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Blood Test for Dementia and Alzheimer’s

Petra Boh Blog, Prevention May 13, 2021October 15, 2021blood tests, dementia

After weeks of research and study reviews, we bring you this in-depth overview of blood tests for dementia.

Researchers have revealed that conducting a blood test is fast BECOMING A REALITY in dementia diagnosis.

This comes as great news because for the longest time, conducting an autopsy was the only way to get a definitive diagnosis for Alzheimer’s.

Thanks to research and innovation, medics are able to use behavioral tests as well as spinal fluid and brain imaging tests to spot the disease in people before they even start showcasing the initial symptoms of the progressive illness.

These tests, however, are not considered “ideal.” They are not only invasive but are COSTLY and LIMITED to research settings.

They are not part of the care routine for millions of people who are living with this neurodegenerative disorder.

Some tests are not too helpful because they can fail to detect the illness during its early stages.

Brief Introduction to Blood Test for Dementia

Research by scientists in Australia and Japan indicates that a simple blood test will be all that is needed to detect a person who is at risk of developing Alzheimer’s.

It will be possible to get a diagnosis for Alzheimer’s in a doctor’s office without having to go through expensive and invasive procedures.

Doctors will use blood samples to detect the early signs of the illness. A blood test HAS ALREADY BEEN DEVELOPED by C2N Diagnostics in St. Loius, Mo.

This will mainly be used for persons in the US as a routine lab test.

The blood test is regulated under the CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments) program from CMS.

For now, the FDA has not yet approved these blood tests. Interested parties can only take the test through a doctor.

If the company wishes, it can sell the rest under commercial laboratories rules. C2N has said that there are plans for the FDA to review this test in 2021.

Alzheimer’s Association stated that it will only endorse this test after the FDA has approved it.

Laboratory tests

The lab test has also received a CE mark implying it can be used as a diagnostic medical device in the European Union. It has met the health, safety, and environmental protection standards for the region.

Michelle Mielke an epidemiologist and neuroscientist at Mayo Clinic expressed her delight in the new development saying that the INNOVATIVE blood-based test for Alzheimer’s is phenomenal.

She explained that the field for very long has been thinking about such an invention. It has finally come to pass.

How the Blood Test for Dementia Works

Also known as the Precitivity AD, the C2N test or blood test for dementia uses mass spectrometry. An analytic technique used to detect specific beta-amyloid protein fragment that is one of the most common hallmarks of Alzheimer’s.

The beta-amyloid proteins normally accumulate and form plaques which can be seen on the brain 2 decades after an individual starts to notice they have memory issues.

The levels of beta-amyloid start to decline in the surrounding fluids as the plaques continue to build up in the brain. These changes can be measured in spinal fluid samples.

It is also possible to measure them in the blood where beta-amyloid concentrations are usually lower.

PrecivityAD is one of the first blood tests for Alzheimer’s that could enable early detection of the neurodegenerative illness.

HOPEFULLY, decades before the first symptoms appear.

Who Can Benefit from Precivity AD and How it Works

Precivity AD is designed for persons between the ages of 60-91. A prescribing physician will ship the blood samples of the person they are treating to be analyzed at C2N’s lab.

The results are normally sent back within ten business days.

A proprietary algorithm is used to calculate the results integrating the age of a person with beta-amyloid measurements and another protein known as apolipoprotein E which influences the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

The results of the blood test are supposed to enhance the accuracy of clinical diagnosis by distinguishing Alzheimer’s dementia from memory loss that is brought about by other medical conditions.

Blood Test Cost Implications

The cost of the test is around $1,250. For now, insurance does not cover this expense.

Thankfully, a person can take advantage of financial assistance programs. And BRING DOWN the expense to around $25-$20 for eligible candidates according to Joel Braunstein chief executive of C2N.

This is more affordable when compared with beta-amyloid tests using PET (positron- emission tomography) brain imaging which normally costs about $5,000 (not covered by insurance).

CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) samples typically cost anywhere from $800 to $ 1,000.

Reasons the Blood Test for Dementia is Important

When compared to the difficult and invasive procedures, the blood test for dementia, opens up more exciting possibilities.

Not only for clinical use but therapeutic development explains Adam Boxer a neurologist who works at the University of California, San Francisco.

Blood tests are also very convenient. They can be collected in a person’s home or REMOTE LOCATIONS.

While there is still no medication for Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, early tests that are readily available can enhance treatment.

They can allow affected persons to take appropriate measures to stay healthy, participate in clinical trials, and plan for their future.

Blood tests are also important because they can help identify the people who are at risk of developing the disease explains Mielke.

The rest can also be used to screen potential participants who can benefit from experimental drugs.

Elisabeth Thijssen a researcher studying blood biomarkers for Alzheimer’s at Amsterdam University Medical Centers in the Netherlands said that affordable blood tests can also lower the cost of clinical trials which will give an opportunity for potential treatments to be tested.

This can increase the chance of finally landing a cure.

How Effective is the Blood Test?

C2N reported that they used the Preclivity AD on 168 people. They then compared the results with those of PET scans.

When PET scans showed high amounts of amyloid-beta the blood test agreed 92% of the time.

If there was no amyloid shown after a PET scan, the blood test also gave similar results 77% of the time.

Are there any other Blood Tests for Alzheimer’s?

There is another blood test for dementia that is showing great potential for diagnosing the progressive illness.

Simoa test

It is known as Simoa which stands for “single-molecule array.”

This is also designed to test if there are any proteins in the blood plasma. This test can detect a protein known as ptau181 which has been linked to some of the changes that dementia causes in the brain.

Various studies revealed that Simoa is as effective at predicting dementia development as a spinal tap and PET scans.

The Simoa blood test, however, ELIMINATES the pain, cost, and radioactivity that are associated with the other tests.

Simoa can also detect upcoming changes in the brain that are caused by dementia for both short and long-term i.e. 15 months and 4 years respectively.

At the moment, researchers are using this technology to identify ideal candidates for clinical trials because it is not yet available for many people with the illness.

Apart from Simoa, there are other types of blood tests that are still in development.

Other blood tests

Some are looking into fatty amides or protective fats in the blood.

Studies indicate that if there are increased levels of fatty amide in the blood, it may be an indication of the accumulation of beta-amyloid in the brain.

Researchers are also working on blood tests that will measure other proteins like the NfL (neurofilament light chain) and tau proteins.

Experts claim that brain cell (neuron) death COMMON with individuals with Alzheimer’s may be detected by an increase of the proteins in the blood.

Closing Thoughts

The introduction of the blood test for dementia WILL revolutionize the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

The blood tests will hopefully offer a definitive diagnosis. It will HELP to ELIMINATE the time, pain, and uncertainty of diagnosing the illness.

When the tests become popular, they will have a huge impact on how doctors diagnose dementia.

This may also change the course of treatment. Instead of symptom management, medics may start focusing on the prevention as well as delaying the progression of the disease.

For instance, there may be a possibility that medication can lessen the accumulation of plaques in the brain.

Physiotherapy and Dementia Treatment

Petra Boh Blog, Prevention May 10, 2021August 11, 2023dementia, physiotherapy

We take an in-depth look at the close connection between physiotherapy and dementia.

I cannot express myself enough how important is exercise and movement, which I continuously encourage my grandparents to participate in.

While there is still no cure for dementia, there are certain interventions that can help people who are living with the disease.

One of the most common ones is physiotherapy.

According to Physiopedia, physiotherapy plays a huge role in maintaining and promoting mobility in persons who have dementia.

It also helps to reduce the burden of care and improve the quality of life for individuals with the illness.

