U.S. News & World Report: Alzheimer’s Disease—Treatments, Medications and More

U.S. News & World Report recently interviewed Zaldy Tan, MD, MPH, medical director of the Jona Goldrich Center for Alzheimer’s and Memory Disorders at Cedars-Sinai, about the causes of Alzheimer’s disease—the most common form of dementia—as well as symptoms, treatments and advice for caregivers.

Alzheimer’s disease affects nearly 7 million people in the U.S., a number projected to grow as the population ages. Risk factors include age, family history and unhealthy lifestyle habits. Symptoms range from memory loss that disrupts daily activities to mood swings and social withdrawal.

Tan, the Carmen and Louis Warschaw Chair in Neurology and director of the Bernard and Maxine Platzer Lynn Family Memory and Healthy Aging Program, told U.S. News & World Report that the same advice for maintaining a healthy heart—such as consistent exercise, a nutritious diet and quality sleep—can also help prevent or slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

“What’s good for your heart is generally good for your brain as well,” Tan said.

For patients concerned about developing Alzheimer’s disease, Tan advises keeping an active social life.

“I encourage my patients to remain cognitively and socially engaged because social isolation and cognitive stagnation may confer an increased risk,” Tan said.

For those caring for a family member with a memory disorder, Tan advised pacing themselves for the immense challenges involved.

“This is a long journey,” Tan said. “It’s a marathon, not a sprint, so to speak.”

Experts also recommend that caregivers take breaks, share experiences with friends and find support groups.

Read the complete article from U.S. News & World Report.