Dementia

A 12-week program requiring older adults to read out loud, write by hand, and solve basic math problems for 30 minutes a day resulted in measurable improvements on cognitive tests.

People with Down syndrome face an elevated risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. A recent study indicates that simple blood tests can accurately detect early brain changes, paving the way for easier diagnosis and inclusive clinical trials.

A recent review in Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience suggests that popular weight-loss and diabetes drugs might help clear brain proteins associated with Alzheimer's disease. While animal studies show promise, human data remains limited.

High levels of a specific blood protein during midlife suggest an increased risk for vascular dementia. Researchers found evidence that this protein might alter immune activity and contribute to the gradual loss of healthy brain tissue.

A new scientific review suggests that polyphenols—natural compounds found in berries, tea, and olive oil—may help protect the brain from age-related decline. However, researchers emphasize eating whole foods over relying on high-dose supplements.

By genetically enhancing a specific protein in mice, scientists successfully reduced the toxic tau tangles associated with Alzheimer’s disease. The study offers new insights into how the brain defends itself against severe neurodegenerative damage.

A new study suggests that not all sitting is created equal. While frequent TV watching is linked to reduced brain volume, mentally engaging desk work is linked to preserved brain structure in older adults.

A new study spanning 14 years suggests that optimism could be a powerful tool for healthy aging. Researchers found that older adults with a more positive outlook on life have a 15% lower risk of developing dementia.

A new study explores the complex link between high-fat diets and Alzheimer's risk. Researchers found dietary fat is associated with faster brain atrophy in healthy older adults, but a slower rate of decline in those with mild cognitive impairment.

Anxious and easily stressed individuals face an elevated risk of developing dementia. New research suggests a biological reason behind this link: highly neurotic people tend to have fewer protective omega-3 fatty acids running through their bloodstream.

Severe infections can trigger widespread inflammation that damages the aging brain. Now, a wave of large-scale studies suggests that routine adult vaccinations could act as a protective shield, lowering the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

Scientists have discovered that an experimental copper drug can unclog the brain's natural waste removal pumps. In a recent study, the treatment successfully cleared toxic Alzheimer's proteins and significantly improved spatial memory in mice.

A new study suggests that older adults who receive the recombinant shingles vaccine have a significantly lower risk of developing dementia. The findings point to a surprising brain-health benefit for a routine immunization.

As cannabis use grows among older adults, so do concerns about memory loss. However, a new study found that prior or occasional cannabis use is not associated with faster cognitive decline or a higher risk of dementia.