How Retina Changes May Indicate Alzheimer’s in Seniors

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects seniors' memories, thinking and behavior. Although there is no cure, early intervention can slow the progression somewhat. That is why the research presented at a 2013 Neuroscience Conference is being studied so carefully. It indicates that the thickness of certain retinal cell layers in the eye may help doctors determine the presence and advancement of Alzheimer's in a patient. 

The results of research work conducted jointly by The University of Hong Kong and Georgetown University Medical Center have strongly indicated in research laboratory mice that two key layers of their eyes' retinas had lost thickness. Alzheimer's is known to kill the neurons of the brain. In these animals, it also destroyed many of the neurons (up to 49%) in the retinal ganglion cell layer, which sends visual information to the brain through the optic nerve. 

Why is this important and what does it mean for future treatment? A simple scan of the eye may be able to determine if there is significant loss of neurons in the retina, indicating the presence of Alzheimer's disease. Measuring retinal thickness changes can lead to earlier diagnosis, testing of new medications for Alzheimer's treatment and better, more effective treatments overall. 

There is no known way to prevent Alzheimer's, just as there is no known cure. Seniors can work to lessen their risk of getting the disease by living a healthy lifestyle that supports brain and heart health. Some preventative steps include:

• Engage in regular exercise to improve cardiovascular health.
• Eat a heart-healthy diet. It should include plenty of fruit,   whole grains, nuts, vegetables, fish and olive oil.
• Engage in regular social interactions with other people. Have strong interactions with someone during each week. Do not live an isolated life.
• Participate in challenging mental activities daily. Work jigsaw puzzles, play chess, work on puzzle booklets such as fill-ins, crosswords, mazes, or logic puzzles.
• Challenge yourself to learn something new. Take piano lessons. Take an art class. Take Pilates.

The care givers of an In-home care agency are trained to recognize and watch for the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease so the senior's family can be notified to seek a medical screening and treatment as soon as possible. Home care workers can also assist seniors in mentally stimulating activities to keep their brains alert and active.

Common Myths about Home Care Services

Many families consider home care services to be a blessing to them and to their elderly loved one for whom they hired the service. The caregivers from the agency assist the elderly with the day to day tasks that are difficult for them to perform without assistance and make it possible for them to maintain some independence and dignity.

Still other families worry about having a stranger around their loved one or in their home. That is because there are some commonly held myths about residential care services. Let's take a look at these myths and separate fact from fiction.

                    Myth Number One: 

 Workers from Home Care Don't Really Care about Their Elderly Patients

This is false for several reasons. First of all, agencies screen and interview their employees carefully. They hire people who are interested in and care about the elderly. They train them in geriatric care giving. The agency will work with you to learn the needs of your loved one, then match him or her with the caregiver best suited to meet those needs. The caregiver will take the time to get to know your loved one, establish a rapport and help him or her feel comfortable with the caregiver. If you are dissatisfied for any reason, you can request a different caregiver by contacting the agency.

                      Myth Number Two:

 Only Elderly People Who are Really Sick Need In-Home Care Services

This is false. There are medical home assistance services for the elderly who are ill and medically fragile. There is also the type of elderly care agency that provides assistance with meal preparation, day-to-day activities such as bathing/dressing, does the marketing, and provides transportation for errands and medical appointments.

                      Myth Number Three:

The Elderly Are Often Mistreated by Their Care Givers 

This is generally untrue. Unfortunately, there are always a very few bad people out there. When you originally interview the non-medical home care company that you are interested in, ask how they screen their applicants. Do they require background checks? How do they train their employees? Are they licensed? Are they bonded? Ask how they are supervised. Do your due diligence first.

                      Myth Number Four:

I Won't Have Any Voice in Who Comes into Our Home/Senior's Home.

This is false. A reputable agency always works with you to find the right care giver with the skills and personality to be the best match for your loved one.

                      Myth Number Five:

I Can't Afford Home Agency Services.

This is not necessarily true. The cost depends on how many hours a week your loved one needs services and the level of care provided. It can be more affordable than assisted living or a nursing home.

                      Myth Number Six:

If a Senior Requires Round the Clock Care, Home Based Care Is Not an Option.

This is false. There are several agencies available that are able to build an experienced care giving team to provide your loved one with 24/7 care at home. 

For many families with elderly loved ones, home care is a true godsend. Don't let myths scare you away from a service that has great benefits for seniors and their families. Talk to the agencies and get the facts.