By implementing professional physio, it helps improve psychological, physical, and social well-being. Through simple body movements.

The experts use different kinds of exercises with persons who have dementia.

Some of the most common ones include:

Group exercise classes that enhance mobility and balance
Pool-based therapy where participants do not only engage in exercises but also practice handling multiple tasks at once
Virtual reality dancing using innovative systems such as Nintendo Wii to mimic movements as well as receive tactile and auditory feedback. Or participating in dance therapy
Technology-based prompting systems designed to deconstruct everyday tasks by creating written or verbal prompts

Physiotherapists usually offer personalized services depending on what a person needs when dealing with physiotherapy and dementia.

This helps them come up with the most effective ways of helping the individual with the illness.

Physiotherapy and Dementia Benefits

There are multiple ways individuals with dementia can benefit from physiotherapy sessions.

Improving Balance

Many people who have dementia usually experience poor balance which increases the risk of falling.

Physiotherapy can reduce the risk of falling by offering exercises that are designed to improve balance.

Physiotherapists can curate fall prevention programs that can address the fear of falling.

It helps persons with the illness maintain their independence and safely complete daily living tasks.

Physiotherapy Promotes Exercise

The benefits of exercise are immeasurable for everyone – including people with dementia.

People with dementia need to get up and move about depending on their capabilities. This can help prevent an array of medical conditions.

Physiotherapists can help people with dementia take part in appropriate exercises.

They can develop different beneficial programs like:

Strengthening exercises that will decrease the risk of osteoporosis and increase bone strength.
Stretching and Flexibility: These can help a person move around easier and they can assist in muscle tightening.
Postural Management: To prevent poor posture it is important for a person to regularly change their position. Physiotherapy assists in this leading to increased comfort levels as well as decreased joint movement and pressure sores.

Some of the exercises that the professionals recommend include seated exercise group, walking and utilizing technology like Wii.

Exercise is IMPORTANT because it can help improve the mood and thinking of people who have dementia.

This in turn can encourage social interaction and reduce the need for medication. It can also help people who are from surgery recover better and faster.

In some people with progressive illness, working out can have a POSITIVE IMPACT on the psychological and behavioral symptoms of the illness.

By exercising, persons with can dementia enjoy better sleep and feel less fatigued.

To encourage persons with dementia to exercise, physiotherapists do not only lead activities, but they can also lead recall or music classes.

Pain Management

When discussing physiotherapy and dementia, it is important to mention that drug-free therapy can help in pain management.

People with dementia may experience pain for a wide range of reasons. Including pressure sores, infections, osteoarthritis, and falls among others.

Pain CAN AFFECT motivation, mental function, and how persons with dementia respond to rehabilitation programs.

Some people with dementia may have a hard time expressing they are in pain.

Physiotherapists help in identifying and treating pain. They also offer the support that ill people need.

Reduce Care Burden

Carers who look after individuals with dementia usually display poorer health when compared to their peers.

Physiotherapy helps to reduce care burden by educating caregivers and also encouraging independence among people who are living with dementia.

This can give carers more free time to take care of themselves. Consequently, they can be happy and healthy while executing their caregiving responsibilities.

Helps in Saving Costs

Physiotherapists contribute a lot when it comes to offering improved care for people who have dementia.

CSP reveals that physiotherapy services for individuals living with dementia have been identified as a key cost saver saving up to £6 million annually.

This is because physiotherapists can help in the early discharge of people so that a person with dementia does NOT have to stay in the hospital for too long.

For instance, if a person suffers a common hip fracture, they are usually required to stay in the hospital for an average of seven days.

The majority of people with dementia will end up staying in the hospital for about fourteen days.

Some may even stay for a month or more.

The longer a person stays in the hospital the more costs are incurred.

However, when working with a physiotherapist, people will dementia will end up staying fewer days in hospital incurring fewer costs.

A case study on the above was done in Greenview Intermediate Care Unit.

This is an institution that offers rehabilitation for persons who have delirium and dementia offering them an opportunity to go back home.

Persons at Greenview go through physiotherapy sessions five days a week following home visits and assessments to evaluate risk factors before they are discharged.

More than half of the people go back home safely.

The professionals conduct further follow-up home visits to assess progress as well as collaborate with other agencies to make sure the individuals discharged STAY SAFE at home.

The service has seen a reduction in people staying in hospital which ends up reducing costs and preventing hospital admissions in the future.

Physiotherapy and Dementia Closing Thoughts

There are a few things that CANNOT be ignored when it comes to looking after a person with dementia. One of them is physiotherapy.

While physiotherapy does not cure dementia it can help slow down cognitive deterioration, enhance mobility, improve the quality of life, and help a person with dementia lead a more dignified life.

Social Robots In Advanced Dementia

Petra Boh Blog, Prevention May 9, 2021September 8, 2023dementia, social robots, therapy robots

While we were researching social robots in advanced dementia, we found many positive effects.

Technology has come a long way. We now have social robots which are essentially artificial intelligence systems designed to interconnect with each other.

Most importantly, INTERACT with humans.

They have proven as beneficial assets in different fields and in the workplace. Robots perform tasks like basic customer service while at home they (can) become an extended part of the family.

Several studies revealed the POSITIVE OUTCOME of employing the use of social robots in advanced dementia treatment.

Using Social Robots In Advanced Dementia Treatment

Most of the studies on using social robots as part of the treatment and care in advanced dementia only show impact during the time of interaction.

Social robots CAN ASSIST people with dementia in diverse ways.

These include serving as a daily life assistant, exercise coach, and offering companionship.

Given that the research and these robots are still in their infancy in a sense, there are no studies assessing their medium or long-term effectiveness in dementia care.

Regardless, most of these studies conducted in the span of a couple of weeks to three months show positive results in facilitating cognitive stimulation therapy (CST).

One such study conducted over a nine-week period at a nursing home saw a SOCIAL ROBOT INTERACT with eight different people with dementia.

The study incorporated elements like cognitive games, music therapy, relaxation, and reminiscence.

In the end, the study noted that three symptoms significantly decreased.

These were euphoria/exaltation, delusions, and agitation/aggression.

Interviews with caregivers further revealed that the participants exhibited positive effects after the sessions.

The study concluded that social robots can play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for people with dementia.

In yet another study a humanoid robot (NAO), a real dog, and a pet dog (PARO) were incorporated in therapy sessions at the Alzheimer’s Center Teina Sofia Foundation (ACRSF) daycare center and the ACRSF nursing home.

PARO

The PARO is a social robot that resembles a baby seal in terms of appearance, sound, and movement.

It is programmable with sensors controlling lights, posture, sound, and touch.

PARO can move its neck, tail, and anterior flippers in upward and downward motions as well as laterally.

It also emits short squeals like a seal.

NAO

The NAO is a humanoid robot that is significantly larger in stature compared to the PARO.

It also features sensors that control vision, movement, sound, touch, and sonar. The humanoid can also TALK and SING.

It’s possible to replace the robotic voice with MP3 recordings with a child-like voice that is easier for dementia patients to understand. In the study, the NAO used resembled dogs.

In the nursing home, the three different THERAPEUTIC TOOLS (PARO, NAO, and a real dog) were employed during therapy sessions based on the severity of dementia.

The daycare center had people with dementia work with NAO during the first phase followed by PARO in the second phase.

In all cases, patients were assigned only one of three therapeutic tools.

The therapy sessions were conducted two days each week over a three-month period. 148 people with dementia participated in the study.

The results found that the group that interacted with NAO robots at the nursing home displayed improvements in apathy.

