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Vol. 18 • Issue 2 • November 2020
ALZHEIMER’S AWA R E N E S S M O N T H
MIND
M AT T E R S
THE LATEST RESEARCH, BREAKTHROUGHS AND DISCOVERIES
ALSO INSIDE Alzheimer’s: Can Music Help?
Mindful, Grateful Aging
Vaccines and Alzheimer’s Risk
“With True Health Solution Breakthroughs, You Can ELIMINATE Diabetes, Neuropathy, Hypertension, Over-Weight, Pain & MORE!” BEFORE TRUE HEALTH SOLUTIONS
AFTER TRUE HEALTH SOLUTIONS
Robert, age 62, started with Dr. Miller in February, 2020. Within just 5 months he Eliminated High A-1C, Eliminated High Blood Pressure, Lost over 58 lbs, Eliminated Sciatic Nerve Pain and Has More Energy! Q: Robert, why did you go to Dr. Miller? A: “I heard Tom Leach (6.30AM radio) talk of Dr. Miller and the results he gets. I was on about 7 drugs a day, which I hated to take, and my health was getting worse. I really needed to do something to get my health and life back.” Q: You’ve been seeing other medical doctors, what about Dr. Miller was different? A: “Dr. Miller makes everything very clear as to what is causing the poor health issues and what exactly needs to be done to eliminate what is causing poor health. Dr. Miller really takes the time to listen and looked at my whole health history.” Q: What did Dr. Miller do to find out what’s not working correctly in your body? A: “Dr. Miller has an amazing blood panel lab he orders through Lab Corp. Then he does a ‘Computer Assessment’ that uncovered exactly what was causing my High A-1C (Type 2 Diabetes), Hypertension, Over-Weight and Sciatic Nerve Pain. It’s really very impressive.” Q: Robert, what did Dr. Miller recommend for you to Eliminate Your Poor Health Issues?
A: “Dr. Miller laid out a very clear plan, he makes it all very clear and started off by seeing me every week to ensure I would win and walk away from all these diseases. I’m really happy with how he treats me as a patient. And my Sciatic Nerve Pain is GONE!” Q: What are the results of your treatment from Dr. Miller? A: “My results are very satisfying! The change has been remarkable! Not only got my health back, I dropped so far over 58 lbs! I highly recommend Dr. Miller.”
“My High A1c went down to 5.4 off meds! I’ve lost over 58 lbs., my Hypertension, Fatigue and Body Pain are gone and I’ve got my energy and life back! And I’m just getting started!”
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Mind Matters and the Latest Research on Alzheimer’s Disease Can Music Help People Who Have Alzheimer’s Disease? 8 Ways to Support an Alzheimer’s Caregiver Getting to Know A Caring Place Scientific Breakthroughs Offer Promise for Treating Alzheimer’s Disease Flu and Pneumonia Vaccinations Associated with Reduced Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease
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FROM TANYA J. TYLER
EDITOR Dear Friends, A few years ago, I helped a friend who had a day care program for people with Alzheimer’s disease. It began as a way to give caregivers a little bit of time to themselves and take a break from being with their loved one who had Alzheimer’s. That’s an important tip the Alzheimer’s Association offers during National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month and National Family Caregivers Month: Everybody needs some time away now and then. It’s not selfish; it’s self-care. If you don’t take care of yourself, how can you take care of someone else? During the two-hour program, we got sticks and drums and tambourines and sang simple, familiar songs (“This Old Man,” “Old MacDonald”) while keeping the rhythm with the instruments. Music is an important component in Alzheimer’s care. People may forget names and faces, but somehow, wonderfully, musical memories remain strong. If you’re an Alzheimer’s caregiver, be sure to take some time for yourself to stay healthy and focused. And crank up the music! Here’s to your health, Tanya
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MIND MATTERS AND THE LATEST RESEARCH ON ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE HEALTH SUMMIT ADDRESSES BREAKTHROUGHS AND DISCOVERIES By Dr. Tom Miller, Staff Writer
The University of Kentucky recently hosted the UK Sanders-Brown Center on Aging’s 2020 Mind Matters Health Summit. The summit, which was a videoconference rather than a live event due to COVID-19, was designed to share with the university community and the general public the latest discoveries and new directions the Center is taking in the study of aging.
