Types of Alzheimer's Disease
Different researchers classify Alzheimer's Disease using vastly different stages. Alzheimer's Disease has a genetic component that becomes active in some people and dormant in others. Alzheimer’s creates an environment that promotes brain changes in those affected. Lastly, amyloid plaque is the brain’s protective response to vastly different lifestyle insults.
Alzheimer’s Disease is an imbalance of multiple systems within the body.
People with Alzheimer’s disease usually have
more than one type and present multiple risk factors.
One of the things I like most about breaking
Alzheimer’s into types is once you know where you stand, it is easy to begin to
resolve. Dr. Bredesen’s books provide many examples from his
patients.
Also, please keep in mind that in the descriptions below, I am cutting and pasting most of the information. I do not want to risk misinterpreting any of Dr. Bredesen’s research and misinforming you.
Type 1
Type 1’s primary characteristic is inflammation. It tends to run in families as it is common in people who carry one or two ApoE4 alleles (ApoE in itself is considered an inflammatory gene). Individuals begin to lose the ability to store new information in the hippocampus – for individuals who carry two copies of ApoE4 this tends to start in the late fifties or early sixties. For those with no copies of ApoE4, symptoms present typically in the sixties or seventies. A reduced hippocampal volume – chronic inflammation encourages the brain to destroy synapses faster than it creates them.
Biochemical Markers of Type 1
Type 2
Type 2’s primary characteristic is low levels
of nutrients, hormone factors, and/or trophic factors. Type 2 also occurs
more frequently in those who carry one or two copies of the ApoE4 allele, but
the symptoms tend to initiate about a decade later than the inflammatory Type
1. Individuals begin to lose the ability to form new memories in the
hippocampus. However, there is little to no evidence of inflammation –
sometimes inflammatory markers may be lower than normal.
Biochemical Markers of Type 2
Levels of hormones such as thyroid, adrenal,
estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and pregnenolone tend to be suboptimal.
The optimal hormone ranges are:
A decrease in serum Vitamin D levels. Normal
Vitamin D levels should be 50-80 ng/mL.
An increase in homocysteine levels can occur.
Normal homocysteine levels should be less than or equal to 7 μmol/ L
(homocysteine is also seen to increase in Type 1)
Insulin resistance can occur OR insulin levels
may be too low.
Type 1.5
Type 1.5’s primary characteristic is insulin
resistance (diabetes). Type 1 and Type 2 Alzheimer’s Disease can occur together
– often seen with neural inflammation in addition to the reduced support for
brain synapses. A commonly seen combination of type 1 and type 2 AD is known as
Type 1.5 or glycotoxic Alzheimer’s Disease.
Biochemical Markers of Type 1.5
Although characteristics are similar to those
found in Type 1 and Type 2 AD, blood glucose levels and hemoglobin A1c are
chronically high in Type 1.5 which results in inflammation.
High levels of insulin that are secreted in
response to this high blood glucose level lead to insulin resistance. This
results in a loss of trophic support. Trophic support
refers to a variety of chemical signals that neurons need to continue living.
Brain cells die and the brain shrinks when you experience a loss of trophic
support.
Neurons are energetically expensive cells. They
use a lot of oxygen and require a large expenditure of energy in the form of
ATP to do their normal functions. As part of homeostatic adjustment, the body
prefers to minimize extra energy usage. However, since neurons are critically
important for healthy functioning, they receive signals in the form of
chemicals that tell them to continue working. These chemicals are called
trophic factors.
Many of these trophic factors are synthesized
and released by glial cells of the nervous system, the non-neuronal cells that
interact closely with the neurons. Glial cells, particularly the astrocytes and
Schwann cells, are well-known producers of trophic support molecules.
One of the best-characterized trophic support
molecules is called brain-derived neurotrophic factor, or BDNF.
BDNF is a large protein. BDNF is normally synthesized and produced by cells of
the nervous system and is important for making changes in neurons or for the
growth of nerve cells. BDNF signals through the activity of several different
receptors, the most well-known being the TrkB receptor.
Other neurotrophic factors used by the nervous
system that are important as trophic support molecules include nerve growth
factor (NGF), neurotrophin-3, glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), and
ephrins. Trophic factors, such as NGF and BDNF, control the development and
survival of specific groups of neurons.
Type 1, Type 1.5 & Type 2 Alzheimer’s Disease lead to the imbalance between the production and destruction of neural synapses.
Type 3
Type 3’s primary characteristic is exposure to
toxins such as mercury, toluene, benzene (candles), or mycotoxins (mold). Type
3 tends to occur in those who have the ApoE3 allele rather than ApoE4 and does
not typically run in families.
Type 3 hits individuals at younger ages,
typically late forties to early sixties. Symptoms do not begin with memory loss
but rather with cognitive difficulties involving numbers, speech, or
organization. Individuals will start seeing difficulties with:
The brain ultimately loses recent and old
memories.