The daycare group that interacted with NAO robots in the first phase had marked improvements when it came to their Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) irritability score.

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Closing Remarks – Social Robots in Advanced Dementia

The research processes on the various conditions that affect the brain’s health continue to identify NEW, PROGRESSIVE, and more EFFECTIVE ways of managing dementia.

The physical symptoms of the condition present themselves differently from one person to the next.

The treatment and care options currently available can positively impact the state of a person with dementia.

These interventions are worth exploring particularly the lifestyle changes that everyone can adopt in their lives.

Social robots in advanced dementia care also show the potential in helping people with dementia combat some of the symptoms that come with the condition.

Bonus: The Debilitating Effects Of Dementia

Dementia refers to a set of syndromes marked by the deterioration in thinking, memory, and behavior as well as the inability to execute everyday activities.

The scary fact is: dementia is becoming a natural part of the aging process. But that does not necessarily mean everyone will get dementia.

Statistics suggest that 50 million people the world over suffer from dementia.

Each year, there are approximately 10 million new cases of people who have some form of dementia.

One of the common forms of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease accounting for 60 to 70% of dementia cases.

The debilitating effect of dementia leads to DISABILITY. People with the condition are dependent on family members or caregivers to go about their day-to-day life.

In essence, dementia affects someone psychologically, physically socially, and economically. Family members and carers also feel the impact.

That is where technology can step in and offer a helping hand. With this comes the use of social robots in advanced dementia care.

Approaching Dementia Care and Treatment Progressively

When talking about managing care and treatment for dementia, it all depends on the underlying cause.

To reiterate, dementia refers to syndromes pointing to other illnesses, and it advises the approach in care and treatment.

Medicated Interventions

When it comes to Alzheimer’s disease, sadly no cure exists. The treatment options available simply alleviate the symptoms that crop up.

Some of these medical interventions can actually temporarily IMPROVE symptoms.

Often, the same medications prescribed for Alzheimer’s prove especially helpful in handling other progressive forms of dementia.

Lifestyle Changes

The Alzheimer’s Association International Conference held in 2019 reported that adopting healthy lifestyle choices contribute to the care and treatment process to reduce the effect of cognitive decline.

This includes aspects like quitting smoking or not picking up the habit entirely, exercising regularly, and engaging in activities that STIMULATE the brain.

Currently, a lot of research is underway to find new and effective treatments for dementia.

Increased participation by people who are affected in clinical studies also increases the likelihood of finding alternative ways of treating the symptoms.

We cannot change certain things, which also contribute to the choices in dementia care.

For instance, genetics and age are elements that CONTRIBUTE to the risk factor of developing dementia. As well as other illnesses that affect the health of the brain.

Non-Pharmacological Treatment Options

Non-medicated therapies also prove helpful when it comes to alleviating some of the symptoms of dementia.

One example of non-pharmacological treatment for dementia is animal-assisted therapy (AAT).

However, this form of therapy is not accessible to all people with dementia.

Animals are often prohibited in daycare centers and nursing homes.

Allergic reactions and the person’s degree of dementia also typically prevent the use of AAT in dementia care.

The use of social robots in advanced dementia care is also GRADUALLY ON THE RISE as a non-medicated treatment option.

The Social Impact Of Dementia

Dementia comes with a SIGNIFICANT social impact to both the person afflicted as well as their family members and caregivers.

Depression, social isolation, cognitive inactivity, and low educational attainment are some of the additional risks factors that come with it.

Combined with the economic implications related to social and medical costs, dealing with the condition can become tasking to both the person with dementia as well as their family.

That is why exploring options like including social robots in advanced dementia care can make a BIG difference.

Dementia can get overwhelming not only for the person who has it but also for their families.

They have to offer care, physical and emotional support as well as meet financial obligations.

Can A CT Scan Show Dementia (Is MRI Better?)

Petra Boh Blog, Prevention May 7, 2021October 15, 2021ct scan, dementia

After extensive research, we look into the commonly-asked-question of whether or not can a CT scan show dementia.

It IS POSSIBLE to detect the condition by watching for telltale signs in loved ones or yourself.

The cause of action, in this case, is to visit a physician right away so that they can perform brain imaging procedures TO DETECT the progressive neurologic disorder.

That begs the question, can a CT scan show dementia?

When Doctors Prescribe Brain Scans?

Your physician might suggest that you get a brain scan to identify underlying problems causing mental conditions or affecting your general wellbeing.

Typically they are used to detect tumors, strokes, as well as other problems THAT CAN spark dementia that may appear on brain scans.

The cortex of the brain appears overly wrinkled and it has gyri (ridges of tissue) which are separated by sulci (valleys).

Individuals with cortical atrophy experience the progressive loss of neurons which in turn causes the thinning of the ridges and the sulci to grow wider.

When brain cells continue dying, the brain’s fluid-filled cavities (ventricles) expand and occupy the available space.

In turn, they become LARGER than normal.

These structural changes within the brain are also aspects that BRAIN SCANS CAN IDENTIFY.

How Do CT Scans Show Dementia?

The most common types of brain scan you might encounter are magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomographic (CT) scans.

Doctors regularly recommend MRIs and CT scans when they examine someone they suspect has dementia.

CT scans detect brain structures through X-rays and the procedure can reveal evidence of ischemia, brain atrophy, and strokes.

The procedure also picks up on PROBLEMS like subdural hematomas, hydrocephalus, and changes that affect the blood vessels.

As implied, MRIs make use of focused radio waves and magnetic fields to detect the presence of hydrogen atoms within the body’s tissues.

MRIs ARE BETTER at diagnosing brain atrophy and the damage that subtle ischemia or incidents of small strokes cause to the brain.

Thus, MRI is normally the first test a person undergoes and CT second.

Other Imaging Options That Can Diagnose Dementia

Several other brain imaging procedures exist. Each can help detect dementia in different ways.

EEGs (electroencephalogram)

EEGs (electroencephalograms) are sometimes used on people who have suspected seizures, which accompany some types of dementia.

The procedure involves placing several electrodes at different points on the scalp to check for abnormalities in the brain through the recorded patterns of electrical activity.

The electrical activity shows instances of cognitive dysfunction that plague parts of the brain or the entire organ.

People with MODERATE to SEVERE cases of dementia present abnormal EEGs.

The procedure can also identify seizures, which 10% of people with Alzheimer’s are reported to experience.

Functional Brain Imaging

Functional brain imaging procedures are not often used as diagnostic tools. But they help researchers in the process of studying people with dementia.

They include functional single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), MRI (fMRI), magnetoencephalography (MEG), and positron emission tomography (PET) scans.

Nowadays, they have a hand in the EARLY DETECTION of dementia.

fMRI measures metabolic changes happening within the brain using strong magnetic fields.

SPECT scans reveal blood distribution within the brain. This aspect is responsible for discovering increased brain activity.

PET scans pick up on blood flow, glucose, and oxygen metabolism, and if amyloid proteins are present within the brain.

MEG scans record the electromagnetic fields that the brain produces through neuronal activities.

Additional Tests to Treat and Manage Dementia

Once an individual is diagnosed with dementia, the next step that follows is helping them understand how the condition will affect them and how to manage it.

Several other medical assessments exist to help physicians understand how the condition affects a specific person. And also help families, as well as caregivers, figure out the best course of treatment for the individual.

Did you HEAR of the peanut butter test?

Neuropsychological Testing

Neuropsychologists and psychologists who have specialized training can also prescribe neuropsychological tests to detect dementia.

The process involves WRITTEN and ORAL tests that can take several hours to complete.

They use these methods to assess the cognitive functions of the person suspected to have dementia.

