March 15th, 2010

Alzheimer’s Disease Computerized Test and Modified Lifestyle Could Help.  A couple of researchers at the University of Tennessee have developed a computerized test that is believed to help  individuals detect cognitive abilities indicative of Alzheimer’s.

The test is considered 96% accurate in detecting the disorder and only 70% of existing tests are accurate in detection.

Currently there is no cure for the disease, and it affects a person’s memory and cognitive ability. 5 million people live with the disease and it typically affects those 60 and over. About 5% of the population between 65 and 74 are affected by the disease.

Alzheimer’s research hopes to one day find a cure for the disease.  At advanced stages, patients are unable to live alone or care for themselves. 

It is not known what causes the disease.  Genetics, high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes are believed to be risk factors.

Some researchers believe that lifestyle modification can reduce the instance of Alzheimer’s.  These modifications include: exercise, drinking coffee, dietary supplements, drinking green tea, taking resveratrol, a Mediterranean diet, and eating garlic – among other things.

Risk factors include mercury exposure, obesity, high blood sugar, concussions and other exposures to different substances.

Some of the symptoms of Alzheimers include memory loss, difficulty planning or solving problems or completing familiar tasks at home, at work or at leisure, confusion with time or place, difficulty understanding visual images and spatial relationships, problems with speaking or writing words, misplacing things, poor judgement, withdrawal from work or social activities, and changes in mood and personality among others.

Source:

Web MD

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