist, and editor of the Alzheimer's Reading Room. He also edits and writes on several caregiving, investment, and information blogs. Prior to moving to Delray Beach, Florida to take care of his mother, Bob was CEO of a software development and marketing company based in Reston, Va. Bob worked in several Wall Stree... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2774898 Tue, 08 Sep 2009 00:22:11 +0100 2774898 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2768820&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F7fkBTencJ0c%2Fdementia-and-eight-types-of-dementia.html Dementia is a clinical syndrome that includes loss or decline in memory and other cognitive abilities. Dementia is caused by various diseases and conditions that result in damaged brain cells. Brain cells can be destroyed by brain diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, or strokes (called vascular or multi-infarct dementia), which decrease blood flow to the brain. Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia. Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email Dementia can be caused by any of the following: AIDS, high fever, dehydration, hydrocephalus, systemic lupus erythematosus, Lyme disease, long-term drug or alcohol abuse, vitamin deficiencies, poor nutrition, hypothyroidism or hypercalcemia, multiple sclerosis, brain tumor. Dementia can also result from a head... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2768820 Sat, 05 Sep 2009 17:05:04 +0100 2768820 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2766281&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.alzheimers.org.nz%2Fassets%2FNewsletter%2FAlzheimers-News-September-2009-low-res-copy-for-web.pdf Me? Not yet. But, The Alzheimer's Reading Room made it into the Alzheimer's News--New Zealand. The Alzheimer's News is a quarterly publication of Alzheimer's New Zealand (ANZ). Alzheimer's New Zealand is a charitable organisation with 23 Alzheimers member organisations located throughout the country. ANZ has a very good newsletter that is full of helpful insights and advice. The News published an edited version of one my tips on Alzheimer's communication. This reminded that I received 14 emails about my Forehead technique. Some of the readers were a bit frustrated that it didn't work effectively immediately. I now realize I should have done a better job describing the technique, and offered a more complete description--expect that soon. It didn't work for me right away either. I will ... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2766281 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 17:08:04 +0100 2766281 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765991&cid=t_299694_87_f&fid=36224&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.wsjonline.com%2F%7Er%2Fwsj%2Fhealth%2Ffeed%2F%7E3%2FlUMob9evlDw%2F The clock is ticking for Elan and Johnson & Johnson after a federal judge in New York yesterday ruled that the companies have until Sept. 26 to revamp a deal involving the multiple sclerosis treatment Tysabri or Elan runs the risk of losing all rights to the medicine. The dispute centers on J&J’s July agreement to buy 18.4% of Elan. That deal also gave J&J an option to finance the Irish biotech’s purchase of marketing rights to Tysabri held by Biogen Idec if Biogen were to be acquired at some point. Elan and Biogen co-market Tysabri, which generates nearly $1 billion in annual sales. Biogen cried foul, perhaps because, as we have noted, the prospect of J&J financing to buy Biogen’s rights to Tysabri might make the company less attractive to any potential s... WSJ.com: Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765991 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 14:46:47 +0100 2765991 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2745618&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FPAriqWPaeLI%2Fquote-of-day-august-26.html "If we can delay the onset of Alzheimer's by five years, by some estimates we can cut the incidence of Alzheimer's in half. If we can delay the disease by 10 years, we could almost eliminate it because people would die from other conditions first."--Stephen Rao, in the journal Neurology To read this TIME article go here. Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email Popular articles on the Alzheimer's Reading Room Alzheimer's Wandering Why it Happens and What to Do Does the Combination of Aricept and Namenda Help Slow the Rate of Decline in Alzheimer's Patients 10 Good Reasons to Subscribe to the Alzheimer's Reading Room Now Test Your Memory (TYM) for Alzheimer's or Dementia in Five Minutes World Health Care Spending and Performance Ranking by Country (Table) What is Dementia? Fiv... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2745618 Sat, 29 Aug 2009 17:35:20 +0100 2745618 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2737988&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FPAriqWPaeLI%2Fquote-of-day-august-26.html "If we can delay the onset of Alzheimer's by five years, by some estimates we can cut the incidence of Alzheimer's in half. If we can delay the disease by 10 years, we could almost eliminate it because people would die from other conditions first."--Stephen Rao, in the journal Neurology To read this TIME article go here. Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email Popular articles on the Alzheimer's Reading Room Alzheimer's Wandering Why it Happens and What to Do Does the Combination of Aricept and Namenda Help Slow the Rate of Decline in Alzheimer's Patients 10 Good Reasons to Subscribe to the Alzheimer's Reading Room Now Test Your Memory (TYM) for Alzheimer's or Dementia in Five Minutes World Health Care Spending and Performance Ranking by Country (Table) What is Dementia? Fiv... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2737988 Wed, 26 Aug 2009 23:41:01 +0100 2737988 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2734238&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FUbWOhlflbHI%2Fdoes-combination-of-aricept-and-namenda.html My name is Bob DeMarco, I am an Alzheimer's caregiver. My mother Dorothy, now 93 years old, suffers from Alzheimer's disease.A year ago, my mother's Alzheimer's disease started to worsen. As a result, I was both concerned and worried.At the same time, I read a new research study about the combination of Aricept and Namenda as a treatment for Alzheimer's disease. "The results of this study should change the way we treat patients with Alzheimer's disease. Cholinesterase inhibitors are approved for use in mild to moderate dementia, while memantine has been approved for advanced dementia. But it looks like there is an advantage in prescribing both drugs as initial treatment."--John Growdon, MDThe results of the research study indicated that the combination of Aricept and Namenda helped slow th... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2734238 Wed, 26 Aug 2009 14:12:32 +0100 2734238 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2734236&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FkgfJopUMawI%2F1011-thank-you-notes.html Today the Alzheimer's Reading Room passed 1,000 subscribers for the first time. If I could, I would write each and everyone of you a personal Thank You note. To those of you that have emailed me with your kind words, Thank You. To those of you who share a part of your life as a Caregiver with me, Thank You. To those of you that take the time to comment, and teach me so much, Thank You. Thank You. Bob Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading Room--via Email Popular articles on theAlzheimer's Reading Room Alzheimer's Wandering Why it Happens and What to Do Does the Combination of Aricept and Namenda Help Slow the Rate of Decline in Alzheimer's Patients10 Good Reasons to Subscribe to the Alzheimer's Reading Room NowTest Your Memory (TYM) for Alzheimer's or Dementia in Five Minutes World Hea... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2734236 Wed, 26 Aug 2009 13:58:05 +0100 2734236 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2727389&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FRy8xah8vO-M%2Falzheimers-and-dementia-simple-solution.html Sometimes it is best to find a simple solution to an ongoing problem.Have a simple solution to a problem? Tell us about it in the comments box below this article. Or better yet, write an article for the Alzheimer's Reading Room.Here are a few good examples.A Simple SolutionI've been taking care of my husband, John, who has dementia. John constantly misplaces his wallet and gets upset when he can't find it. I've tried to convince him that he doesn't need to carry a wallet anymore because I'm taking care of the bills and expenses, but this doesn't satisfy him.One day when John was getting quite agitated about his lost wallet and I couldn't find it anywhere, I came across an old wallet that had belonged to our son. I put a couple of dollars in the wallet and gave it to John -- and he was deli... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2727389 Sun, 23 Aug 2009 15:20:10 +0100 2727389 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2726965&cid=t_299694_139_f&fid=38879&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.rawvoice.com%2Fpmn_twiv%2Fwww.twiv.tv%2FTWiV046.mp3 Hosts: Vincent Racaniello and Dick Despommier In episode #46 of the podcast “This Week in Virology”, Vincent and Dick continue virology 101 with a discussion of virus entry into cells, then answer reader email on colony collapse disorder and viruses that confer a benefit to their host. Download TWiV #46 (35 MB .mp3, 50 minutes) Subscribe to TWiV in iTunes, by the RSS feed, or by email Links for this episode: Illustrations of virus entry into cells Nice reference for biological items (thanks Jim!) Colony collapse disorder: PBS program,  descriptive study, metagenomic study, genetic analysis (thanks Swiss compass!) Potato virus Y and Alzheimer’s disease (thanks Jennifer!) A virus in a fungus in a plant (thanks Jennifer!) Weekly Science Picks Vincent PLoS Pearls ... virology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2726965 Sun, 23 Aug 2009 15:12:34 +0100 2726965 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2725237&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FkoxNih9geb0%2Fis-alzheimers-everywhere.html My name is Bob DeMarco, I am an Alzheimer's caregiver. My mother Dorothy, now 93 years old, suffers from Alzheimer's.Is Alzheimer's everywhere?I don't get out much these days. But, I make an effort to take my mother out every Friday night. We always go to a place where we can easily interact with people. This is part of the effort to keep my mother socialized and in the "world".Last night, we went to Vic and Angelo's in downtown Delray Beach, Florida. A really fantastic venue. If you click on the image to the left, you'll hear a nice rendition of a song you might recognize.Usually I stand and my mother sits. Since I always have a smile on my face, people find it easy to approach and talk with me.Last night, I had a conversation with a woman and a man that were waiting to go inside (we were... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2725237 Sat, 22 Aug 2009 18:40:32 +0100 2725237 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2725238&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FbSSNH-wJQiw%2Fexercise-for-cognition-and-everyday.html I am writing about the clinical trial-- Exercise for Cognition and Everyday Living for Seniors With Memory Complaints (EXCEL) -- even though it is only available in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.The study caught my attention because they are testing an exercise program that is almost identical to what I decided to do with my mother when she was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. The researchers' proposed research aims to ascertain whether a six-month, twice-weekly aerobic training (AT) program and a six-month, twice-weekly resistance training (RT) program, compared with a six-month, twice-weekly stretch & relax (S & R; control) program, will significantly improve cognition and functional status in community-dwelling women with MCI aged 70 years and older.In my mother's case we use t... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2725238 Sat, 22 Aug 2009 15:26:20 +0100 2725238 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2724475&cid=t_299694_146_f&fid=38266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsleepeducation.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F08%2Fosa-cpap-alzheimers-disease.html A small study in the Aug. 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine involved 10 older adults with both obstructive sleep apnea and Alzheimer’s disease.They had an average age of 76 years and a moderate level of dementia. For six weeks they had used CPAP therapy to treat their OSA. Then five of the people continued using CPAP therapy for a year; the other five stopped using CPAP.Results show that sustained CPAP use produced long-term benefits. People who continued using CPAP remained stable or showed improvement on almost all measures; those who stopped using CPAP continued to deteriorate.Subjective sleep quality improved significantly in the CPAP group. Their depressive symptoms and daytime sleepiness also stabilized.The CPAP group also showed less cognitive decline. They showed... Sleep Education blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2724475 Sat, 22 Aug 2009 11:05:00 +0100 2724475 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2719944&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.myfoxtampabay.com%2Fvideo%2Fvideoplayer.swf What worries Ann Massengill and George Stone most about getting older is Alzheimer's disease."To me, that's the worst disease known to man-- including cancer and heart problems," he said. "You're robbing someone of their entire life... their entire memory from when they were a child to an adult."Advice and Insight into Alzheimer's diseaseSubscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading RoomThe Icara StudyStudy gives Alzheimer's patients hope"Some days you're not as sharp as other days, and that scares me," Ann added.Ann is part of an Alzheimer's study at St. Petersburg's Meridien Research .She's in the beginning stages. Meridien introduces George as her caregiver."No, I'm her roommate," he said. "I hate caregiver means that you've gone past the last stage that you're right there at the end. I'm her ro... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2719944 Thu, 20 Aug 2009 18:20:00 +0100 2719944 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2719945&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FMkF2kVoV1Tw%2Falzheimers-reading-room-820.html Some recent articles on Alzheimer's and dementia that might be of interest to you.Does Drinking Wine Daily Fight Alzheimer's?The polyphenols found in red wine are thought to help prevent Alzheimer's disease, according to a new research study conducted at Purdue University and Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Mario Ferruzzi, a Purdue associate professor of food science said, "It's like eating an apple a day, not a case of apples over two days every month."To read more go here.Special Cat Helps Alzheimer Patients Recapture MemoriesOne of the most popular visitors among the residents of the Nazareth Classic Care Community in Menlo Park, Calif., is a four-year old half Maine Coon, half Orange Tabby cat named Caju. Twice a month, this very affable feline makes his way around the long-term care f... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2719945 Thu, 20 Aug 2009 15:36:37 +0100 2719945 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2716204&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FUbWOhlflbHI%2Fdoes-combination-of-aricept-and-namenda.html My name is Bob DeMarco, I am an Alzheimer's caregiver. My mother Dorothy, now 93 years old, suffers from Alzheimer's disease.A year ago, my mother's Alzheimer's disease started to worsen. As a result, I was both concerned and worried.At the same time, I read a new research study about the combination of Aricept and Namenda as a treatment for Alzheimer's disease. "The results of this study should change the way we treat patients with Alzheimer's disease. Cholinesterase inhibitors are approved for use in mild to moderate dementia, while memantine has been approved for advanced dementia. But it looks like there is an advantage in prescribing both drugs as initial treatment."