Many Older Adults Underestimate Dementia Risk
A survey of older adults revealed many older adults underestimate their risk of developing dementia and do unnecessary things to prevent it. Those who took the survey didn’t understand the connection between physical health and brain health, researchers found. Many people with poor or fair physical health thought their dementia risk was low, while those with good or excellent health were more worried about developing the condition.
Source: Chicago Tribune
Extra Virgin Olive Oil May Fight Build-Up of Toxic Proteins in the Brain
Researchers found extra virgin olive oil may have the ability to reduce toxic tau protein deposits in the brain. The accumulation of tau proteins leads to the development of Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia. Researchers theorize a protein found in extra virgin olive oil may counterbalance the accumulation of tau proteins.
Source: Forbes
No Link Between Statins and Cognitive Decline
A new study suggests there is no evidence of cognitive decline in people who use statin therapy and may even be protective to those with heart disease or diabetes.
Source: Medscape
Obesity and Other Factors May Speed Brain Aging
The brains of middle-aged adults with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or high blood sugar may age quicker than the brains of those who do not, research has found. In people who had the conditions, MRIs revealed lower brain volume — a smaller brain. They also found those who were metabolically challenged had more signs of subtle injury to the brain’s white matter.
Source: HealthDay
Lower Handgrip Strength Associated with Cognitive Impairment
A study has found older adults with weaker handgrip strength are more likely to be cognitively impaired. Grip strength can change because of loss of muscle mass that is common with age, however, it can also weaken due to changes within the brain, researchers found. These changes affect areas of the brain responsible for coordinating movement.
Source: National Institute on Aging