For advertising information call 859.368.0778 or email brian@rockpointpublishing.com | November 2020 One of the Center’s foremost studies involved research with the brains of deceased nuns, more commonly known as the Nun Study. This is a population-based cohort of women who have been followed longitudinally for decades, from relatively young age to autopsy. This project began to generate valuable data in the study of Alzheimer’s disease that resulted in identifying pathology levels in an aging population. Dr. Pete Nelson with the UK Department of Pathology and Dr. Greg Jicha with the Department of Neurology summarized the ongoing Alzheimer’s disease research at the UK Sanders-Brown Center on Aging. Among the latest research findings is the presence of what has been called LATE pathology in the aging brain. LATE stands for Limbic-predominant Age-related TDP43 Encephalopathy. LATE pathology increases dramatically in advanced aging. Alzheimer’s disease tends to level off and even decrease in advanced old age. LATE affects about one in three persons over age 80 years. It has a large public health impact that is deemed to be on the same order of magnitude as Alzheimer’s disease.
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Recognizing LATE as a common brain disease will augment dementia research efforts.
MIND Continued on Page 6
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November 2020
Are you between the age of 45-75?
GOOD
COLON CANCER SCREENING SAVES LIVES
Alzheimer’s disease tends to level off and even decrease in advanced old age.
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CAN MUSIC HELP PEOPLE WHO HAVE ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE? By Peggy Lord Turn on the radio, throw on some headphones, crank up the tunes and what happens? Your body reacts to it – toes and fingers start to tap, your head and shoulders begin to bob. You might find yourself singing along. Before you know it, music has taken over and your body is now along for the ride. Regardless of age or physical wellbeing, our bodies respond to music. Researchers have discovered music can have potent emotional, physical and social benefits for those living with Alzheimer’s disease. Music is an effective, easy-to-use tool that has proven results. Research shows while dementia causes progressive memory loss and impairment, memory for music remains. Music helps people in all MUSIC stages of dementia connect with fond memories. For IS AN many, music can also shift EFFECTIVE, mood, manage agitation and help with motor EASY-TOmovements. In one study, researchers USE TOOL discovered music therapy THAT HAS lowers stress levels and significantly decreases PROVEN depression and anxiety. RESULTS. They concluded music therapy can be an effective alternative medicine to improve emotional variables in Alzheimer’s patients. Dan Cohen, director of Music and Memory, says music is the “most fast-acting” non-drug approach to improving the lives of all persons with dementia, Parkinson’s disease, depression and other behavioral challenges, even for those in pain. Music has been found to stimulate parts of the brain. Studies have demonstrated music enhances the memory of Alzheimer’s patients. One study conducted at the University of California Irvine discovered the memories of Alzheimer’s patients improved when they listened to classical music. In studying the work of The Sing for the Moment Choir movement, researchers discovered singing, especially with others, provides persons
with Alzheimer’s and related dementia an opportunity to socialize, connect and inspire others to sing also. Music can have a positive effect on one’s emotional state. Melissa Davis, a music specialist at the Arc of Monroe’s Ballantyne Day Service, say she has seen the positive effects music has on their Alzheimer patients. “I’ve seen a woman, quiet, lost in the deep dark recesses of her mind, spring to life upon hearing her favorite song and sing full voice, in perfect tune with as much if not more enthusiasm than Diana Ross herself,” she said. “I know a woman who moves and dances with reckless abandon any time the song ‘The Power’ is played. I’ve seen a man who cries for better times when he hears a song that reminds him of his past and he whispers, ‘That’s an oldtimer’s song’ in my ear. I’ve seen a woman, who normally lacks any sense of self-esteem, get up in front of a large group of her peers and belt out ‘Take Me Home, Country Roads’ like nobody’s business.” Dr. Jonathan Graff-Radford with the Mayo Clinic says, “Musical memories are often preserved in Alzheimer’s disease because key brain areas linked to musical memory are relatively undamaged by the disease.” Not only does music relieve stress, reduce anxiety and depression, it can also reduce agitation. “Music can also benefit caregivers by reducing anxiety and distress, lightening the mood and providing a way to connect with loved ones who have Alzheimer’s disease — especially those who have difficulty communicating,” Graff-Radford said. Graff-Radford suggests trying the following ideas: • Think about the type of music your loved one likes. Make play lists of music that relates to happy memories in his or her life. • Consider your loved one’s mood. Use soothing music to calm them during routine daily activities, such as mealtime or a morning hygiene. Use upbeat or faster music to boost their mood – and yours, too. • Eliminate competing noises. It is important to avoid over-stimulating your loved one.