It helps them figure out if (and which) certain areas are impaired.

The tests assess aspects like vision-motor, memory, comprehension, reasoning, coordination, and writing abilities.

Physicians may administer additional tests to find out if the person in question is SUFFERING from mood problems or dementia.

Functional Assessments

Dementia is a cognitive disorder that affects the afflicted person’s daily functioning in different regards.

Objective assessments can establish what a person is STILL ABLE to do versus what they can no longer do in light of the condition.

Family members are asked to fill questionnaires that provide details about the person’s daily life in terms of the activities they are able to perform.

They generally note the tasks related to daily living that their loved one can complete partially, successfully, or have challenges in fulfilling.

The test also reveals the stage of Alzheimer’s afflicting the person undergoing the process. This, in turn, helps physicians and their loved ones charter the RIGHT COURSE of treatment.

The information also helps caregivers particularly in the case of someone who also suffers from other health problems like poor vision or arthritis that aggravate the degenerative condition.

Psychosocial evaluation

Social workers conduct psychosocial evaluations designed to assist the person’s family to make arrangements for their care.

They discuss the financial, physical, and emotional impacts that come from having a loved one suffer from the range of progressive brain degeneration disorders.

They also help with the process of organizing community services that can benefit the person as well as offer suggestions about alternative living arrangements if necessary.

Clinical Trials To Detect Dementia

Many people are taking part in RESEARCH STUDIES and clinical trials helping implement new medical approaches, equipment, drugs, and other treatment options in general.

People who take part in these studies gain access to advanced diagnosis or treatment options. It can help them manage the condition significantly.

Can a CT Scan Show Dementia? Conclusion

The bottom line is that CT scans and other brain imaging procedures CAN HELP diagnose dementia at any stage.

Combined with other assessments available, an individual battling the condition can get help early enough to manage it.

Families of people with dementia and caregivers can also access crucial information from these tests. They help in the process of caring for the individual.

Yoga and Dementia (Does it Help?)

Petra Boh Blog May 4, 2021October 15, 2021dementia, yoga

We studied and review the close connection between yoga and dementia. It’s a great way of improving the lives of people with dementia.

While there is still no cure for dementia, research indicates that yoga plays a huge role in improving symptoms and the quality of life not only for people with the illness but their caregivers as well.

The primary components of yoga are postures which are series of movements that are designed to increase breathing, strength, and flexibility.

Yoga & Meditation may Reduce Dementia Risk

The practice originated in ancient India and has been adapted in different parts of the globe in various ways.

Modern yoga incorporates breathing exercises, meditation, and various poses.

It is usually referred to as MBI (mind-body intervention) implying it focuses on the relationship between the brain, body, mind, and behavior as well as their effect on health and disease.

Below we discuss how yoga can help individuals with dementia through yoga and dementia research, how the practice benefits people with dementia, and chair yoga.

Research on Yoga and Dementia

Multiple studies have found that practicing yoga is beneficial to persons with dementia. One of them is a small British study that was conducted in 2014.

It showed that meditation and yoga ease the burden for persons who have dementia. The study was published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies.

The lead author of the study Yvonne J- LYN Khoo a researcher at the Health and Social Care Institute at Teesside University in the UK explained that yoga is an activity that individuals with dementia and their caregivers can do together.

This allows participants to let go as they enjoy some peace of mind.

Meditation and yoga are helpful for persons who have dementia.

They engage different sections of the brain based on various aspects of the practice that include chanting, pranayama, asana, and different levels of concentration.

These facets can assist the brain form new connections through neuroplasticity stimulation.

Yoga and medication can reduce risk of dementia

Another study concerning yoga and dementia revealed that yoga and meditation might help to reduce the risk of dementia in older adults.

The novel study was published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease. This study was led by researchers from UCLA (University of California-Los Angeles including Dr. Helen Lavretsky from the Department of Psychiatry.

The professionals enrolled 25 participants age 55 and above. 14 participants took part in Kundalini yoga once a week for an hour. They also practiced Kirtan Kriya meditation for 20 minutes daily.

Kundalini yoga is also known as “yoga of awareness” incorporates changing postures, breathing techniques, and meditation.

On the other hand, Kirtan Kriya meditation involves hand movements, chanting, and light visualization.

The rest of the participants engaged in one hour of memory enhancement training. Using activities like computer training and crossword puzzle once a week for twelve weeks.

They also spent 20 minutes every day completing memory exercises.

All the participants completed memory tests and they also underwent (fMRI) functional magnetic resonance imaging before and after the study.

This was to help researchers assess their brain activity and cognitive function.

Yoga vs Memory Exercises

At the end of 12 weeks, the team discovered that both groups showed improvements in verbal memory skills. This was the ability to remember lists of words and names.

However, the participants who were engaging in meditation and yoga demonstrated greater improvements in visual-spatial memory skills.

This refers to the ability to remember and navigate locations.

Furthermore, the group practicing yoga and meditation fared better when it came to levels of depression and anxiety as well as stress resilience and coping skills.

Researchers suggested that the improvements in mood, memory, and stress resilience seen with meditation and yoga may be caused by the increase in the production of a protein known as BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic growth factor).

This is responsible for boosting connections between existing brain cells and maintaining the survival of brain cell connections.

The researchers believe that the results of their study may be an indication that meditation and yoga can be an effective strategy when protecting older adults against cognitive decline.

Let’s look into some of the benefits that yoga offers persons with dementia.

Benefits of Yoga for Persons with Dementia

Depending on a person’s abilities, most yoga for people will dementia involves gentle movements that are performed easily and slowly manner.

Yoga classes often last anywhere from 10-30 minutes. Professional yoga trainers can tailor the sessions to meet the motor skills and physical capabilities of the participants.

Instructors do not force movements and participants are usually encouraged to complete the movements they can.

It helps persons with the progressive illness feel a sense of empowerment and self-determination.

Yoga offers plenty of benefits for persons living with dementia and some of them include:

Helps to Reduce Stress

Jonathan Graff-Radford, MD a behavioral neurologist at Mayo Clinic in Minnesota states that yoga is safe, good for mental health, and it can help reduce stress levels.

Many people with dementia suffer from stress which activates the body’s fight-or-flight response.

This can trigger a rise in blood pressure, heart rate, and release of stress hormones that have negative effects on the cardiovascular system.

Yoga helps to activate the rest-and-digest response which is the opposite effect. This causes the parasympathetic nervous system to act as a brake that dampens the stress response which is caused by stress hormones.

Practicing yoga regularly fosters the growth of the relaxation response allowing individuals to be less reactive to stress.

Helps Improve Sleep

NCCIH (The National Centre for Complementary and Integrative Health) suggests that yoga helps to improve sleep.

Most people with dementia often experience sleep issues. They end up not getting enough sleep and rest which can cause other behavioral symptoms to develop including agitation, anxiety, and many more.

Develops Inner Awareness

Yoga helps to develop the strength of the body and mind. It helps a person connect more with themselves because they do not only focus on the physical appearance.

Enhances Fitness

Yoga is also known to have a positive impact on a person’s ability to work out.

Practicing yoga enables a person to have greater flexibility, endurance, strength, and cardio-respiratory fitness.

Boosts Immunity

Some yoga poses can help boost a person’s immunity. An example is the bhastrika pranayama which helps to improve blood circulation and concentration as well as relax the body and mind.

It is also helpful for relieving depression, hypertension, and stress.

Other general perks that people with dementia can enjoy while practicing yoga include:

Increased blood flow to the brain which makes it function better. This can result in improved memory as well as increased brainpower.
Increases oxygen levels and improves the breathing process. Yoga has also been known to improve the quality of oxygen in the whole body.
Balances hormones and emotions in the mind.