-->John GrowdonThe results of the research study indicated that the combination of Aricept and Namenda helped slow the r... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2716204 Thu, 20 Aug 2009 03:32:30 +0100 2716204 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2712332&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F7JhLArdtJKg%2Fcan-drinking-juice-delay-onset-of.html The answer appears to be, Yes.Researchers at the Group Health Center for Health Studies in Seattle, Washington following nearly 2,000 adults for 10 years found drinking fruit or vegetable juice cuts the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.Study participants who drank juice three times per week reduced their Alzheimer's risk by 76 percent. Study participants who drank juice once or twice a week reduced their Alzheimer's risk by 16 percent."The theory is that the brain accumulates damage due to oxidation as we age, and if you can protect the brain from that damage you can protect the person from Alzheimer's disease and other causes of dementia," said Eric Larson, MD.According to Dr. Larson, juice is made using parts of the fruit with the highest concentration of natural antioxidants.Advic... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2712332 Tue, 18 Aug 2009 13:35:17 +0100 2712332 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2712333&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FFqAPkwnoIR0%2Freader-seeks-advice-on-how-to-address.html One of our readers writes in and asked this question.How do I address with my Dad about going to the doctor as we believe we are seeing either the signs of dementia or alzheimer's in his behavior. He does not have a physican and does not go to the doctor.. but we (my family) have seen a progression in his behavior lately. Any advice would greatly be appreciated.There is at least one additional issue. This man lives in small town, and there are no specialists directly available to him.If you have a specific action plan, please include that advice in your comment.If you would like to ask our reader additional questions to better frame the issue/situation that is OK.Please use the comments box below this article to respond.For those of you reading via one of our subscription services, please ... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2712333 Mon, 17 Aug 2009 20:34:54 +0100 2712333 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2703944&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F6ZOpT0nWs14%2Fsenators-evan-bayh-steps-up-fight.html Earlier this week I posted, Senators Bayh, Martinez Step Up Fight Against Alzheimer’s Disease.If you would like to write a note to Senator Evan Bayh on his Facebook page go here.If you would like to email Senator Bayh go here.If you would like to contact your Senator concerning this legislation or Alzheimer's go here.If you would like to contact your U.S. Representative concerning this legislation or Alzheimer's go here.Unfortunatly, Senator Mel Martinez resigned this week.Advice and Insight into Alzheimer's diseaseSubscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading RoomMore from the Alzheimer's Reading RoomThe Alzheimer's Reading Room--Press ReleaseTest Your Memory (TYM) for Alzheimer's or Dementia in Five MinutesQuestions About Test Your Memory (TYM) for Alzheimers and DementiaDimebon Clinical Trial?... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2703944 Sat, 15 Aug 2009 15:18:02 +0100 2703944 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2699863&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FOi9O0KXcSVQ%2Fcombination-of-exercise-and.html This study is important because it shows that people may be able to alter their risk of developing Alzheimer’s by modifying their lifestyles through diet and exercise,” said Dr. Scarmeas.Dr. Scarmeas cautions, however, that this was an observational, epidemiological study – based on interviews with study subjects on their physical activity routines and dietary habits. Therefore, the associations were based on what subjects reported and no randomized interventions were done. Only a clinical trial type of design would offer additional information to help clarify the role of these behaviors and reveal other potential contributing factors.“We know that some part of Alzheimer’s is related to genetic changes and as time goes on we discover more and more of these changes. But it is also... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2699863 Thu, 13 Aug 2009 20:50:42 +0100 2699863 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2691459&cid=t_299694_87_f&fid=36224&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.wsjonline.com%2F%7Er%2Fwsj%2Fhealth%2Ffeed%2F%7E3%2Fvwp2BUgaCbA%2F There’s a lot of research about how the Mediterannean Diet is good for you in all kinds of ways. But does it fend off cognitive decline and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s? A study published a few years back suggested it does; two more studies, published today in JAMA return to the subject with conflicting results. In one study, researchers followed nearly 2,000 elderly people for who started off without cognitive impairment and found that those who adhered more closely to a Mediterannean diet — high in fruits and vegetables, some fish, a little wine and not too much meat — had less risk of developing the disease. Those who exercised frequently also exhibited a lower risk of Alzheimer’s compared to those who didn’t exercise at all. The participants who