Alzheimer's Headlines

• New Research Results Presented at International Conference: Smell and eye tests could provide simple, early and low-cost tools for detecting memory decline. –An experimental drug called aducanumab dramatically reduced the toxic plaques found in the brains of people living with Alzheimer's disease, according to results of a Phase1b clinical trial designed to test safety and tolerability rather than effectiveness. The results hint that the drug may also be able to slow the loss of memory and thinking. Experts caution that additional, larger studies will be necessary to determine if aducanumab has an effect on slowing down Alzheimer’s. –The Alzheimer’s Association issues a $7 million challenge to scientists to speed drug discovery that target inflammation as an innovative avenue for Alzheimer’s disease therapy.

• Even a Little Exercise May Help Decrease the Risk of Developing Dementia: Seniors who get little-to-no exercise have a 50 percent greater risk of dementia compared to those who regularly exercise in moderate or heavy amounts, new research shows. According to the researchers, brain scans of study participants showed those who exercised were better able to withstand the effects of aging on the brain. Study participants aged 75 or older gained the most protective benefit from exercise against the onset of dementia.

• Growing Evidence Shows Smart Dietary Choices May Help Protect the Brain: The Alzheimer’s Association believes that a healthy and balanced diet that is higher in vegetables and fruit, and lower in unhealthy fat and processed foods can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Best foods: leafy greens; blueberries; nuts & seeds; fatty fish; olive oil, lentils, legumes, whole grains. These “brain foods” are also elements of the Mediterranean diet, which is associated with a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s.

• High Blood Pressure May Increase Dementia Risk: High blood pressure, particularly in middle age, may increase the risk of developing dementia, according to a study by the American Heart Association.

• Underweight Seniors May Have an Additional Risk of Developing Alzheimer’s: Weighing less may increase older adults’ risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. In a new study, researchers observed a link between lower body weight and more extensive deposits of Alzheimer’s-related beta-amyloid protein in the brain. The risk is particularly strong in people with the APOE4 gene variant, which is known to increase the risk of Alzheimer’s.

• Work that involves complex thinking and interaction with other people seems to help protect against the onset of Alzheimer’s disease: “We believe this could have potential implications for early intervention,” said the lead investigator of the study.

• Alzheimer’s Cafes Bridge the Social Engagement Gap: “Alzheimer’s Cafes” in the Seattle area provide a social engagement opportunity and sense of community for persons living with Alzheimer’s disease. Although this community experiences challenges from memory loss, they enjoy others who are living with the same challenges, as well as their care partners, friends and family. These two hours together offer understanding, acceptance, no judgment and a good time. For a list of Alzheimer’s Cafes in the area, visit www.fulllifecare. org/alzcafes/

• Sleep Issues and ‘Sundowning’ Are Common with People with Alzheimer’s: People with Alzheimer’s and dementia may have problems sleeping or increases in behavioral problems that begin at dusk and last into the night (known as sundowning). Some studies indicate that as many as 20 percent of persons with Alzheimer’s will experience increased confusion, anxiety and agitation beginning late in the day. Coping strategies include keeping the home well-lit in the evening, making a comfortable and safe sleep environment (consider room temperature, providing night lights). Door, window and motion detectors can alert family members when a person is at risk for wandering. Maintain a regular routine of meals, waking up and going to bed. Avoid caffeine, sweets and nicotine after the morning, also avoid big dinners. Encourage activity during the morning or early afternoon, avoid afternoon napping. Try to identify evening triggers, like TV, visitors, loud music, etc.).

