There’s not a singular reason people develop Alzheimer’s Disease, according to research Certain risk factors such as lifestyle, heredity and family history play a role. New research reemphasizes sleep as a big contributor.
ALZHEIMER’S: MOST COMMON TYPE OF DEMENTIA
Alzheimer’s attacks the part of the brain which dictates control, language and memory. A person will begin to show memory loss, personality changes, or function abnormally at the onset of the disease. Eventually, the symptoms get worse. The disease affects a person’s ability to live a normal life and communicate with other people. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, symptoms typically begin to appear for people age 60 and older.
There are a number of disappearance cases involving senior citizens with Alzheimer’s disappear. The endings are tragic at times.
In San Antonio, 69-year-old Maria Llamas has yet to be found. Llamas has been missing since November 20th of 2016. Her family said she had Alzheimer’s and was last seen leaving the Poteet Flea Market. Multiple search groups and volunteers have poured resources to help find her in the last few years. Family members are holding on to hope. They told News 4 San Antonio, they have faith Llamas will make it back home.
NEW RESEARCH
According to the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, older people who do not get deep sleep are more at risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Researchers found that they have higher levels of the brain protein, tau. They conducted a study using a monitor that measures brain waves during sleep. The adults who didn’t get deep sleep had higher levels of tau.
The research underscores previous findings linking sleep and Alzheimer’s. Researchers in that study found that one night of bad sleep increases the build up of a protein called beta-amyloid in the brain. This protein is connected to impaired brain function and Alzheimer’s.
HOW TO HELP
There are several ways you can help a loved one to get more sleep. You can help the situation by creating a routine for your loved on according to Andy Cruz, vice president of Pride PHC, a San Antonio-based home care and private care firm providing assistance to senior citizens and the homebound for 20 years.
“Routines help you and your family to simplify their life,” advised Cruz. “This reduces confusion and frustration on their end. Remember, your words and actions matter. It’s easy to get frustrated, but be patient.”
Cruz also says that a visit to the doctor will be beneficial for you and your loved one. A medical professional can fully evaluate what treatment will be most effective. We understand that providing full- time care is more than a one person job, and our caregiving team can allow you the time to care for yourself, as well as your family member.
“Alzheimer’s not only impacts the person with the disease but their entire family,” said Cruz. “Our caregivers at Pride PHC can serve as a support system. We work hard to ensure your loved one is treated with dignity and compassion.”
