What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Nearly 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease. Experts predict that by the year 2050, this number will rise to nearly 13 million. In 2021, it was the 5th leading cause of death among people age 65 and older. Living with the condition, or helping support a family member that has it, is stressful!… Continue reading What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Can Video Games Improve Memory?

For anyone living with a condition such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, maintaining cognitive function and memory can be challenging! However, research suggests that engaging in games and activities designed to stimulate the brain can have significant benefits. Today, PatientsLikeMe will explore how playing games can help improve memory, enhance cognitive abilities, and reduce anxiety… Continue reading Can Video Games Improve Memory?

What is Sundowning?

Sundowning, also known as “sundown syndrome” or “nocturnal delirium,” is a phenomenon characterized by increased confusion, agitation, and anxiety that tends to occur in the late afternoon, evening, or night. This condition is often observed in individuals with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, or other cognitive impairments. What are the key things to know about sundowning? Let’s… Continue reading What is Sundowning?

New Device Can Check for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s Disease

A wireless, noninvasive device developed by researchers at UCSD holds promise in the early detection of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. This portable diagnostic system employs electrical detection to identify three specific biomarkers. These are associated with neurodegenerative conditions, and are present in saliva and urine. The device incorporates a high-sensitivity transistor chip utilizing DNA for… Continue reading New Device Can Check for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s Disease

From tomatoes to turmeric: Can foods fight inflammation?

Inflammation is a hot topic. What’s it all about? And what’s the scoop on certain diets, foods and supplements, such as turmeric, when it comes to fighting inflammation? What is inflammation? Not all inflammation is “bad.” Acute inflammation is part of the body’s natural way of defending itself from foreign substances like viruses, bacteria, cuts and splinters.… Continue reading From tomatoes to turmeric: Can foods fight inflammation?

Natalie shares her story as caregiver for her mother with Alzheimer’s disease

When was your mom diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease? What was your mom’s diagnosis process like for you, for your mom, and for the rest of your family and friends? My mother, Maxine, was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease in April of 2010. She had been living on her own for about one year, following her… Continue reading Natalie shares her story as caregiver for her mother with Alzheimer’s disease

Do You Know Someone with Dementia?

Today, September 21st, is World Alzheimer’s Day. For this annual event, Alzheimer’s associations around the globe are coming together to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease, which affects an estimated 36 million people worldwide. This degenerative brain syndrome impacts memory, thinking, behavior and emotion. Eventually, those affected require assistance with all aspects of daily life. The… Continue reading Do You Know Someone with Dementia?