Every time scientists are able to understand another biological process linked to Alzheimer's disease, it offers another way that they might eventually be able to treat or prevent it. New research has shed light on the protein contactin-4 and its relationship with the amyloid precursor protein (APP), which could help unravel the mystery of the disease. Science Alert explains: https://flip.it/nE342h #Science#Health#Brain#Alzheimers
"Don't think of people with #dementia as not having abilities. They have an ability to feel and interact and we need to try and enter into their world."
Today from my backyard. It's glorious. After 40 years here and many life changes, I'd started to take it for granted. I don't go down there nearly enough.
A short walk reminds me of exactly why we bought this rough old 5 acres instead of a proper small block (for the same price!) just out the road. 😎
I wish J could still enjoy it, but she longer remembers home. Even if she did, it's a cliff top scramble - not accessible. 😢
Okay, I get that not everybody cares about history. I am now starting to worry if Mum is also getting #Alzheimers though - she suggested that when they downsized the house, she was just going to THROW MY GRANDPARENTS MEDALS OUT. Both Grandfathers were incredibly proud of their war service. I have worked in military history, and have been speaking about getting her Mother’s and Aunt’s Medals…and I just organised the Anzac Medallion for her Grandfather. WTAF? Also…1/2
My wife and I finally (finally!) had a conversation about my increasing memory loss. And growing signs of early dementia.
It's something I've been wanting to do for a couple of years. She is quite upset, but I made my peace with it a while ago. It's just getting impossible to ignore. #memory#alzheimers#dementia
Scientists have identified a genetic form of Alzheimer’s disease in older people, pinpointing a gene of which some people carry two copies. The gene, called APOE4, is not only a risk factor but an underlying cause for the disease when found twice in a person’s DNA, researchers say. Finding a way to target APOE4 in treatment is crucial because Leqembi, the only drug found to slow the disease, causes dangerous side effects in people with the gene. The Associated Press has more.
What we commonly call #dementia "behaviors" actually are communication about confusion, pain, distress, or for other wants or needs to be addressed. We must view them compassionately and listen for the message.
Here's one of the few more modern articles I found about this Arc gene and how brains work. "Arc Regulates Transcription of Genes for Plasticity, Excitability and Alzheimer’s Disease" https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9405677/
"#Music imprints itself on the brain deeper than any other human experience. Music evokes emotion and emotion can bring with it memory. Music brings back the feeling of life when nothing else can." ~ Dr. Oliver Sacks