"One in 9 Americans 65 and over currently have Alzheimer's. Of the top 10 causes of death, Alzheimer's is the only one that can't be cured or prevented." Peter Jaret
These statistics appear to be just for Alzheimer's Disease. Since Lewy Bodies Dementia is the second-most-often occurring type of dementia, these numbers are obviously much larger. "cannot be cured or prevented" -- sobering. But there is some good news: "A heart-healthy diet, physical activity, and social and cognitive stimulation can help preserve cognitive function." Jason Karlawish, M.D. But, these are not a guarantee. For at least the past 20+ years my loved one had those things, but he and I wonder if exposure to leaded gasoline, when he worked to put himself through high school and college at a gas station, is not the cause of his dementia.
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This blog is written to provide information and support to persons who are providing care for someone with dementia. A first indicator of dementia is when someone has trouble doing a task once familiar and easy for them. If you have begun to be concerned about someone's memory or cognitive processing, help the person receive a physical exam, to include lab work, and an appointment with a neuropsychologist for an evaluation of memory and cognitive processing.
May 15, 2014
Incidence of Dementia
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