AlzHub

Green And Black Tea May Delay Alzheimer's

According to a recent report, green and black tea may be helpful in delaying Alzheimer's.

Green tea appears better - it inhibited the activity of 3 different enzymes, as opposed to 2 for black tea.

But, it's early in the research and as the lead researcher states in this article:

"there is no published evidence showing that rates of Alzheimer's disease are any lower in tea-loving countries such as Britain, China and Japan."

So, enjoy your tea, but any definitive proof remains to be seen.

Link:
Drinking Tea Might Delay Alzheimer's Disease - Medline Plus

An Apple A Day...

A new study has given some evidence that eating apples may help in the fight against Alzheimer's disease.

Apples contain an antioxidant called quercetin.  Antioxidants protect against free radicals which can damage cells and can play a part in developing Alzheimer's.

Testing has only been done on rats so far, not humans.  But unlike experimental medications, apples are recommended to be eaten anyway.  There's no reason not to give it a try.

The study researchers also stated that apples should be fresh and that red apples are better than green.

Links:

WebMD

Alzheimer's Support Groups

One of the difficulties I've found with caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease is that I have so many concerns and questions yet it is a topic that doesn't make for good conversation among friends and co-workers.

Luckily, mom is living in an assisted living home and I can go to someone there with my questions.  But thay don't have the time to just sit down and talk about all the things on my mind, to let me vent a little.  And where do people who are providing care at home go?

Support groups.

Dealing with Alzheimer's is difficult and no one has all the answers.  I attend a support group once a month and it makes a huge difference.  We talk about how our loved one is doing, how we're doing, questions we may have, medicines, treatments, techniques we each have for dealing with various situations, doctor recommendations and anything else on our minds.

Just being able to talk with people going through the same thing feels great.  The weight I carry is shared by others.

You don't even need to talk if you're not comfortable.  Just listen.  You'll feel better knowing you're not alone and others are feeling the same fears you do.

A good place to find a support group in your area is through the Alzheimer's Association.  They'll help you find a local chapter and get you a list a support groups in your area.  Some local chapters even have online support forums and chat rooms. 

Many towns / cities also have senior citizen organizations.  Check your phone book or call your city to see if they can point you to a nearby support group.

Links:

Alzheimer's Association.

Alzheimer's Association - find your local chapter.