New research indicates that some people are more susceptible to developing dementia than other people are.
It has been observed for quite some time, but much of the evidence is anecdotal in nature, and not always supported by science. However, new research does indicate that some people tend to be more vulnerable to developing dementia than others are, and researchers now believe that they know why this occurs.
According to the most recent research, the three biggest risk factors when it comes to developing dementia are the presence of diabetes, exposure to traffic-related pollution, and alcohol consumption. Genetics also played a role. The team found that these external risk factors could further exacerbate the likelihood that someone would develop dementia if they were already genetically predisposed to it.
These risk factors also showed a positive correlation to cardiovascular disease, schizophrenia, and Parkinson’s disease.
This research comes out of the University of Oxford, in the U.K, and The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley in Brownsville. The team looked at 40,000 brain scans from senior citizens, along with the history of each individual, including their medical background and lifestyle. The team published their findings in the journal, Nature Communications.
The biggest thing to come out of this study is that it shows us that there is hope on the horizon for those that suffer from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. There is not a cure for many types of dementia. Right now, treatment involves managing symptoms and improving the quality of life that someone with dementia experiences. There are things that can be done to slow the spread of the disease in its early stages, but there’s no way to make the disease completely disappear. This study shows that preventative action can help someone to avoid getting the disease even if they are at a higher risk than others due to their family background. Limiting exposure to the manageable risk factors (alcohol and pollution) can play a big role in preventing dementia. Additionally, proactively managing health factors so that diabetes does not become a factor can also help.
It’s not a cure, but it’s a step toward helping people not have to go through the pain and suffering of dementia in the first place. Prevention remains the best policy. But for those that already have Alzheimer’s disease, finding the right care is the best thing you can do.
The right senior care might also be helpful for those experiencing dementia. Memory care is a type of senior care that is specifically designed to focus on the unique needs that those with dementia struggle with.
Memory care is an essential component of the assistance that individuals with dementia receive. If you have questions about how this specialized type of senior care can help improve the quality of your family’s life, please feel free to get in touch with us. One of our care professionals would be happy to talk more with you and help get your family steered toward the right care to meet your unique set of needs.
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