Types of Yoga Poses that can Help Individuals with Dementia

There are different types of yoga that individuals with dementia can participate in. One of the most popular is known as Hatha which is a combination of many styles.

It primarily focused on breathing-controlled exercises (pranayamas) and yoga postures (asanas) which end with a resting period (savasana).

However, there is one type of yoga that most people with dementia practice especially as the disease progresses and this is known as chair yoga.

Below is a highlight of what yoga is all about.

Chair Yoga

Chair yoga is a great option especially for persons with dementia who cannot handle too many yoga moves while standing.

It offers an opportunity for participants to stretch, improve flexibility and strengthen muscles while using a stable chair that offers balance.

Chair yoga also offers important relaxation and breathing techniques through stationary poses as well as guided relaxation that target different muscle groups.

A study from Florida Atlantic University confirmed that chair yoga can help improve the quality of life for people with dementia. The participants of the study were older adults with moderate to severe dementia.

Participants attended 45 minutes sessions two times a week for twelve weeks. The results indicated that over 97% of the participants were fully engaged in all the sessions.

Juyoung Park, Ph.D. the lead author of the study stated that even though some participants showed mild levels of wandering or agitation before the yoga sessions, they became attentive and calm when yoga interventionists began demonstrating yoga poses.

He continued to say that even though some did not understand verbal instructions from the interventionist, they still followed the poses from the instructor.

Yoga and Dementia Closing Remarks

Research around the impact of yoga on dementia is still inconclusive and limited to some degree.

More studies and clinical trials need to be conducted in regards to yoga and dementia to give a clearer picture of how yoga helps.

Note that a person who has dementia must consult their doctor before trying out any yoga therapy to be on the safe side.

Creatine and Dementia – Is There a Link?

Petra Boh Blog, Prevention April 29, 2021May 6, 2022creatine, dementia, natural dementia treatment, natural therapy

In the quest to uncover products that can help people with dementia, we investigated increased interest in the link between creatine and dementia.

Creatine seems like it is playing a MAJOR ROLE in maintaining your cellular energy balance.

Does creatine help dementia?

A huge percentage (85%) of creatine is found in the muscles and the rest is found in other tissues like the retina and the brain.

Thus, creatine supplementation can improve your memory and cognitive abilities.

Creatine’s main responsibility is to supply energy to your cells in the body.

Creatine and Neurological Research

Research published in the Journal of Neuromolecular Medicine creatine suggests that the organic acid is effective in the treatment of Parkinson’s and Huntington’s disease some of the common types of dementia.

This is mostly because creatine enhances cellular energy deficits in the brain tissue.

Consequently, this HELPS reduce a majority of the symptoms of these neurodegenerative conditions.

There is strong evidence suggesting that creatine supplementation may have great potential in treating Huntington’s disease (HD).

Creatine can improve (even extend) the quality of life

Creatine may improve or even extend the quality of life for persons who are living with HD.

Clinical trials on the link between creatine and dementia revealed that creatine supplementation may slow down the progression of Parkinson’s disease (PD).

The supplements appear to have long-term benefits for individuals who have PD.

Creatine SUPPLEMENTATION also shows improvement in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease.

Study on creatine supplementation

A study was done on the long-term effects of creatine supplementation looking into the potential side effects. Researchers observed 60 aged patients monitoring them for 2 years.

Some participants were given 4g/d of creatine while others received a placebo.

The main aim of the study touching base on the connection between creatine and dementia was to ensure proper renal function while using creatine supplements for neurological illness.

The study reported that elderly people with Parkinson’s disease tolerated creatine well. Renal or kidney function remained within normal limits.

An OCCASIONAL stomach upset was the only serious side effect that affected the participants.

Is creatine good for memory?

Some studies also indicate that creatine supplements may IMPROVE memory and concentration in healthy individuals. Even those who are suffering from early stage Alzheimer’s disease another common cause of dementia.

In 2003, researchers published evidence that taking creatine can boost mental performance.

This is after researchers conducted a study involving 45 participants.

After taking 5-g of creatine supplement daily for 6 weeks, the participants recorded better scores on intelligence and memory tests. Especially for tasks that they took under time pressure than the participants who were taking a placebo.

Another study published back in 2007 indicated that creatine supplementation helps cognition in the elderly. Participants of this study took 5-g supplement 4 times a week before taking spatial and number tests.

People taking creatine supplementation perform better

The people who were on the supplement performed better than the ones taking the placebo.

The June 15th issue of the Journal of Neuroscience indicated that creatine may offer protection to people who have Alzheimer’s. This is after a study was conducted on mice.

The animals were fed on creatine and after some time, they experienced protective effects on their brain.

A team of scientists from leading US research institutes including Cornell University and Harvard Medical.

School tested creatine on mice that had been given the gene for Huntington’s disease.

The professionals concluded that creatine supplementation in mice greatly improved survival, decreased bodyweight loss, slowed down brain atrophy development, and enhanced motor performance.

8 Creatine Products Reviewed

Product	Features	Pros	Cons	Check Price
Life Extension Creatine Capsules Dietary Supplement	4.5 STARS 120 capsules Take 2 capsules/2X day Unflavored Packaging ideal for travel	Certified GMO free Gluten free Finest raw ingredients USA made Easily absorbed Accept returns Vegetarian Specific for cognitive	Capsules more expensive than powder Suggested dosage small
Optimum Nutrition Micronized Creatine Monohydrate Capsules	4.7 STARS 300 capsules 2 capsules twice daily 2.5grams creatine/serving	Keto frindly Easy to swallow GMP certified Quality assured Creapure creatine Micronized monohydrate- studies support	Marketed for muscle building Capsules are large to swallow Higher cost than powdered
Nutricost Creatine Monohydrate Powder	4.3 STARS 5gms/serving 2X day Unflavored	Value for money Option of capsules GMO & gluten free Vegetarian Soy/dairy free No artificials No fillers	Marketed for muscle building Scoop provided is larger than 5gms
My Protein Creatine Monohydrate Powder	4.6 STARS 1 tsp (5gms) a day Unflavored 2.2 pounds	Monohydrate- supported by research Vegetarian/vegan Dairy free Gluten free Tested for safety USA made	Ziplock bag, some problems with seal Marketed for muscle build/strength
Ax German Creatine Powder	4.6 STARS 54 servings (270gms) 1 scoop (5 gms)/day Can buy in bulk (600gms/1000gms)	Creapure- high quality Monohydrate- research supported Strict quality controls No fillers 100% creatine Value for money
Dymatize Creatine Micronized Powder	4.6 STARS 10.6oz (300gms) 1 tsp (5gms)/daily Unflavored	Extra fine microns- proper dispersion Gluten free	No scoop given Limited information about product
Allmax Essentials Creatine Pharmaceutical Grade Powder	4.5 STARS 400gm tub 1 scoop (5gms)/daily 3 sizes (1000gms, 400gms, 100gms	Micronized monohydrate- research supported Gluten free Vegan Quality guarantee tested Fast absorbing Keto friendly
Universal Creatine Wafer Chews	4.2 STARS Orange or grape flavor 144 wafer chews 4 wafers (5 gms)/day 1.25gms of creatine per wafer	Tasty Easy to chew (no swallowing capsules) Creapure- quality	Artificial flavors Sweetened with sucrose and dextrose Marketed for muscle build/strength Some say not easy to chew Some don't like chalky texture

Creatine and Dementia Closing Thoughts

When it comes to the connection between creatine and dementia, there MAY BE HOPE for persons who have neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s disease.