Patients with Type 3 are often diagnosed
initially with something other than Alzheimer’s Disease such as depression or
frontotemporal dementia.
Biochemical Markers of Type 3
Type 4
Type 4’s primary characteristic is low blood
flow to the brain. Type 4 or Vascular Alzheimer’s Disease, is caused by a
reduction of blood flow to the brain, which ultimately deprives the brain of
essential oxygen and nutrients. The brain is an extremely vascularized tissue,
meaning it requires large amounts of oxygen. A lack of oxygen to the brain
leads to hypoperfusion (low blood flow) and compromises the blood-brain barrier
which allows for harmful substances to leak in and damage neurons. Cerebral vasculature
is extremely important as it is one way the body clears the accumulation of
amyloid-beta.
Biochemical Markers of Type 4
“Leakiness” present in vascular tissues.
Individuals with cardiovascular disease have a
high risk for Type 4 Alzheimer’s.
These individuals do best when they prioritize
healing underlying insulin resistance.
Type 5
Type 5’s primary characteristic is brain
damage. Type 5 or trauma-induced Alzheimer’s, results from traumatic brain
injuries (TBI) which disrupt normal brain function, including learning and
thinking skills. Certain types of TBI’s may increase the risk of developing
Alzheimer’s disease years after the injury takes place.
One of the most impactful studies showed that
those with a history of moderate TBI had a 2.3 times greater risk of developing
Alzheimer’s than older adults with no history of a head injury and those with a
history of severe TBI had a 4.5 times greater risk.
Biochemical Markers of Type 5
There are no biochemical markers for Type 5 as it is triggered by injuries to the brain such as:
Now that we have broken down Alzheimer’s Disease into 6 different types and identified their characteristics and potential causes we can begin to address what you need to do to prevent and begin to heal the damaging insults to the brain. We will begin to work on that next week.
OR if you want to jump ahead, purchase Dr. Dale
Bredesen’s books. Here are the links to purchase them on Amazon.
The End of Alzheimer’s 2
Books Collection Set By Dale Bredesen Paperback – October 26, 2023
LINK: https://amzn.to/462LcY3
The End of Alzheimer's Program: The First Protocol to Enhance Cognition and Reverse Decline at Any Age Paperback – September 6, 2022
LINK: https://amzn.to/3xNcrct
As your parents age, you may find yourself taking on the role of caregiver, especially if they wish to remain in their own home. While caring for aging parents can be rewarding, it also presents unique challenges. This comprehensive guide offers essential advice for caregivers navigating this important responsibility.Creating a Caregiving PlanDeveloping a structured approach is crucial when caring for aging parents. Start by creating an elder care checklist to ensure you're addressing all aspects of their well-being:Assess their living situation and home safetyReview financial and legal mattersEvaluate health and medical needsConsider emotional and social supportPlan for emergenciesA well-organized caregiving plan helps manage tasks efficiently and reduces stress for both you and your loved one.Assessing Living Arrangements and SafetyOne of the first steps in caring for elderly parents is evaluating their living situation:Conduct a thorough home safety assessmentInstall grab bars and improve lightingRemove tripping hazardsConsider a medical alert systemExplore aging in place options or assisted living if necessaryEnsuring a safe environment is crucial for maintaining your loved one's independence and well-being.Managing Financial and Legal MattersAddressing financial and legal concerns is a critical aspect of elder care:Review bank accounts, investments, and assetsInvestigate long-term care insurance and government benefitsEnsure essential legal documents are in place:Valid willPower of attorney for finances and healthcareAdvance directive or living willOrganizing these matters early can prevent complications and provide peace of mind.Coordinating Health and Medical CareEffective management of your loved one's health is paramount:Compile a list of medications and dosagesSchedule and attend medical appointmentsCoordinate care between healthcare providersMonitor for changes in health or behaviorAssess needs for assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs)Regular communication with healthcare professionals ensures your loved one receives appropriate care.Providing Emotional and Social SupportMaintaining your loved one's emotional well-being is as important as physical care:Watch for signs of depression or anxietyEncourage social interactions and activitiesConsider counseling or support groupsResearch local senior centers or community programsArrange transportation for social outingsKeeping your loved one engaged and connected can significantly improve their quality of life.Practicing Self-Care as a CaregiverCaring for yourself is essential when caring for others:Set realistic expectations and boundariesJoin a caregiver support groupMaintain your own health through regular check-upsIdentify backup caregivers for breaksExplore respite care optionsRemember, taking care of yourself allows you to provide better care for your loved one.Effective Communication and Family InvolvementOpen communication is key to successful caregiving:Hold regular family meetings to discuss care plansAssign roles and responsibilities among family membersAddress conflicts or concerns openlyKeep a caregiving journal to track changesShare updates with family members regularlyInvolving family members can distribute responsibilities and provide a support network.Preparing for EmergenciesBeing ready for unexpected situations is crucial:Create an emergency contact listDevelop a plan for natural disasters or medical emergenciesEnsure easy access to important documents and medicationsProper preparation can make a significant difference in crisis situations.Considering Professional HelpSometimes, additional support may be necessary:Evaluate the need for in-home care servicesResearch reputable home care agenciesConsider hiring a geriatric care manager for complex situationsProfessional assistance can complement family caregiving efforts and provide specialized expertise.Caring for aging parents is a journey that requires patience, dedication, and adaptability. By following this advice for caregivers and utilizing resources like an elder care checklist, you can provide comprehensive support for your loved one while maintaining your own well-being. Remember, every family's situation is unique, and it's important to tailor your approach to your specific circumstances. With proper planning and support, you can navigate the challenges of caregiving while cherishing the time spent with your aging loved one.Contact The Caring Mission today for a free assessment and to learn more.