ex... WSJ.com: Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2691459 Tue, 11 Aug 2009 21:53:10 +0100 2691459 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2691745&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F1j1HZ1Q6O5Y%2Falzheimers-reading-room-flashback-1.html I decided to go back to January, 2007 (the month I started this blog), and look at some of the articles I posted at that time. Comments welcome.Americans Fear Alzheimer’s More Than Heart Disease, Diabetes or StrokeA study by the MetLife Foundation found that Americans fear getting Alzheimer's disease more than heart disease, stroke, or diabetes. Alzheimer's ranks second in the minds of American's only to cancer.To continue reading go here.The Seven Stages of Alzheimer'sExperts have documented common patterns of symptom progression that occur in many individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and developed several methods of “staging” based on these patterns.To continue reading go here.James Smith: I'm 45 Years Old, I can't have Alzheimer'sMy doctors initially diagnosed it as possible dep... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2691745 Tue, 11 Aug 2009 18:40:00 +0100 2691745 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2691746&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2Ft_JLPDdB9K8%2Fuc-irvine-discovers-new-alzheimers-gene.html This study points to the use of mitochondrial-based therapies fortreating the disease."The study will be published Aug. 7 in the journal PLoS One.Supporting the UCI discovery is research presented recently at theInternational Conference on Alzheimer's Disease in Austria. DukeUniversity scientists found that patients with TOMM40 developedAlzheimer's an average of seven years earlier than those without thegene.In addition to Potkin, who is also the Robert R. Sprague Chair in BrainImaging and director of UCI's Brain Imaging Center, UCI scientists Dr.Fabio Macciardi, Guia Guffanti, Dr. Anita Lakatos, Jessica Turner, Dr.Frithjof Kruggel and James Fallon worked on this study.They collaborated with Andrew Saykin of Indiana University, Dr. MichaelWeiner of UC San Francisco and Alzheimer's Disease ... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2691746 Tue, 11 Aug 2009 15:38:00 +0100 2691746 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2688635&cid=t_299694_87_f&fid=36224&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.wsjonline.com%2F%7Er%2Fwsj%2Fhealth%2Ffeed%2F%7E3%2F9jg1OpHbNng%2F Parkinson’s disease, like Alzheimer’s and some other progressive brain diseases, is difficult to diagnose because there’s no blood or lab test to determine who has it. Now, GE is hoping the FDA will approve its chemical for brain imaging, which the company says may help docs rule out the possibility that a patient has Parkinson’s. But the results still won’t provide a definitive diagnosis. The chemical, a so-called radiopharmaceutical with the brand name Datscan, is injected into patients to allow doctors to get a look at the brain. Specifically, it helps detect the loss of certain brain cells in the substantia nigra, which is known to be associated with Parkinson’s. An FDA panel of experts will weigh in tomorrow on GE’s quest to have the chemical... WSJ.com: Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2688635 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 22:08:33 +0100 2688635 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2688881&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2Fu00JXHL-huM%2Fsenators-bayh-martinez-step-up-fight.html Now for some good news.“Alzheimer’s causes a tremendous emotional strain to the families caring for patients, and a financial strain on our nation’s already stressed health care system. With the number of Alzheimer’s patients on the rise and the federal government spending an estimated one hundred billion dollars on their care this year, we must increase our efforts to detect and combat this disease. Establishing the Office of the National Alzheimer’s Project in the White House will accelerate the development of cutting edge medical treatments to fight Alzheimer’s and improve patient care for the 5.3 million Americans and their families who bravely confront this disease every day.”Advice and Insight into Alzheimer's diseaseSubscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading RoomWashington �... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2688881 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 19:45:00 +0100 2688881 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2688883&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FKdzKOs_kHQI%2Fwife-of-early-onset-alzheimers-patient.html Time for a stomach ache.Gail Ward can't get over seeing her late husband struggling with early-onset Alzheimer's disease and being confused by the handcuffs and shackles used for commitment hearings after he became agitated at an assisted-living facility.It's not just the absence of Steven Ward that his widow, Gail, has struggled with since his death nine months ago. It wasn't even his diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease -- at the shockingly young age of 56.Gail Ward, 58, has been a long-term care nurse for decades and knows the struggles of caring for demented patients well.No, the memory that haunts the Roanoke woman is of her fearful, confused husband being escorted into an emergency commitment hearing -- in handcuffs and shackles -- and pleading with her to tell him: "What did I do wrong?... