New studies are leaning towards the potential of an inflammatory response in the brain, which poses the question: could Alzheimer’s disease be an autoimmune condition?
Crohn’s disease, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis sufferers know firsthand the impact of an overactive immune system. Our immunity is meant to protect us from bacteria, viruses, and other infections that need to be eradicated. Yet with an autoimmune disease, antibodies attack healthy, non-invasive cells, generating inflammation and other unwanted effects.
In earlier Alzheimer’s disease research, those notorious amyloid plaques have been the focus. Yet we also recognize that even in healthy brains, these plaques are in place and are thought to conduct some type of helpful purpose. The immune system concentrates on these plaques, destroying them and possibly healthy cells in the process: indicative of a possible autoimmune response.
This unconventional new method to studying and developing treatment possibilities for Alzheimer’s has won lead author of research, Don Weaver, MD, PhD, of the Krembil Brain Institute, an Oskar Fischer Prize, which “recognizes innovative ideas in Alzheimer’s research that look beyond prevailing theories.”
It provides optimism that a cure for the illness could be around the corner. For the time being, turn to Chesapeake Caregivers for skilled, creative, and compassionate dementia care services that help people with Alzheimer’s disease continue to live to their fullest potential in the homes they love. We are experienced in assisting those with dementia and the families who love them to better deal with some of the more troubling facets of the disease, like:
• Wandering and requesting to go “home”
• Agitation and/or aggression
• Sundowning
• Repetitive behaviors and conversations
• Loss of memory
We will partner with your family to provide the right amount of care needed to ensure you have the breaks from caregiving you need for your own health and wellbeing. Taking time away to recharge is beneficial for you and your family as well as for the individual with dementia. A well-rested family caregiver is more patient and better equipped to offer the level of care a person with dementia needs and deserves.
Contact us at 410.919.0190 to schedule a free in-home meeting to learn more about our specialized services.
This content was derived from Alzheimer’s disease research and Bright Focus Foundation