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UTIs and Older Adults: Symptoms and PreventionUrinary tract infections (UTIs) are a prevalent health issue among older adults, often leading to discomfort and potential complications if not addressed promptly. Home care agencies and caregivers play a vital role in managing UTIs, offering tailored support to prevent and treat these infections effectively. Lets explore how they can help.Understanding UTI Symptoms in Older AdultsOlder adults may not exhibit the typical symptoms of UTIs, such as burning during urination or frequent urges to urinate. Instead, they might experience cognitive changes, confusion, agitation, or sudden behavioral shifts. These atypical signs can be challenging to recognize, but trained caregivers are adept at identifying them early, ensuring prompt treatment and reducing the risk of complications like kidney infections or sepsis.Why Are Older Adults More Susceptible to UTIs?Several factors contribute to the increased risk of UTIs in older adults. As people age, both men and women often face challenges in completely emptying their bladders, which can lead to bacterial growth in the urinary tract. In men, conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can obstruct urine flow, while in women, post-menopausal hormonal changes can alter the balance of bacteria, increasing infection risk.Prevention Tips and Care StrategiesEducation and Awareness: Home care professionals educate seniors and their families about the unique symptoms of UTIs in older adults. By increasing awareness, they empower families to recognize potential infections early. Understanding the signs can lead to quicker interventions, preventing more serious health issues.Hydration and Nutrition: Staying hydrated is crucial in preventing UTIs. Caregivers encourage seniors to drink plenty of water, aiming for at least 64 ounces a day, to help flush out bacteria from the urinary tract. They also promote a balanced diet to support overall health and resistance to infections. Proper nutrition, including foods rich in vitamins and minerals, can strengthen the immune system, making it more effective at fighting off infections.Personal Hygiene: Proper hygiene practices are essential in preventing UTIs. Caregivers assist with daily hygiene routines, ensuring that seniors maintain cleanliness and follow practices such as wiping from front to back. This reduces the chance of bacteria entering the urinary tract. Regular bathing and changing of undergarments also play a crucial role in maintaining hygiene and preventing infections.Regular Bathroom Visits: Encouraging regular bathroom visits helps prevent the buildup of bacteria in the bladder. This is particularly important for seniors with cognitive impairments, who may forget to urinate regularly. Caregivers can remind and assist them in maintaining this routine. Establishing a schedule for bathroom visits can help ensure that seniors empty their bladders regularly, reducing the risk of bacterial growth.Catheter Care: For seniors using catheters, home care providers ensure proper catheter maintenance to reduce infection risks. This includes regular cleaning and monitoring for any signs of infection, which is crucial for preventing UTIs in patients with limited mobility. Caregivers are trained to recognize early signs of infection, such as changes in urine color or odor, and can coordinate with healthcare providers for timely intervention.Lifestyle Modifications: Caregivers may suggest lifestyle changes, such as wearing loose, breathable clothing and avoiding irritants like caffeine and alcohol, which can exacerbate UTI symptoms. These modifications can significantly reduce the risk of infections. Encouraging physical activity, as appropriate, can also support overall health and improve bladder function.Use of Supplements: Some studies suggest that cranberry juice or supplements may help prevent UTIs by preventing bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract walls. Caregivers can coordinate with healthcare providers to determine if such supplements are appropriate for the patient. Additionally, probiotics may support urinary tract health by maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria.UTIs pose a significant health challenge for older adults, but with the right care and preventive measures, their impact can be minimized. Home care agencies provide essential support, from education and early detection to personalized care and lifestyle guidance. These services empower seniors to live healthier, more independent lives while managing their health effectively in the comfort of their own homes. By addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes of UTIs, caregivers play a pivotal role in safeguarding the well-being of older adults.