Advancements in Understanding Alzheimer's

By: Amanda Ziminski

Alzheimer's disease is a disease that destroys a memory and other mental functions. In Alzheimer's brain cells and their connections degenerate and die, which eventually destroys the memory and causes confusion. Currently, no cure exists, but medications and management strategies may improve symptoms.

Alzheimer's is very debilitating and affects one in three seniors. The need for better ways to screen and treat the disease is urgent. There has been a lot of progress made in Alzheimer's research over the past year including:

Gender Gaps: Women have been found to decline twice as fast as men do in memory and thinking skills, which may explain why more women are diagnosed with Alzheimer's.

Early Warning Signs: Scientists found that how well you did in school can be a good predictor of Alzheimer's later in life. This is because the cognitive reserve produced by intellectual skills inforced in school can compensate for the deteriorating nerves.

Promising Drugs: Scientists have found two drugs that have been proven to be effective, but more long term studies must be done.

Alzheimer's disease is a disease that has impacted almost everyone in the United States. Many of our grandparents, friend's grandparents, or other loved ones has been diagnosed with this unfortunate disease. This disease causes a great deal of suffering not only for it's victim, but their family as well. This is why it is important to push for research and better treatments.  

Works Cited:

Oaklander, Mandy. "Noteworthy Advances in Alzheimer's Understanding." TIME 100 New Health     Discoveries 2015: 49. Print.