[{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"BlogPosting","@id":"https:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/blog\/can-alzheimers-be-reversed\/#BlogPosting","mainEntityOfPage":"https:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/blog\/can-alzheimers-be-reversed\/","headline":"Can Alzheimer\u2019s Be Reversed?","name":"Can Alzheimer\u2019s Be Reversed?","description":"Alzheimer\u2019s is scary, overwhelming, and unpredictable. Watching someone you love struggle with the disease is one of the most difficult […]","datePublished":"2022-04-19","dateModified":"2022-04-19","author":{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/blog\/author\/ceastway\/#Person","name":"Developer","url":"https:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/blog\/author\/ceastway\/","identifier":1,"image":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/8ea7fc410413ee0b715aee4c6b2d912c09623af5f85eaca6f6d7e0a2c223e1df?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/8ea7fc410413ee0b715aee4c6b2d912c09623af5f85eaca6f6d7e0a2c223e1df?s=96&d=mm&r=g","height":96,"width":96}},"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Fox Trail Memory Care","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"http:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/logo.png","url":"http:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/logo.png","width":474,"height":250}},"image":{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"http:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/HOPE.png","url":"http:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/HOPE.png","width":432,"height":130},"url":"https:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/blog\/can-alzheimers-be-reversed\/","about":["Alzheimer's Disease"],"wordCount":1111,"articleBody":"Alzheimer\u2019s is scary, overwhelming, and unpredictable. Watching someone you love struggle with the disease is one of the most difficult things a person can experience. It can feel like there is no hope.Over 5 million Americans live with Alzheimer\u2019s, and while there still isn\u2019t a cure for the disease, there have been incredible advancements in medicine that make life with Alzheimer\u2019s a bit easier. More research is being done across the world that gives new hope to those facing this terrible condition. We\u2019re going to examine Alzheimer\u2019s as a whole, and what can be done to help stop this disease in its tracks.What Is Alzheimer\u2019s?Alzheimer\u2019s is a disease of the brain that impacts our memory and thinking skills. Generally, the progression of this disease is gradual, slowly destroying our memory centers, personality, and ability to perform simple tasks. It\u2019s also the most common form of dementia among older adults.Research shows that people with Alzheimer\u2019s have plaque build-up on their brains, called amyloid plaques, and tangled bundles of fibers, called neurofibrillary tangles. The plaques and tangles found on the brain are the main features of Alzheimer\u2019s, and research surrounding these features is still ongoing.Alzheimer\u2019s is also defined by the loss of connection between neurons (brain cells), which prevents our brains from being able to transmit messages throughout the body.The damage in the brain caused by this disease starts in the hippocampus and entorhinal cortex which control memory. As the disease progresses, it affects the cerebral cortex which is responsible for language, reasoning, and social behavior. Over time, many areas of the brain can be damaged to varying degrees.Fortunately, there have been significant advancements to provide better treatments and care for patients.What Causes Alzheimer\u2019s?While research is still ongoing, the main causes of Alzheimer\u2019s seem to be linked to 3 particular genes. These genes all relate to amyloid-beta production which are protein clusters that produce plaque. Our brain cells can be damaged by this plaque, but researchers are still trying to figure out exactly how this impacts our memory centers.There are other factors that are believed to have a negative impact on our brains, such as inflammation, vascular risk factors, and certain lifestyle choices. However, there is no evidence to suggest that any of these factors alone can cause Alzheimer\u2019s.Signs & Symptoms of Alzheimer\u2019sAlzheimer\u2019s can present in many different ways depending on what stage of the disease a person is in. Some more serious symptoms can show up as the disease progresses, so it\u2019s important to know the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer\u2019s when it\u2019s in the early stages.Catching Alzheimer\u2019s early allows patients the chance to try prevention methods to slow the progression of the disease. The signs and symptoms of the early stages of Alzheimer\u2019s include:Memory loss, such as difficulty remembering recent events or conversationsDifficulty performing basic tasks, such as cooking or bathingStruggling to concentrate, especially with abstract concepts like numbersPoor judgment & decision-makingChanges in behavior, such as depression or distrust of othersBecoming irritable or aggressive, along with frequent mood swingsSocial withdrawal & general apathy toward lifeWandering & a loss of inhibitionsPreserved skills, such as retelling stories or dancingDelusions, like thinking someone has stolen somethingCan You Reverse Alzheimer\u2019s?Doctors and scientists across the globe are committed to finding ways to slow and stop the progression of Alzheimer\u2019s. There is currently no cure for the disease, nor is there a way to reverse the disease once it\u2019s started.Practicing healthy habits may help slow the disease down, and potentially prevent Alzheimer\u2019s from developing, which we discuss next. However, there\u2019s promising new research that suggests ryanodine receptors in the brain might be the key to reversing Alzheimer\u2019s.Healthy Habits for Healthy BrainsMore studies suggest that healthy lifestyle choices may prevent, or slow, the progression of Alzheimer\u2019s. These healthy habits help keep your brain functioning properly throughout your life. These habits include:Exercising for 30 minutes, 3 to 4 days per weekEating a nutrient-rich diet, such as the Mediterranean dietQuitting smokingSleeping 7 to 8 hours every nightLearning new thingsConnecting with othersDrinking in moderation (1-2 drinks per day max)Caring for Someone with Alzheimer\u2019sCaring for someone with Alzheimer\u2019s can be challenging. If you are caring for someone with Alzheimer\u2019s, we have a few practical tips to help you:Take care of yourself firstCreate a schedule & routine to help your loved one stay focusedReduce distractions, like turning off the TV when it\u2019s not being usedProvide simple choices, such as choosing between 2 outfits or activitiesInvolve your loved one as much as possible with chores & tasksIf your loved one often forgets or misremembers things, try to avoid correcting them. This can be discouraging for both of you and it ultimately doesn\u2019t help. One of the best things you can do is support them and provide gentle reminders.Most importantly, you shouldn\u2019t feel guilty for taking breaks or time away to collect yourself. You can only be a great caretaker if you take care of yourself. Make sure you have time for your life, including hobbies, work, seeing friends, and practicing self-care. This will make you a better caretaker.How Long Can Someone Live with Alzheimer\u2019s?Depending on the age of the person at the time of their diagnosis, they can generally live for another 3 to 10 years or more. Alzheimer\u2019s doesn\u2019t necessarily equate to a shorter lifespan. Each diagnosis is different, meaning that life expectancy, symptoms, and quality of life can vary by person.When to See a DoctorSome signs to watch for in your loved ones include:Repeating statements & questions multiple timesForgetting conversations, appointments, or eventsRoutinely misplacing things in odd spotsGetting lost in familiar placesStruggling to find their wordsIf someone you love seems to be exhibiting signs and symptoms of Alzheimer\u2019s, talk to them about your concerns and ask them to go with you to see the doctor. Offering your support can make the process feel less overwhelming.Living with Alzheimer\u2019sLiving with Alzheimer\u2019s can be challenging, but is definitely possible. There are a variety of options available to help people with Alzheimer\u2019s and their loved ones cope with the disease and lead fulfilling lives.If you\u2019re ready to learn about memory care, please contact us today to find the right fit for you and your loved ones."},{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org\/","@type":"BreadcrumbList","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Blog","item":"https:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/blog\/#breadcrumbitem"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Can Alzheimer\u2019s Be Reversed?","item":"https:\/\/foxtrailmemorycare.com\/blog\/can-alzheimers-be-reversed\/#breadcrumbitem"}]}]