Is there a link between mid-life heart health and Alzheimer’s disease?
Researchers from Johns Hopkins University studied 322 middle-aged people over a 20-year period to determine just that.
Their research, recently published in the Journal of The American Medical Association (JAMA), does find a correlation between mid-life heart health and the presence of amyloid brain plaques, a characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease, later in life.
For the study, these vascular risk factors were considered: being obese, smoking, having high cholesterol, high blood pressure or diabetes. Baseline data was obtained between the years 1987 to 1989, when the subjects’ average age was 52. And then from 2011 to 2013 the subjects were given PET scans to determine their level of amyloid plaques.
The research showed that those with one mid-life risk factor had an 88 percent increased risk for elevated levels of plaques, and those with two or more had nearly triple the risk. Researchers do say there are other factors related to Alzheimer’s, but this is a significant study that indicates a vulnerability period during middle age.
While research to identify a cure for Alzheimer’s disease continues, the fact remains that we need to provide care for those suffering with this condition. Ensuring that they are in a safe environment and that their personal care needs are met is of utmost importance. Often times that falls upon the shoulders of family members and friends. However, you may need help from an agency.
Assisted Living Services has been providing home care to CT seniors, including those with Alzheimer’s disease for more than 20 years. We care for individuals and couples in a variety of settings–from private homes to retirement communities and assisted living facilities. In every scenario, we have a mission to bring the best in homemaker / companion, live-in services and personal care to our clients.
Please contact us at (203) 634 8668 to schedule a consultation.
