Alzheimer’s disease, one of the most prevalent conditions among those of us in the population achieving senior citizenship, is still widely misunderstood and convoluted. For one thing, one must understand that the mechanisms behind this neurological disorder, as well as the treatment research are still yet in its early stages. In order to prevent, or even raise awareness for this disease, we must analyze who exactly is at risk, and how to identify the proper course for those who might have this risk.
The most fundamental beginnings and tell-tale signs of Alzheimer’s disease, which many people may have come across, is dementia. While there are various forms of dementia, and wide ranges of people of whom this disorder affects, Alzheimer’s disease is the most prevalent, and most specifically amongst those ages 65 and older. As one ages another ten years, the risk probability doubles to roughly 20% and may increase in severity. While the projected prevalence of this disorder may have been high for the next 50 years, many scientists assume that probability of those to be effected by dementia and Alzheimer’s will be 25% greater.
As research continues to reveal certain links as to who is at risk for Alzheimer’s, we have come to understand a few important facts. One of these facts is the genetic factors that affect your likelihood of suffering from Alzheimer’s. Those who are related to parents or immediate family members with Alzheimer’s are at a greater disposition for being stricken with severe forms of dementia and Alzheimer’s. Other neurological and developmental disorders, such as Down Syndrome have also been associated with increased risk of Alzheimer’s in the future of the patient.
Finally, risk factors have also shown that great probability of risk is related to the diet of the population. Cultures that have increased exposure to aluminum, as well as less healthy foods such as foods high in saturated fat, and cholesterol, have been proven to have an increased risk of Alzheimer’s. These dietary risks can be counteracted by proper preventative medicines such as anti-inflammatories as well as cholesterol lowering drugs.
While these risk factors may be proven to be associated with Alzheimer’s disease, other factors in the population may indicate who is likely to suffer from Alzheimer’s. Those of us who are smokers, and do not exercise regularly have increased exposure to the likelihood of Alzheimer’s disease. Again, if one does not exercise regularly, and has dietary issues (with saturated fatty acids and high-cholesterol food items) this may lead to other offshoot problems such as high blood pressure and arteriosclerosis, both of which can indicate a future with Alzheimer’s.
Finally one important facet of these studies has shown that, definitively, there are ways to tell who won’t get Alzheimer’s disease. Those of us who are mentally active at an older age, as well as able to stay mentally healthy (by exercise, friendships, and support/social circles) are less likely to get Alzheimer’s.
While today the prospects of those with dementia and Alzheimer’s may seem scary, especially in severe cases, it is important to know who is at risk for getting Alzheimer’s and who is not. Needless worry and agitation will only lead to negative health, and the importance of advances in biotechnology and medical research in this field, growing exponentially, should relieve any anxiety for the future – as the vaccine against the disease will no doubt be available soon.