What is beta-amyloid?

Many people know that Alzheimer’s disease is caused by proteins ‘going wrong’ in the brain. One of those key proteins is amyloid. But how does amyloid ‘go wrong’? And how does this potentially cause Alzheimer’s disease? Let’s find out. ‘Proteins, glorious proteins’ Proteins are the building blocks of life. They have so many vital functions … Continue reading What is beta-amyloid?

Behavioural symptoms and dementia progression

Behavioural symptoms and dementia progression Behavioural symptoms are common in dementia and cause often the greatest distress to the person with dementia and their carers. There have been also suggestions that behavioural symptoms can lead to a faster dementia disease progression. What is the scientific evidence for that? And if so, which behavioural symptoms are … Continue reading Behavioural symptoms and dementia progression

What is brain shrinkage/’atrophy’ in dementia?

What is brain shrinkage/’atrophy’ in dementia When receiving a diagnosis of dementia, many people hear for the first time the term brain ‘atrophy’. The term is usually given by the clinician providing the diagnosis when discussing their brain scan. For example, “you have mild atrophy in your brain, suggesting that you might have the early … Continue reading What is brain shrinkage/’atrophy’ in dementia?

Blood tests for Alzheimer’s disease – Are they becoming a reality?

A blood test for Alzheimer’s disease has been the ‘holy grail’ for dementia diagnostics for many years, if not decades. Not only would a simple blood test confirm a diagnosis much quicker but it would also allow better and earlier treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. However, only recently these blood tests coming into reality. Why did … Continue reading Blood tests for Alzheimer’s disease – Are they becoming a reality?

Dietary supplements – Do they make a difference in dementia prevention?

A healthy lifestyle has been shown to be good for our brain health and can reduce our risk of dementia. A key component of a healthy lifestyle is a healthy diet, with scientific evidence showing that the healthier our diet the lower our risk for dementia. However, the picture has been less clear for dietary … Continue reading Dietary supplements – Do they make a difference in dementia prevention?