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Drug 'Cocktail' Improves Brain Function
(Source: MIT News) - Researchers at MIT have shown that a mixture of three compounds promotes growth of new brain connections and improves cognitive function in laboratory mice. The treatment is now being tested in Alzheimer's patients and could hold promise for other brain diseases and injuries.
After Stem-Cell Breakthrough, the Work Begins
(Source: NY Times) - Scientists in Japan and the US reported that they could make human skin cells behave like embryonic stem cells - able to grow indefinitely and potentially turn into any type of body tissue.
A Common Casualty of Old Age: The Will to Live
(Source: NY Times) - Suicide is more common among older Americans than any other age group. The statistics are daunting. While people 65 and older account for 12 percent of the population, they represent 16 percent to 25 percent of the suicides. And four out of five suicides among older adults are men.
Alzheimer Drugs Don't Delay Dementia Onset
(Source: Reuters) - Three main drugs (Aricept, or donepezil; Exelon, or rivastigmine; and Reminyl, or galantamine) are currently approved for use in mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease. They are also often prescribed for people with pre-dementia.
Dementia Patients 'Are Ignored'
(Source: BBC News) - The UK's Alzheimer's Society surveyed 3,500 relatives of people with dementia, care home staff and managers. They found that many dementia patients went without attention or care for hours. Many said their loved ones were rarely taken outside and basic hygiene needs were not always met.
Getting Elders to Go to the Doctor and Taking Their Medications
(Source: HalthCentral.com) - In this article Jacqueline Marcell discusses the importance and strategies to get elders evaluated and treated early for depression and memory loss, even in light of heavy resistance.
Holidays Are a Good Time to Check on Aging Parents
(Source: Dailycamera.com) - The holidays can be a good time to make sure elderly parents are doing well. The Mayo Clinic offers a checklist which suggests...
A Link Between ALS and Alzheimer's
(Source: Amorfix Life Sciences) - Amorfix announced the discovery of misfolded superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) protein in the brains of people with Alzheimer's disease. This data suggests a common link between Alzheimer's and ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease.
Plan Ahead for Long-Term Care
(Source: WebWire) - As roles reverse, boomers must plan for costs of aging parents' long-term care management. Jeannie Keenan explains, "Everyone who has an aging parent will find themselves at some point playing a role in that parent's health care management, whether that's the lead role or a supporting role."
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