• See a Doctor if You’re Concerned about Memory Changes. 10 early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s: 1) memory loss that disrupts daily life; 2) challenges in planning or solving problems; 3) difficulty completing familiar tasks; 4) confusion with time or place; 5) trouble understanding visual images and special relations; 6) new problems with words in speaking or writing; 7) misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps; 8) decreased or poor judgment; 9) withdrawal from work or social activities; 10) changes in mood and personality. Early detection of Alzheimer’s will help you learn about available treatments and plan for your future. For more information, visit www.alz.org/10-signs-symptoms-alzheimers-dementia.asp

• The Washington State Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association Can Help! The 24 hour/7 days per week Alzheimer’s Association Helpline provides reliable information and support to those who need assistance. Call toll-free anytime day or night at 1-800-272-3900. The helpline serves people with memory loss, caregivers, health care professionals and the public. By calling the helpline, you can get help with understanding memory loss, medications and other treatment options, general information about brain health, skills to provide quality care and help finding the best care from professionals, help with legal/financial/ living arrangement decisions.

Tips for Communicating with Someone with Alzheimer’s Disease

The Alzheimer’s Association offers these tips to help someone with Alzheimer’s communicate:

• Be patient and supportive. Let the person know you’re listening and trying to understand. Show the person that you care about what he or she is saying and be careful not to interrupt.

• Offer comfort and reassurance. If he or she is having trouble communicating, let the person know that it’s okay. Encourage the person to continue to explain his or her thoughts.

• Avoid criticizing or correcting. Don’t tell the person what he or she is saying is incorrect. Instead, listen and try to find the meaning in what is being said. Repeat what was said if it helps to clarify the thought.

• Avoid arguing. If the person says something you don’t agree with, let it be. Arguing usually only makes things worse—often heightening the level of agitation for the person with dementia.

• Offer a guess. If the person uses the wrong word or cannot find a word, try guessing the right one. If you understand what the person means, you may not need to give the correct word. Be careful not to cause unnecessary frustration.

• Encourage unspoken communication. If you don’t understand what is being said, ask the person to point or gesture.

• Limit distractions. Find a place that’s quiet to help the person focus on his or her thoughts.

• Focus on feelings, not facts. Sometimes the emotions being expressed are more important than what is being said. Look for the feelings behind the words. At times, tone of voice and other actions may provide clues.

Best Ways for You to Communicate

When communicating with a person with dementia, it’s especially important to choose your words carefully.

• Identify yourself. Approach the person from the front and say who you are. Keep good eye contact; if the person is seated or reclined, go down to that level.

• Call the person by name. It helps orient the person and gets his or her attention.

• Use short, simple words and sentences. Lengthy requests or stories can be overwhelming. Ask one question at a time.

• Speak slowly and distinctively. Be aware of speed and clarity. Use a gentle and relaxed tone — a lower pitch is more calming.

• Patiently wait for a response. The person may need extra time to process what you said.

• Repeat information or questions as needed. If the person doesn’t respond, wait a moment. Then ask again.

• Turn questions into answers. Provide the solution rather than the question. For example, say “The bathroom is right here,” instead of asking, “Do you need to use the bathroom?”

• Avoid confusing and vague statements. If you tell the person to “Hop in!” he or she may interpret your instructions literally. Instead, describe the action directly: “Please come here. Your shower is ready.” Instead of using “it” or “that,” name the object or place. For example rather than “Here it is,” say “Here is your hat.”

• Turn negatives into positives. Instead of saying, “Don’t go there,” say, “Let’s go here.”

• Give visual cues. To help demonstrate the task, point or touch the item you want the individual to use or begin the task for the person.

• Avoid quizzing. Reminiscing may be healthy, but avoid asking, “Do you remember when…?”

• Write things down. Try using written notes as reminders if the person is able to understand them.

• Treat the person with dignity and respect. Avoid talking down to the person or talking as if he or she isn’t there.

• Convey an easygoing manner. Be aware of your feelings and attitude — you may be communicating through your tone of voice. Use positive, friendly facial expressions and nonverbal communication.

For communication tips from other caregivers, join ALZConnected.org, our message boards and online support community. Every day, caregivers like you share new ideas and encourage one another.

Remember that while a person with later-stage Alzheimer’s may not always respond, he or she still requires and benefits from continued communication