Alzheimer's and Increased Risk of Falls
Studies show that those with Alzheimer's Disease may have an increased risk of falls. There is also research that shows an increase in falls may help detect early stages of Alzheimer's Disease. What do researchers know about Alzheimer's and increased risk of falls?
Alzheimer's Disease causes changes in the brain, memory and functioning and is more frequently seen in the elderly. However, not just memory is affected. Lesions on the brain can apparently affect balance in the elderly as well. Studies show a relationship between an increased risk of falls and mild to moderate cases of Alzheimer's Disease.
A study by Japanese researchers published in Internal Medicine showed that falls were more prevalent in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's Disease. This occurred due to what is called white matter lesions on the brain. Also, certain medications called neuroleptics can lead to an increased fall risk in patients being treated for mild to moderate Alzheimer's Disease.
A more recent study by Washington University shows that an increase risk in falls can occur in the early stages of Alzheimer's Disease as well, before any other symptoms are even present. Brain scans for these patients showed the precursor for Alzheimer's Disease, the presence of amyloid even before lesions are the brain occur. These patients were twice as likely to experience a fall as those who did not show amyloid, the early signs of Alzheimer's Disease in brain scans.
This is important information because if an elderly person experiences a fall, it might be an indicator of the precursor to Alzheimer's Disease later in life. An elderly person who experiences a fall should be considered for further testing and the possibility of Alzheimer's Disease to begin any necessary treatment as soon as possible to reduce the severity of the progression of the disease. A fall doesn't necessarily mean that a person has Alzheimer's Disease, but it can lead to further testing.
REFERENCES:
http://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/internalmedicine/44/7/44_717/_article
http://yourlife.usatoday.com/health/medical/alzheimers/story/2011/07/Falls-linked-to-early-Alzheimers-disease/49449638/1
Published by Jolynne M Hudnell
Jolynne is a part-time freelance writer and independently-published poet. Jolynne has knowledge and experience in a variety of topics. Jolynne enjoys singing and writing poetry. Her published work in... View profile
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