Further research, however, needs to be done to present more conclusive results on whether creatine supplementation can help persons who have various types of dementia.

Bonus: What is Creatine

We can describe creatine (more popular in the athletic world than in neuroscience) as a nitrogenous organic acid made in the human body from three amino acids L-methionine, glycine, and L-arginine.

Amino acids are referred to as protein building blocks that are derived from dietary protein.

The body makes about one or TWO GRAMS of creatine daily. Organic acid makes up about 1% of the total volume of blood in the human body.

Creatine is produced in the pancreas, liver, and kidneys.

Humans CAN GET creatine from foods like meat and fish. People can also get organic acid from supplements.

The supplements are widely available and a person does not need a prescription to take them.

There are several uses of this organic acid some of which are supported by research and they include:

Enhancing Athletic Performance

Athletes use creatine supplements to help improve performance, especially when taking part in high-intensity training.

It is one of the most popular supplements amongst men who participate in sports like baseball, football, wrestling, and lacrosse.

Furthermore, it is one of the common supplements used in the manufacture of sports nutrition supplements and drinks.

Increases Body Mass

Older people mostly use creatine supplements to increase body mass. There are claims that when there is an increase in creatine content in the muscles, a person will get greater body mass.

Repairing Damage after Injury

Evidence suggests that creatine supplements may be useful when it comes to preventing muscle damage as well as enhancing the recovery process after a person experiences an injury.

Additionally, it may also have an antioxidant effect after a session of resistance training. Individuals may also experience less cramping after taking the supplements.

Some studies suggest that the supplements may also play a role in the rehabilitation of the brain as well as other injuries.

Some evidence suggests that it can help treat various medical conditions including but not limited to muscle diseases, MS (multiple sclerosis), congestive heart failure, diabetes, depression, Parkinson’s disease, and many others.

Creatine may also prevent skin from aging and enhance cognitive ability.

After getting to know what creatine is and how it can help people let’s look into the link between creatine and dementia.

How Dementia Affects The Caregiver?

Petra Boh Blog April 25, 2021October 15, 2021caregiver, dementia

When we investigated the effects of dementia, it is important to look into how dementia affects the caregiver.

This is because dementia is a progressive disease that does not only INFLUENCE the person with the illness but the people looking after them as well.

When a person starts to experience dementia symptoms, their close friends and family also begin a challenging journey.

They have to cope with the implications of the diagnosis as well as come to terms with the changes happening in their loved ones’ lives.

Impact of dementia on caregivers and family members

The friends or relatives who take up the responsibility of looking after persons with dementia are known as informal caregivers or carers because they do not receive payment for the care services rendered.

Challenges in Dementia Caregiving

While trying to meet the growing demands of persons with dementia, caregivers may go through several CHALLENGES that may include:

Burnout

Caregivers may go through a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion something that is referred to as burnout.

This can cause a change in attitude where a caregiver may transform from a caring and positive individual to an UNCONCERNED and NEGATIVE person.

This can also make a person experience fatigue, depression, anxiety, and stress.

Burnout mostly happens when a caregiver does not get the help they need or when they try to do more than they can handle financially or physically.

Most caregivers are also known to feel guilty if they opt to spend time or money on themselves rather than their loved ones who are ill.

Burnout is caused by a variety of reasons that may include:

1. NEGLECTING personal spiritual and physical health and focusing on the person with dementia.

2. Having UNREALISTIC expectations: Many caregivers tend to expect that they will have a positive effect on the happiness and health of the person they are looking after.

They may not get the results they desire which can be frustrating especially because dementia is a progressive disease. Most people with the illness will only get worse because it still has no cure.

3. Lack of CONTROL: Most caregivers will also become frustrated when they lack enough skills and resources to effectively carry out their care plans.

Some of the symptoms of caregiver burnout include:

Loss of interest in activities they previously enjoyed
Withdrawal from relatives and friends
Changes in sleep patterns
Feeling irritable, blue, helpless, and hopeless
Changes in weight, appetite or both
Always falling sick
Physical and emotional exhaustion
Feelings of wanting to hurt themselves or the person they are looking after

Increased Stress Levels

Increased stress levels is another way dementia affects the caregiver.

This is because it can be quite overwhelming to look after someone who has dementia.

Some of the symptoms that may be an indication that a caregiver is going through stress are:

Denial

This is where the carer denies that their loved one has dementia and believes that the person they are caring for will feel better.

Anger

Carers can direct anger to the person with dementia because they become more dependent on them and cannot handle the tasks they used to.

For instance, when a person cannot brush their teeth, the carer may think that the ill person is just being stubborn.

Anxiety

This is mostly brought about by worrying about the future and the role they will be playing in the life of the person with the illness.

Lack of enough sleep

Sleeplessness can be caused by a huge list of concerns.

It is hard to enjoy deep sleep when the carer is often worried about the well-being of the person they are caring for.

Lack of Concentration

This makes it difficult for the caregiver to perform familiar tasks.

Loneliness and Isolation

Most caregivers lack social support and contact which makes them experience sessions of social isolation.

Many carers will sacrifice the things they love including hobbies and pursuits so that they can spend time with the individuals who have dementia.

Health Complications

Increased risk of health complications is another way dementia affects the caregivers.

A survey published by the Associated Press and the NORC Centre for Public Affairs Research reported that 33% of carers struggle to maintain their own health.

The survey also revealed that caregivers skip personal doctor visits because of their caregiving responsibilities.

This is a HUGE problem seeing that 34% of carers are 65 years and above.

Caregivers are prone to developing health issues such as lower immunity, cardiovascular problems, slower wound healing, poorer immune response.

They can also EXPERIENCE higher levels of chronic conditions like arthritis, diabetes, anemia, and ulcers amongst others.

This implies that the carer may have to schedule more doctor visits and take more medication.

Research also shows that caregivers are more likely to experience poor sleep patterns, and start drinking alcohol and smoking.

Finance Complications

Dementia is an expensive disease. In 2003, the direct cost of dementia across the globe was recorded at 156 billion USD.

Caring for a person with dementia can affect family finances.

This mostly happens especially if the care was UNEXPECTED and UNPLANNED. Some caregivers may help cover some of the costs associated with dementia care out of their pockets.

Others may have to reduce their work hours or even quit so that they can get more time to look after loved ones with the progressive illness.

A survey from USAgainstAlzheimer’s uncovered 60% of dementia caregivers face financial problems when they are looking after people with dementia or Alzheimer’s.

Rewards of Caregiving

Even though taking care of a person with dementia can be stressful, there are also POSITIVE POINTS when it comes to how dementia affects the caregiver and some of them include:

1. Creating Strong Bonds: Thanks to the time the carers spend with their loved ones.

2. Relationship and Problem: Solving skills improve because caregivers must think on their feet most of the time when handling the changes that they face because of the disease.

3. Forming New Relationships through Support Groups: Caregivers meet other carers through support groups as they talk about the issues they can go through and how best they can solve them.

Closing Thoughts

There are both POSITIVE and NEGATIVE ways in how dementia affects the caregiver.

Informal carers play an important role in looking after their loved ones with dementia and their contribution should never be ignored.

How Do You Make A Dementia Patient Happy?

Petra Boh Blog, Prevention April 22, 2021October 15, 2021dementia, dementia activities, dementia and communication

Getting a positive dementia diagnosis can take a toll on a person which is why it is important for caregivers to identify ways to make a dementia patient happy.

Dementia describes a group of symptoms that are associated with a progressive decline of abilities of the brain.