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2688883 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 19:05:17 +0100 2688883 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2688639&cid=t_299694_87_f&fid=36224&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.wsjonline.com%2F%7Er%2Fwsj%2Fhealth%2Ffeed%2F%7E3%2FeOpBFtOaO3s%2F Alzheimer’s patients have trouble seeing contrast, which can make it difficult to see, for example, exactly where one stair ends and the next begins. Scientists think the deficit is related to the same pathology that destroys patients’ memory. Now, doctors are working on ways to help patients deal with this deficit and improve their ability to handle some basic requirements of daily living, the Boston Globe reports. Researchers have conducted a series of experiments showing that increasing the visual contrast in certain tasks has an impact on Alzheimer’s patients’ behaviors. For instance, by placing food on a red plate, people with Alzheimer’s ate more. And by increasing the contrast in a task that required identify letters, on which Alzheimer’s patients... WSJ.com: Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2688639 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:44:28 +0100 2688639 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2683984&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FXYuGpdqAe5w%2Fcinnamon-increases-cognitive-activity.html Our reader Ray suggested that I list vitamins, supplements, and the dosages that I give my mother each day. I will do that soon. Here is one spice that we take every day--Cinnamon.Let me preface my article by saying this, all of the things I do are designed to benefit my mother, but just as important--keep my body and brain healthy. Since I know that I am genetically predisposed to Alzheimer's, I decided I should do as many things as I can do, right now, to protect my brain and increase cognitive activity.Cinnamon is good source of manganese, fibre, iron and calcium. Several studies indicate that cinnamon may help prevent type II diabetes, lower blood pressure, lower LDL cholesterol, and lower blood sugar. Cinnamon is a powerful antioxidant. I should say, cinnamon is very high in antioxida... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2683984 Sat, 08 Aug 2009 16:50:05 +0100 2683984 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2682115&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FXYuGpdqAe5w%2Fcinnamon-increases-cognitive-activity.html Our reader Ray suggested that I list vitamins, supplements, and the dosages that I give my mother each day. I will do that soon. Here is one spice that we take every day--Cinnamon.Let me preface my article by saying this, all of the things I do are designed to benefit my mother, but just as important--keep my body and brain healthy. Since I know that I am genetically predisposed to Alzheimer's, I decided I should do as many things as I can do, right now, to protect my brain and increase cognitive activity.Cinnamon is good source of manganese, fibre, iron and calcium. Several studies indicate that cinnamon may help prevent type II diabetes, lower blood pressure, lower LDL cholesterol, and lower blood sugar. Cinnamon is a powerful antioxidant. I should say, cinnamon is very high in antioxida... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2682115 Fri, 07 Aug 2009 18:15:20 +0100 2682115 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2678840&cid=t_299694_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2F_AuJKl0bEMU%2Faricept-conundrum.html There is an interesting article about Aricept over on the New Old Age Blog. Basically, Jane Gross puts the knock on Aricept. She does back up her words.Subscribe to The Alzheimer's Reading RoomDoes Aricept work?My conversations with caregivers indicate that most believe it is ineffective.Further conversations with them indicates that they believe the drug is designed to stop Alzheimer's in its tracks. Aricept, if it does work, is designed to slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Aricept is very expensive, and it has lots of side effects.My mother takes Aricept and it is my belief that the drug does work as expected for us. I believe it did slow the progression of her Alzheimer's disease.Can I be certain? No. I don't have anything to compare our results with; I just don't know what w... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2678840 Thu, 06 Aug 2009 16:28:55 +0100 2678840 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2674239&cid=t_299694_87_f&fid=36224&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.wsjonline.com%2F%7Er%2Fwsj%2Fhealth%2Ffeed%2F%7E3%2Fn5r6DHHVwgw%2F More data this week suggesting that common risk factors for heart disease may also raise the risk of developing Alzheimer’s: A study of nearly 10,000 people found that having high cholesterol during midlife increased the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease in old age. The finding was based on cholesterol measurements taken in the 1960s and early 70s, when the patients were in their early 40s, and on Alzheimer’s Disease diagnoses that came decades later. Among those whose cholesterol was “desirable” during middle age (below 200 mg/dl), 4% developed Alzheimer’s in old age; among those with high cholesterol (240 mg/dl or above), 5.6% developed Alzheimer’s. After adjusting for other variables, the researchers found that people with high cholesterol ... WSJ.com: Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2674239 Wed, 05 Aug 2009 16:37:40 +0100 2674239