Dementia Society of America

How planting seeds can boost brain health.   Did you know that the simple act of growing a plant from seed is not just a garden adventure but also a scientifically proven way to improve brain health? In this article, we’ll explore the scientific aspects of how nurturing a seed into a thriving plant can positively affect our brains, providing a green pathway to enhanced cognitive well-being.   Nature Connection Scientific studies have shown that connecting with nature, even in small ways like growing plants, has profound effects on the brain. When we engage with plants, the brain releases... Continue Reading

A study of Fruit flies has uncovered new insights into the brain’s sense of direction and how regions of the brain communicate to help us find our way.   Researchers have discovered that people living with aphasia have more trouble coming up with words when they’re prompted by images and words that carry negative emotional meaning.   Scientists have developed the first 3D-printed brain tissue that can grow and function like typical brain tissue, which will help researchers better understand how brain cells communicate.   Research suggests that just thinking about spending time with your... Continue Reading

Unlocking brain health and resilience.   Remarkable discoveries have been unfolding among the congregation of the School Sisters of Notre Dame. This unique exploration into the lives of these dedicated women has provided valuable insights into the mysteries of brain health and cognitive resilience. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of the Nun Study and uncover the secrets it holds about maintaining a healthy brain, including a peculiar finding that nuns with the pathology of a Dementia did not necessarily exhibit its symptoms.   The Nun Study Initiated in 1986 by Dr. David Snowdon, the... Continue Reading

Click here to read online. Originally Published on https://www.dementiasociety.org/ Continue Reading

Originally Published on https://www.dementiasociety.org/ Continue Reading

When you’re caring for a parent or a loved one living with Dementia at home, setting up a safer space may help prevent them from tripping, falling, and becoming confused. Creative home updates that help your loved one see or find objects more easily and move through the home independently may also help keep them happier, healthier, and safer at home for longer. Here’s how to make a home Dementia-friendly so they can make the most of their daily living space. For starters, basic home safety is an essential factor in Dementia care. “People living with Dementia are more vulnerable to trips... Continue Reading

Falling asleep and staying asleep are incredibly important for brain health and cognitive function. Sleep may be affected by specific causes of Dementia, but in addition, some studies show that poor sleep might actually contribute to the development of a Dementia. Many people struggle with getting adequate sleep due to various factors, including stress, activity level, and poor sleep hygiene. Electronics have found their way into many aspects of modern life. Adults and children have more access to LED screens and electronic entertainment today than at any other time in history. While many of these... Continue Reading

There is accumulating evidence that dementia has a long preclinical phase that may begin years or even decades before a clinical diagnosis.1 In addition, data indicating the preclinical signs of dementia and declines in memory and other cognitive skills also include motor skill difficulties. It’s difficult to tease out regular age-related changes in coordination and balance from those motor skills that put people at increased risk for dementia. Measures of preclinical impairments include changes in gait and walking speed, loss of muscle mass and strength, as well as reduced manual agility... Continue Reading

Vascular Dementia is a type of Dementia that is caused by damage to blood vessels in the brain. This damage can lead to a reduction in blood flow to the brain, which can cause cognitive decline, mood changes, and behavioral disturbances. Vascular Dementia is the second most common type of Dementia after Alzheimer’s disease. There is no cure for Vascular Dementia, but there are a number of treatment options that can help to improve quality of life. These treatment options include: Managing underlying conditions that contribute to Vascular Dementia Medications to manage symptoms Cognitive... Continue Reading

When 77-year-old Anne (pseudonym) was diagnosed with Dementia, her family wanted to keep her engaged in art. After all, she was a successful abstract artist for decades, so why stop now? Her family expected her to use the art studio in her condo–which was full of all sorts of supplies–like she previously did, but that didn’t happen. “The family didn’t understand how they needed to help with cueing and getting [Anne] engaged,” says Jeannine Forrest, Dementia care coach and advisory council member for Dementia Society of America®. “We coached the family about how to bring out just... Continue Reading