The illness negatively affects many aspects of a person’s life including intellect, memory, insight, language, and social skills amongst others.

Different Activities to Cheer Up Someone with Dementia

To help persons with the disease cope with the changes that are happening in their lives, there are several tips you can work with to MAKE THEM HAPPY such as:

Including them in Social Activities

One of the ways to make a dementia patient happy is to identify ways in which they can have fun.

This includes planning creative activities, games, and social activities that they can enjoy.

When picking an activity, it is important to ensure that it is something that the person with dementia likes and can comfortably do.

Focus on feeling good now

Keep in mind that the idea is to have a good time without putting any pressure on the ill person.

Additionally, the chosen activity must not be too HARD or too SIMPLE.

If a person forgets the rules or makes mistakes when playing games, the carer should just let them be.

Most importantly, do not insist that the individual takes part in activities that they are not interested in.

The activities should only take place if a person is showing interest and enjoying them. Some activities to consider include:

Simple games such as staking colored rings
Painting and using crayons
Playing games like snakes and ladders, and Ludo
Antakshari

When it comes to social outings, a person with dementia may enjoy exposure to a new environment from what they are used to.

Caregivers must be very selective with the outings to avoid overstimulation, crowds, noise pollution, and constant movement.

Maintaining Strong Relationships

Many people with dementia will experience loneliness and social withdrawal which can make them sad.

To make them happy, their loved ones need to try and maintain STRONG BONDS so that they can feel like they belong even with everything that is happening in their lives.

This includes planning to spend quality time with the person who has dementia.

If a person still lives at home, their loved ones should visit as often as they can.

It is advisable for relatives and friends to liaise with the primary caregivers on the activities to take part in that will bring joy and laugher to the affected individuals.

Family members and friend should not forget them

At some point in the disease, a person who has dementia may have to move to a care facility.

Family members should not forget them in these new living spaces.

They should organize visits so that they can spend time with the suffering person at the facility. It helps a person feel loved and supported.

Relatives and friends should also familiarize themselves with the disease and know the changes to expect from the person in the various stages of the illness.

This gives loved ones a chance to act appropriately when they are around individuals with the disease to offer much-needed support rather than stressing them out.

During the visits, relatives and friends can bring along children, pets, photographs, letters, videos, or other items that are bound to create a pleasant experience for the individual.

Maximizing Comfort

Another suggestion on how to make a dementia patient happy is by making sure that they are as comfortable as possible at all times.

This includes ensuring that a person is not suffering from pain that may be causing a lot of discomforts.

There are times when a person with dementia CANNOT communicate properly to let caregivers know that they are in pain.

Are they in pain?

It is, therefore, the responsibility of the carers to keep an eye on them to know if anything has changed.

It is also important for the weak person to visit a doctor often.

The professionals can tell if they are having any medical conditions or pain they can treat or manage to increase the comfort levels of the person with dementia.

Maximizing comfort also has a lot to do with making sure that the areas where a person sleeps and spends most of their days are safe and comfortable.

Remove anything that can cause the person to trip and fall.

The spaces should also be kept neat and uncluttered.

Some home renovations like installing handrails in the shower may also be a welcome change.

Installation of alarms and heat sensors may enhance safety in case of emergencies.

Staying Physically Active

Encouraging a person with dementia to stay physically active is another step towards making a dementia patient happy.

Working out results in improved circulation, endurance, strength, and cardiovascular fitness.

Additional BENEFITS of exercise include:

Better sleep
Improved mood
Decreased likelihood of constipation
Reducing the risk of falls because of enhanced balance and strength
Maintenance of motor skills
Better memory
Reduced rate of mental decline associated with dementia
Improved social and communication skills
Getting a sense of accomplishment
Improved behavior like reduced swearing, acting aggressively, and wandering

Working out also prompts the body to RELEASE ENDORPHINS that are known to trigger positive feelings in the body.

Exercise does not have to be strenuous but something fun and enjoyable.

It can be as simple as taking a walk, engaging in sit-to-stand exercises, dancing, yoga, stretching, or light household chores depending on a person’s ability.

Effective Communication

Over time, dementia will affect the way a person communicates.

Caregivers should therefore learn how to communicate effectively with a ill person as one of the ways to make a dementia patient happy.

Being Rude, Condescending, or Aggressive will just not cut it.

This can make the person with the illness feel like they are being talked down to something that can bring up unwarranted behavior or responses.

It is best to speak slowly and clearly using short sentences. The tone used should always be calm, friendly, and positive.

Remember to give the affected individual enough time to respond.

Making EYE CONTACT when speaking can also be helpful.

Avoid creating complicated choices because persons with dementia respond to simple options.

Other ways of communication can also help when dealing with an individual with the progressive illness.

These include a gentle reassuring touch, gestures, facial expressions, and movement that can convey a message.

Closing Thoughts

When trying to figure out ways to make a dementia patient happy, it is IMPORTANT to understand that the disease does not everyone in the same manner.

This means that what makes a person happy may not work for the next.

Caregivers should therefore get to know the person they are working with to come up with the best plans that will keep them happy and safe as they move from one stage of the illness to the next.

How Does Dementia Affect Personal Hygiene

Petra Boh Blog, Signs April 20, 2021October 15, 2021dementia, hygiene

Personal care is something that many people with dementia struggle with as the illness progresses. Therefore it is important consider- How does dementia affect personal hygiene?

Dementia is a degenerative cognitive disease that affects many regions of the brain including the ones that impact motivation and memory.

For this reason, affected persons may find it hard to keep up with daily grooming and hygiene habits. They may (and very likely will) lose the will to take care of themselves or simply forget what needs to be done.

When this happens it does not mean that a person should cease practicing personal hygiene.

Depending on the abilities of the persons, they can get help from professional caregivers or relatives and friends to ensure they remain well-kept, clean, and healthy.

Is poor hygiene a sign of dementia?

Below we discuss valuable insights on some challenges that people with dementia may go through when it comes to personal hygiene and how to address the issues.

Taking a Bath

Showering is not all about smelling fresh and looking good. Taking a bath regularly can also help to prevent ill health such as skin complications and infections.

A person with the progressive illness may find it hard to complete a simple task like taking a bath every day.

It is one of the points that come up when talking about how dementia affects personal hygiene.

Some people may become disoriented in the shower or be scared of falling when getting in and out of the bath.

When a person cannot take a bath on their own, they may resist another individual washing them because they find it embarrassing and undignified.

Some of the ways to help a person complete a bath include:

Best bathing practices for persons with dementia

Setting reminders for showers or baths.
Ensuring the affected person washes their hands before handling food or eating and after they use the washroom.
Trying as much as possible to maintain old bath routines.
Breaking down the task into simpler steps like starting with gently wiping the face before moving to the rest of the body.
Ensuring a person is safe when taking a bath while giving them as much privacy as possible.
Installing bathroom aids like grab-rails or shower or bath chairs that enhance safety reducing the risk of slipping and falling in the bathroom.
Try alternatives like sponge baths if showering or bathing causes an individual distress.
Enhancing privacy by doing things such as closing curtains or pulling blinds. It might also be useful to cover any mirrors in the bathroom if the sick person can no longer recognize themselves.
Offering adequate lighting in the bathroom and making sure the room is inviting and warm.
Where possible, play soft music in the background and place scented candles in strategic locations to create a relaxing and calming atmosphere.
If a loved one cannot convince a person to take a bath, hiring a bath aide may be a helpful idea. The professionals get training on how to deal with people of all cognitive and physical abilities.

Dressing

People with dementia may also have a problem dressing. Some may wear the same clothes daily while others may mismatch their outfits.

