StemCell Therapy

One of her sisters was tested for the APOE4 genetic variant; results were negative. This is no guarantee of a dementia-free future, however, since hundreds of genes are implicated in Alzheimers, Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia and vascular dementia.

Rather than get genetic or neuropsychological tests, Ms. Super has focused on learning as much as she can about how to protect her brain. At the top of the list: managing her depression as well as stress. Both have been linked to dementia.

Also, Ms. Super exercises routinely and eats what is known as a MIND-style diet, rich in vegetables, berries, whole grains, nuts, fish and beans. She is learning French (a form of cognitive stimulation), meditates regularly and is socially and intellectually active.

According to a growing body of research, physical inactivity, hearing loss, depression, obesity, hypertension, smoking, social isolation, diabetes and low education levels raise the risk of dementia. All of these factors are modifiable.

What if Ms. Super started having memory problems? I fear I would get really depressed, she admitted. Alzheimers is such a horrible disease: To see what people you love go through, especially in the early stages, when theyre aware of whats happening but cant do anything about it, is excruciating. Im not sure I want to go through that.

Dr. Gefen of Northwestern said she tells patients that if cognitive testing is something thats going to stress you out, then dont do it.

Nigel Smith, 49, had a change of heart after caring for his mother, Nancy Smith, 81, whos in hospice care in the Boston area with Alzheimers. When he brought his mother in for a neuropsychological exam in early 2017 and she received a diagnosis of moderate Alzheimers, she was furious. At that point, his mother was still living in the familys large home in Brookline, Mass., which she refused to leave.

See the original post here:
Stalked by the Fear That Dementia Is Stalking You - The New York Times

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