Dementia & Alzheimer’s Delaware – Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2015

Lisa and Sean discuss new research regarding dementia. Studies show that low Vitamin D levels can lead to cognitive decline in the elderly. Those living with Alzheimer’s are more prone to this disease as well. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 5 million people are living with Alzheimer’s and it is now the 6th leading cause of death in the U.S.

However, there is new hope for those who suffer. Scientists say that one of the world’s oldest drugs, Salsalate, may actually restore memory in Alzheimer’s patients. This drug is in the same family as aspirin, but isn’t as commonly used today, due to newer medicines that have been developed. This drug has proven to be effective on mice, and will soon be tested on people.

Katie Macklin, from the Delaware Valley Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, says that awareness is key in the community and in congress to become closer to finding a cure. Congress funds the association’s research, and they have been severely underfunded in the past. One of the their main goals is to continue to spread awareness of the seriousness of Alzheimer’s disease.

Alzheimer’s not only effects those who suffer from it, but it effects their loved ones as well. One of the largest awareness fundraisers the Alzheimer’s Association hosts is their walk.