November is National Alzheimer ’s Disease Awareness Month

“Photo” by Huy Phan is licensed under CC0. November is National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month. Alzheimer’s Disease is an irreversible brain disorder, seen most often in elderly people, but occasionally in those who are younger (known as early-onset Alzheimer’s Disease). Its most common symptom is memory loss. There is no cure or treatment, and scientists are still unsure what causes late-onset Alzheimer’s (they believe early-onset Alzheimer’s is caused by a genetic mutation), but it is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. New research suggests that if an older person is experiencing feelings of loneliness, it could mean they are developing Alzheimer’s. Researchers found that high levels of amyloid, what people who are truly at risk for Alzheimer’s have, are 7.5 times more likely to feel lonely. The research team studied 43 women and 36 men, with an average age of 76, who were all deemed healthy with no signs of Alzheimer’s or dementia. Those who felt isolated or socially detached, even when around family, were at a higher risk of Alzheimer’s. It’s important to note that there is no direct correlation between loneliness and increased risk of Alzheimer’s. Dr. Gisele Wolf-Klein, director of geriatric education for Northwell Health in Great Neck, N.Y., described the research and findings as still “very new.” More research will need to be completed to fully determine if there is a connection. For more information on t...
Source: Network News - Category: Databases & Libraries Authors: Tags: General (all entries) Source Type: news