Research Provides A New Hope for Senior Care For Those With Alzheimer’s Disease.
Alzheimer’s is a brain disease that causes a slow decline in memory, thinking and reasoning skills. It’s been estimated that 5.3 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease. As of now, it is the only one of the common causes of death that has no cure, effective treatment or prevention. However, there has never been a more exciting time in the world of Senior Care and Alzheimer’s research than now, and new developments seem to be springing up all the time.
The most recent discoveries are expected to be of major importance in the search for treatments, and possibly even a cure, as research shows the interrelationship of Alzheimer’s and the body’s immune response to infections: Harvard Researchers Unveil New Alzheimer’s Theory.
While scientists have been studying the connection between the beta amyloid protein and Alzheimer’s, the most recent news comes from the discovery that this protein is displaying the capability of fighting off infections in mice. If beta amyloid performs similarly in humans, eradicating this bacteria-fighting protein could be hazardous. And since this is exactly what some drug trials are currently trying, it is troubling news in the world of senior care.
If this thesis is correct, it follows that Alzheimer’s is probably sparked by an over-reactive immune response to a pathogen, causing a senior’s brain to be overloaded with issues that it cannot handle.
Although currently inconclusive, the findings correspond with what we already know about the importance of a healthy diet, exercise, and proper sleep. Now, these items could even help with the prevention of Alzheimer’s. It also lays the way for other conceivable treatments, including vaccines and inflammatory reduction medications.
Much research remains for Alzheimer’s disease. Hibernian Home Care offers compassionate Alzheimer’s care that seniors need, with a focus on memory care. Contact us today to learn more about our senior care services.
