Vascular Disease Linked with Alzheimer's


A recent study conducted by the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and published in the journal Brain revealed that there are strong connections between cerebrovascular disease and the development of dementia such as Alzheimer’s. Cerebrovascular disease affects the circulation in the brain and has a significant impact on the potential for cognitive decline. Eighty percent of Alzheimer’s patients in the study showed signs of vascular disease to different extents, such as blocked blood vessels, dead cerebral tissue as a result of insufficient blood, or even bleeding in the brain.

Managing blood pressure and cholesterol while exercising and eating a diet that promotes heart health early in life may potentially delay the progression of the disease in patients receiving senior care services. Foods such as fruits, veggies and whole grains can help lower cholesterol and improve vascular health, while exercises like running or playing soccer help to strengthen the heart, which pumps the blood through your brain. Since there are currently no effective therapies for preventing or curing Alzheimer’s, treating patients for existing vascular problems and promoting a heart-healthy lifestyle among younger generations of people may be the best defense against developing dementia caused by Alzheimer’s later in life.