Have you ever seen an elderly family member or your loved one forget important dates or have challenges completing everyday tasks? Losing track of time or misplacing items might seem normal, but these are subtle signs of something more critical. These occurrences may indicate changes in brain function with their progressing age and the potential risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. The brain's decline progresses slowly, but it can eventually take over the mind completely, erasing the essence of one’s life.
Often, we come across conditions where Alzheimer's has total control not only over the memory but also over the entire body. The coordination of the body depends on the brain’s signals to various organs, and when the brain fails to function properly, there is an error on the part of the neural network, which reflects on the whole body. In this write-up, we will explore the recent approaches to Alzheimer’s disease and offer tips for caregivers on supporting individuals living with Alzheimer’s.
Innovative Approaches To Alzheimer’s Care
Researchers are keen to stop or slow the progression of Alzheimer's, and they have had some unique breakthroughs. Let us explore the recent research that has been associated with Alzheimer's disease.
Functional MRI Scans
Recent research by the Queen Mary University of London indicates that functional MRI scans can help predict dementia 9 years before it manifests. Dementia is the most striking presentation of Alzheimer’s. FMRI scans are also quite fast compared to memory tests or measurements of brain shrinkage. This can help in predicting dementia early and will prove to be crucial for developing effective treatments. The irreversible loss of brain cells causes the symptoms of dementia, but monitoring the changes in the brain’s “default mode network” can be an eye-opener for effective treatments.
Plexin-B1 Protein Targeting
Another study by the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai has devised an innovative approach to halt the progression of Alzheimer's. The study promises that targeting the plexin-B1 protein will enhance the brain’s ability to clear amyloid plaques. Plexin B is a membrane receptor that plays an important role in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. The study suggests removing plexin-B1 using AI. In simple terms, improving how the brain cells interact with these plaques could potentially slow or eventually stop the progression of the disease.
AI-Based Eye Screenings
The University of Saskatchewan is involved in developing an AI-based imaging technology that can detect early signs of Alzheimer’s via eye screenings. The technology promises to be non-invasive and literally goes by the concept that “eyes are the windows to the brain.” With the early prediction of the disease using an AI algorithm and non-invasive technology, this project could soar high in the inventions with innovations category in the field of a terminal illness.
Caring For People With Alzheimer’s Disease
Looking after people with mild to moderate symptoms of Alzheimer's can be challenging and often takes a toll on caregivers’ mental health. However, asking for assistance or home care can help remove the burden and improve the patient's and caregiver's quality of life. Since Alzheimer’s is a slowly progressive disease, the responsibilities of the caregiver will increase gradually. They will require consideration of financial and legal terms to set up a care plan for the patient. Here are some of the tips that can help caregivers while taking care of people with Alzheimer’s.
Encourage More Physical Activities
People with Alzheimer's are more prone to losing hope when they see their body movements are not in control. To overcome this, or to slow the cognitive decline, it is important to keep the body moving. This means you must encourage them to engage in physical activities, be it walking, running, playing indoor sports, or yoga. This can improve their mood and that of others, too.
At 2050 Healthcare, we are committed to transforming the lives of individuals affected by Alzheimer’s through exceptional rehabilitation services.
We understand that every individual is unique and is at different stages of their condition. To enhance the quality of life for both patients and their families, we provide comprehensive support and compassionate care with a holistic approach. The journey may be challenging, but with perseverance, compassion, and cutting-edge research, one can look forward to a brighter future for all those touched by Alzheimer’s disease.