It is also common for individuals with the illness to put on the wrong clothes for the current season. For instance, a person may insist on wearing summer clothes when it is freezing outside.

Changing clothes regularly is essential for personal freshness and hygiene.

At times, it may be hard to convince a person with dementia to change clothes as they should.

Carers may have to use tactful methods to get rid of the dirty clothes and replace them with clean fresh ones.

It may also help to complement a person when they put on new clothes as it may motivate them to do so often.

Hair Care

Neglecting hair is another answer to the query of how dementia affects personal hygiene.

This can include not combing or styling the hair or not washing the hair at all. It may be because a person forgets they need to handle this task or lose the ability to manipulate items like a comb or hair straightener.

To help with this issue, caregivers can volunteer to handle hair care.

Booking salon appointments can also be a solution especially if the individual used to frequent the establishments before dementia became worse.

Teeth and Mouth Care

People with dementia may forget to brush and floss their teeth. Lack of dental care may lead to extremely dirty teeth and offensive breath. Even gum disease.

Remind the individual to brush their teeth and assist them by putting toothpaste on their brushes and ensuring they have easy access to rinsing water.

Purchasing an electric toothbrush can help make the task simpler. It is also advisable to schedule regular dentist visits.

The professional will check on dentures, gums, and teeth to ensure they are healthy.

Toileting

People with dementia may find it challenging to use the toilet without some type of assistance. Caregivers should ensure that a person’s underwear is dry, clean, and changed as often as needed.

Their genitals should also stay clean at all times.

If an individual is experiencing incontinence problems, they should be washed carefully with warm water and dried well before changing their clothes and using incontinence products.

Shaving

People with dementia may forget to shave frequently. Others may not be in a position to complete the task because they can end up cutting themselves during the process of shaving.

If a person can shave without any problem, it may be helpful to switch to an electric razor. This is considered easier and safer to use.

Nail Care

Finger and toenails may become too long and dirty without the necessary care. It is important to properly look after the nails because they can cause pain and also breed infections.

If a caregiver is not around to help with nail clipping and cleaning, it may be advisable to enlist the help of a podiatrist who will offer the much-needed services.

Cleaning Ears

When looking into the ways of how dementia affects personal hygiene, a point that comes up is the lack of cleaning ears.

This can be dangerous because it can result in a build-up of wax that can cause unnecessary hearing impairments.

Carers may have to consult a doctor to learn the best ways to deal with ear wax.

Closing Thoughts

Discussed above are some of the ways describing how dementia affects personal hygiene.

It is, therefore, important for loved ones to ensure that persons with the illness take great care of themselves by offering a hand or investing in professional help based on the individual’s changing needs.

Keep in mind that even though an individual may need help with matters of personal hygiene, they may not readily accept the assistance offered.

For this reason, carers must commit to offering the proper degree of assistance while respecting the need for independence and privacy.

Remember that a great deal of patience and reassurance is needed when dealing with persons who have dementia and are struggling with personal hygiene.

Probiotics and Dementia – Is there a Link

Petra Boh Blog, Prevention April 14, 2021September 9, 2023dementia, probiotics

As research continues into the diagnosis and treatment of dementia, there has been growing interest in the link between probiotics and dementia.

We can describe probiotics as living microorganisms or “good” bacteria that offer numerous health benefits when ingested.

When it comes to enriching our gut with probiotics, we can do it either through supplements or foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, tempeh, and sauerkraut.

Furthermore, probiotics help balance friendly bacteria in the digestives system.

Other health benefits associated with probiotics include:

Reducing symptoms of various digestive disorders
Preventing and treating diarrhea
Reducing eczema and the severity of certain allergies
Helping with loss of belly fat and weight
Enhancing some mental health conditions
Keeping the heart healthy by lowering blood pressure and bad cholesterol
Boosting the immune system and protecting against infections

Can probiotics help with dementia?

In addition to the above probiotics and dementia benefits, there may be a possibility that probiotics can help boost cognitive function and mood while enhancing brain function indirectly.

Research indicates that the brain and gut are connected in a partnership that is known as the gut-brain axis.

Below is a brief description of the connection between the brain and the gut.

Link between the Gut and the Brain

The brain and the gut are linked through biochemical signalling between the central nervous system that includes the brain and the nervous system in the digestive tract.

The longest nerve in the body (vagus nerve) is responsible for information connection between the two.

Moreover, the gut is often referred to as the “second brain” because it produces many neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and gamma-aminobutyric.

The brain also produces the same neurotransmitters. These play a major role in regulating mood.

What affects the brain affects the gut

Probiotics for Dementia — The researchers found that when participants with mild cognitive impairment received the probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) for 3 months, their cognitive scores increased.

Because of this connection, experts explain that what affects the brain affects the gut and vice versa. When the brain senses trouble, it will send warning signals to the gut.

This is why during stressful events; a person may experience digestive issues like an upset or nervous stomach.

On the other hand, gastrointestinal problems like Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome, or chronic constipation may trigger depression or anxiety.

The brain-gut axis also works in the opposite direction.

For instance, the gut helps to regulate appetite by letting the brain know it is time to stop eating. When a person finishes eating, the gut microbes produce proteins that can suppress appetite after about twenty minutes.

The timing corresponds with the period people take to start feeling full. With this information in hand, it is prudent to ask how probiotics fit in the gut-brain axis concerning the connection between probiotics and dementia.

Some studies claim that probiotics can help boost cognitive function, mood, and lower anxiety and stress.

A small study done in 2013 reported in the Journal Gastroenterology discovered that ladies who consumed yogurt with a mix of probiotics two times a day for 4 weeks were calmer when exposed to images of frightened and angry faces compared with a control group.

MRIs also revealed that the group on yogurt has lower activity in the insula. This is the part of the brain that processes internal body sensations such as those emanating from the gut.

A Study on the Relationship between Probiotics and Dementia

Trials with mice have also recorded that probiotics can improve memory and learning and may also reduce depression and anxiety.

A study from Kashan University of Medical Sciences and Islamic Azad University in Iran states that it was the first to demonstrate the effects that probiotics have on people.

The team carried out a small clinical trial that went on for 12 weeks. The researchers observed 52 women and men aged between 60-95 years.

All the participants in the study were diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease one of the most common causes of dementia.

The group was divided into two. One group was given around seven ounces of milk enriched with four types of probiotics daily. Individuals in the other group were only given plain milk.

All the participants in the study went through a test measuring various mental abilities including attention, memory, and language skills.

The highest score people could get on the test was 30.

As the study was going on, researchers uncovered that the average score of the participants taking milk enriched with probiotics rose from 8.7 to 10.6. This was different from the group that was taking plain milk as their scores dropped from 8.5 to 8.0.

Probiotic supplementation can show improvements

Researchers agreed that all the participants performed poorly in the test, but they acknowledged that the difference in results between the two groups was quite huge.

The researchers concluded that they thought metabolic changes might be responsible for the difference in results.

For example, participants who were on probiotics also showed improvements in lipid profiles and insulin metabolism.

This is one of the studies that has raised questions about the link between the brain and the gut and how they relate to dementia.

The results of the study will be repeated in bigger studies before experts can understand the real benefits that the brain gets when a person consumes probiotics.

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Closing Thoughts – Probiotics and Dementia

The relationship between probiotics and dementia is still not clear.

The few studies that have been conducted on the topic show promising results. It is possible that in the future probiotics may be instrumental in the diagnosis and treatment of dementia.

More research needs to be done to find out how probiotics can help individuals with dementia. This will give more insight into whether probiotics can support a healthier brain.