Every week we scour the news for the latest headlines in Alzheimer’s stories, care, treatment, and prevention. Here are this week’s biggest stories for the week of October 22nd, 2012 – October 28th, 2012.
Newly Discovered Compound Shows Hope in Alzheimer’s Struggle
Researches from the Mount Sinai Hospital and School of Medicine have discovered a compound that they believe could potentially reverse memory loss. The study involved the compound, IRX4204, which stimulated brain receptors that halted cognitive deterioration in lab mice. This finding is especially significant in that the compound specifically prevents the build up of protein and amyloid plaque, which are root causes of Alzheimer’s disease.
Hormone Therapy May Cut Alzheimer’s Risk in Women
The latest data from a long-running study of hormone therapy reported in Neurology suggests that women who started taking hormone replacements within five years of menopause were 30% less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than women who started years later. The findings add to evidence suggesting that taking hormone treatments around the time of menopause may be doing more than just helping women cope with hot flashes and night sweats.
A Personal Story of a Father’s Struggle and a Son’s Healing through Alzheimer’s
Barry Michels, an accomplished psychotherapist and author, begins his story with the details of a strained relationship with his father. He delves into questions of his father loving him and receiving limited affection as a young child. Michels then receives the heart breaking news of his father’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis. As time goes on, the disease becomes the impetus for their reconciliation.
