Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia
Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia are devastating neuro-degenerative conditions that affect millions worldwide. Alzheimer's, the most common form of dementia, accounts for 60-80% of cases. It is characterized by progressive memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes. Dementia, a broader category, refers to a decline in cognitive function severe enough to interfere with daily life and independent functioning.
THE STATS
- Over 5 million people in the USA currently live with dementia.
- By 2050, this number is expected to rise to over 15 million, a threefold increase.
- Dementia is the 6th leading cause of death in America, surpassing breast and prostate cancers combined.
- Every 60 seconds, a new case of dementia is diagnosed.
- 1/3 of seniors die from dementia.
- Approximately 16 million Americans provide unpaid care for family members with dementia.
- The economic burden was $278 billion in 2018.
- By age 65, 1 in 8 Americans will have a dementia diagnosis, and by age 85, this increases to 1 in 2.
Early Detection and Memory Testing
Early detection of memory loss is crucial in managing dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Tests like the Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) test and other assessments help identify early signs of cognitive decline.
Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) Test
The MCI test evaluates cognitive functions to detect early memory loss. It includes:
Memory Assessments: Word and story recall tests.
Executive Function Tests: Assess planning and problem-solving.
Language Tests: Evaluate naming and comprehension skills.
Visuospatial Tests: Tasks involving drawing and shape recognition.
These tests help differentiate between normal aging and MCI.
Other Memory Tests
Several standardized tests assess memory and cognitive function:
Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE)
Purpose: Evaluates cognitive function.
Components: Tests orientation, attention, recall, and language.
Scoring: Below 24 (out of 30) suggests impairment.
Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)
Purpose: Detects mild cognitive impairment.
Components: Includes memory, attention, language, and executive functions.
Scoring: Below 26 (out of 30) indicates impairment.
Clock Drawing Test (CDT)
Purpose: Assesses visuospatial and executive function.
Task: Drawing a clock showing a specific time.
Interpretation: Inaccurate drawings indicate deficits.
Memory Impairment Screen (MIS)
Purpose: Assesses episodic memory.
Components: Word recall after a short delay.
Scoring: Lower scores indicate impairment.
Neuropsychological Testing
Purpose: Comprehensive evaluation by a neuropsychologist.
Components: In-depth assessments of multiple cognitive domains.
Risk Factors and Prevention
Lifestyle and Learning
High school dropouts and those who stop learning early are at a higher risk.
Higher education and continuous learning reduce the risk of dementia.
Christians with a devotional life often continue learning, which may protect cognitive function.
Engaging in hobbies can significantly reduce the risk of dementia according to the National Institutes of Health.
Lifestyle Habits
Exercise: Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining brain health.
TV and Device Usage: Excessive TV watching and social media use can lead to "digital dementia," characterized by earlier onset and more pronounced symptoms.
Diet:
Healthy Fats: Consuming healthy fats (1 tsp to 1 tbsp three times daily) is essential for brain health. Healthy fats are found in avocados, nuts, seeds, olives, coconut, nut butters, dark chocolate, soy products, and cacao nibs.
Polyphenols and Anthocyanins: Foods rich in these compounds, such as blueberries and strawberries, can improve memory. Blueberry supplementation has been shown to increase memory and verbal learning, while blueberries and strawberries can decrease cognitive decline in older women by 2.5 years.
Cholesterol and Carbohydrates: High cholesterol and low-carb/no-wheat diets can negatively impact brain health. Healthy carbohydrates and moderate wheat intake are beneficial.
Resveratrol: Found in non-wine sources, supports BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), which promotes neuron growth. Some places resveratrol can be found are: red and purple grapes, blueberries, mulberries, and cranberries, raw and boiled peanuts, pistachios, cocoa and dark chocolate, soy, and Itadori tea which is made from Japanese knotweed.
Medical and Mental Health
Insulin Resistance and Type 3 Diabetes: Alzheimer's is sometimes referred to as Type 3 diabetes due to insulin resistance in the brain.
Depression and Anxiety: Depression in the 20s and 30s triples the risk of dementia by age 60. Anxiety, tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana use also increase risk.
Vitamin Deficiencies: 20% of dementia patients have a B12 deficiency. Low vitamin D levels can accelerate dementia development.
Vascular Health: High cholesterol, saturated fats, and high sugar/salt intake lead to vascular dementia through high blood pressure and obesity.
Conclusion
Alzheimer's and dementia present significant challenges, but through early detection, lifestyle modifications, and continuous learning, their impact can be mitigated. With rising prevalence, public awareness and proactive management are crucial. As research continues, embracing holistic health practices and preventive measures can help maintain cognitive function and improve the quality of life for those affected.