We read a lot about the “mind-body connection” these days. Most of us realize that the way we think about things can influence the health of our entire bodies. But it’s important to know that this works both ways: our overall wellness affects the health of our brains. We used to think of “the mind” […]
You have probably read that trans fats are bad for the heart. Trans fats, also known as trans fatty acids, are created when hydrogen is added to vegetable oil to keep foods solid and to extend their shelf life. Here’s where trans fats are often found: packaged baked goods, such as cookies, crackers and frozen […]
Caring for a loved one with dementia or other behavioral health conditions has major impact on quality of life. The United Hospital Fund and AARP Public Policy Institute recently issued a report with compelling new evidence that family caregivers who provide complex chronic care to people who have cognitive and behavioral health conditions face particularly […]
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 15 million family members and friends are now serving as unpaid caregivers for the 5.4 million people who are living with Alzheimer’s disease in the United States. This means that most of us know someone who is living with or caring for someone who has been touched by […]
When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, you need to start getting their health, legal, and financial affairs in order. You want to plan for the future, if possible, with help from your loved one while they can still make decisions. You need to review all of their health, legal, and financial information […]
It was recently reported that comedian-actor Robin Williams had dementia at the time of his death—but he was not suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. This is the first time many people had heard of Lewy body dementia, even though it is the second-most-common form of dementia. The Lewy Body Dementia Association shares this information on the […]
Many people believe that creativity peaks when we are young, diminishing as we grow older. But this stereotype is a myth. In fact, research shows that creativity can be maintained and even increased as we age. Many lifelong artists have reached their most productive and innovative phase in their 60s and beyond. The arts are […]
Scientists at the 2014 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference emphasize lifestyle factors. Each year, leading experts on Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders meet at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference, which is the world’s largest gathering of leading researchers, who present the latest information on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of memory and cognitive disorders. This information […]
Late afternoon and early evening can be difficult for some people with Alzheimer’s disease. They may experience sundowning—restlessness, agitation, irritability, or confusion that can begin or worsen as daylight begins to fade—often just when tired caregivers need a break. Sundowning can continue into the night, making it hard for people with Alzheimer’s to fall asleep […]
The risk of developing cognitive impairment, especially learning and memory problems, is significantly greater for people with poor cardiovascular health than people with intermediate or ideal cardiovascular health, according to a recent study appearing in the Journal of the American Heart Association. Cardiovascular health plays a critical role in brain health, with several cardiovascular risk […]
