LATEST ALZHEIMER'S RESEARCH NEWS YOU CAN USE

Less educated people tend to be diagnosed with Alzheimer's at a slightly later age than those who are highly educated, but may have advanced further.

People with early Alzheimer's disease had more car accidents and performed more poorly on road tests than their mentally sharp peers.

People with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia live, on average, about four and a half years after their…

Injections of an arthritis drug showed benefits within minutes, but further study is needed.

Statin drugs did not ward off dementia in one report.

Memory lapses of normal advancing age may be due to communications breakdowns within the brain in otherwise healthy older adults. Cognitive decline and brain problems may occur even in the absence of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia that ravage the brain more severely.

Antipsychotic medications, like like Haldol and Risperdal, commonly given in nursing homes to fight agitation in people with Alzheimer's may do little to curb aggressive behaviors in patients with impaired intellectual abilities.

Seniors who walked regularly had a lower risk of dementia.

Reading and crossword puzzles may build up cognitive reserve.

Here's a roundup of some of the recent research, along with some simple ways to help keep your thinking sharp into 2008, and well beyond.

Relatives of someone with Parkinson's were found to be at increased risk for dementia.

A varied diet high in heart-healthy fats is good for the brain.

Hypertension is linked to mild cognitive impairment.

High blood pressure, chest pains or irregular heart beat linked to impaired memory.

A large new study points to potential benefits from long-term use of beta-carotene supplements.

New survey shows prevalence of Alzheimer's nationwide.

Markers in the blood may signal dementia two to six years before debilitating memory loss.

A Mediterranean diet may help people with Alzheimer's live longer.

Statin drugs, taken for the heart, also have effects on the brain.

Not finishing high school may lead to memory problems.

Discipline and purpose may be markers for a dementia-resistant brain.

Aricept, a drug commonly prescribed to treat cognitive decline in mild to moderate Alzheimer's, proved no more effective than a placebo for easing agitation, restlessness, and other behavioral symptoms of the disease.

Carrying excess weight has been linked to a variety of chronic ailments, including heart disease, strokes, and diabetes. Being overweight in middle age has also been linked to an increased risk for Alzheimer's disease late in life...

Counseling and support is not just good for easing stress in those who care for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease. It may also boost physical health as well...