German researchers have discovered that the loss of could be one of the first signs of developing . This finding emerged from observations of mice, PET scans of patients, and studies of brain tissue from individuals who had .
What Happens in the Brain
Researchers found damage to the nerve fibers connecting the olfactory bulb—the center for smell perception—with the area of the brain responsible for sensory processing. The immune system mistakenly attacks these fibers, leading to a loss of smell long before classic symptoms appear.
Confirmation in Humans
PET scans of living patients revealed the same changes observed in rodents. Additionally, studies of brain tissue from those who died of Alzheimer’s confirmed the chemical processes that trigger the destruction of nerve cells. This evidence supports the idea that loss of smell is a crucial early warning sign, as reported by Daily Mail.
Why This Discovery Matters
Experts emphasize that early diagnosis provides an opportunity to intervene before issues with and language arise. While there is no cure for dementia, modern methods can help slow its progression and improve patients’ quality of life.
Not Just Memory
Experts remind us that early signs of dementia can involve more than just memory. Changes in vision, hearing, touch, taste, or balance, as well as spatial orientation issues, can all emerge decades before a diagnosis is made.
The Enemy of Dementia – Purpose
New findings from American researchers, published in The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, have shown a link between having a sense of purpose and a reduced risk of dementia. The researchers observed over 13,000 adults aged 45 and older for 15 years and found remarkable results.
Individuals with a stronger sense of were 8% less likely to suffer from cognitive impairments, including dementia. This protective effect persisted even when accounting for race, ethnicity, education, genetics, and depression.
“Our findings suggest that having a sense of purpose helps the brain remain resilient as it ages,” explains Aliza Wingo, the lead author of the study and a professor at the University of California, Davis. Even for individuals with a genetic risk for Alzheimer’s disease, a sense of purpose was associated with a later onset of dementia.
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