Alzheimer’s disease & dementia

A new study from UNC School of Medicine researchers, published this week in Neuron, reveals a unique look at how junk food rewires the brain’s memory hub—leading to risk of cognitive dysfunction. This new research opens the door to early interventions that can prevent even long-term memory loss associated with obesity.

A new study led by researchers from the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine at the National University of Singapore (NUS Medicine) has demonstrated that artificial intelligence (AI) analysis of retinal photographs can predict an individual’s risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia, this first-of-its-kind study in Singapore highlights the potential of retinal aging biomarkers as a novel tool for brain health management.

Early and accurate diagnosis of dementia remains a major challenge. Standard approaches such as MRI and PET scans can provide valuable information about brain structure and function, but they are expensive, not always accessible, and often too expensive for repeated use.

Understanding the strategies and unmet needs of caregivers managing medications for people with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias may improve the lives of both caregivers and patients. A recent study, whose authors include Regenstrief Institute Research Scientists Noll Campbell, PharmD, M.S., and Malaz Boustani, M.D., MPH, describes the strategies and unmet needs of caregivers managing medications for people with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias.

UK researchers on Wednesday announced the trial of a blood test for Alzheimer’s which it is hoped will transform diagnosis of the disease.

Today, when an aging parent, relative, or friend starts to forget things, a firm diagnosis can be surprisingly elusive.

A simple brainwave test developed at the University of Bath has been shown to detect signs of memory impairment linked to Alzheimer’s disease years before clinical diagnosis is typically possible.

Adults with hearing loss (HL) with hearing aids have a reduced risk for dementia, according to a research letter published in JAMA Neurology.

An international study casts doubt on the widespread belief that higher levels of formal education directly protect against cognitive decline and brain aging. The study analyzed longitudinal data from more than 170,000 people in 33 western countries, making it one of the largest studies of cognitive aging to date.

In Alzheimer’s disease, proteins like amyloid beta form clumps, known as plaques, that damage the brain.