Graff-Radford recommends turning off the TV, minimizing distractions and setting the volume to a comfortable level. Using music that is interrupted by commercials can cause confusion. • Movement is important. Encourage your loved one to clap along or tap their feet to the beat. If they are able, consider dancing with them. • Sing with them. This can help them connect with you more. Some early studies also suggest musical memory functions differently than other types of memory, and singing can help stimulate unique memories. • Pay attention to how your loved one responds. Frequently play songs or music they enjoy. Don’t play music that generates a negative reaction. Music will not change your loved one’s cognitive abilities, but it might help them to have moments of joy and can improve your quality of life with them. About the Author
Peggy Lord is a retired educator, both in the public schools and as a professor of education.
References • Davis, Melissa. (2019, February, 11). Dementia and the benefits of music enrichment. https://arcmonroe.org/ dementiamusic/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMItYrt2Lmg7AIVj8D ACh0FMgjgEAAYBCAAEgL7dvD_BwE • Elmcroft Staff. (2018, June 18). Benefits of Music for Dementia Patients. www.elmcroft.com/blog/2018/june/ benefits-of-music-for-dementia-patients/ • Graff-Radford, J. (2020). Can music help someone with Alzheimer’s? www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ alzheimers-disease/expert-answers/music-and-alzheimers/faq-20058173 • Lucas, Cheri. (2012,Mat 7). Boost memory and learning with music. PBS Kids for Parents. www.pbs.org/parents/ thrive/boost-memory-and-learning-with-music • Ortiz, J., Garcia-Pardo, M., Iranzo, C. etc. (2018 Jan;24). Does Music Therapy Improve Anxiety and Depression in Alzheimer’s Patients? Journal of Alternative Complementary Medicine. 2018 Jan;24(1):33-36. https:// pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28714736/ • Young, A., Cornacchio, R. and Hamon, R. (2019) Sing for the Moment: A Choral Ensemble for Persons with Dementia and Their Care Partners. Journal of Intergenerational Relationships, 17:1, 110-117 DOI 10.1080/15350770.2019.1551.
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For advertising information call 859.368.0778 or email brian@rockpointpublishing.com | November 2020
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SENIORS C AN TAKE STEPS TO
DETER DEPRESSION
Helping our beloved seniors stay happy and healthy benefits us all.
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t is easy to succumb to the dark clutches of depression at any stage of life. Life is full of surprises and twists, and not all of them have a positive effect on the psyche. However, once a senior is in the grasp of depression, it is often difficult for them to find release. More than 6.5 million Americans aged 65 years and up are affected by depression. What is Depression? Depression is most often characterized by being sad. But depression can be so much more than that. In fact, for many seniors with depression, sadness is not their main symptom. More prominent symptoms may include trouble sleeping, feeling irritable or tired, being confused or having attention problems. Because of this, depression can sometimes look like Alzheimer’s disease or other health conditions. Some medications can also exacerbate the effects and length of depression. Depression in seniors is more likely to lead to other health problems, including a heart attack. Likewise, depression can keep a senior from rehabilitating at an optimal pace. Depression can also increase the risk of suicide. The suicide rate for seniors aged 80 to 84 years is nearly twice that of the overall population. Fortunately, some preventative measures can be taken to deter or prevent such gloomy depths in our later years. How Seniors Can Take Steps to Deter Depression • Find a Purpose in Life. Depression has been shown to lead to cognitive decline and may increase the risk for dementia. Establishing a purpose in life has a mitigating effect on depression and cognitive decline. A recent study used many factors – such as age, race, number of living siblings and whether the participants had a significant other – to compare the rates at which the participants suffered from mental deterioration. The results were encouraging. Finding a purpose in life is shown to prevent, or at least slow, the progression of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of cognitive degeneration. Since depression is often formed due to an adverse medical
diagnosis, like Alzheimer’s disease, having a purpose in life may also curtail the resulting depressive symptoms as well. • Engage in Interpersonal-individual Activities. It is no surprise that staying active, enjoying hobbies and growing friendships have a beneficial effect on mental health. Interestingly, some activities have much more benefit than others. A study on senior health shows elders who spend time with specific family members or friends enjoy a greater level of protection from late-life depression. Those taking part in solitary or general social group activities did not realize as significant results. • Stay Physically Active. While not all seniors can engage in high-intensity interval training, many seniors can start somewhere. Encourage a senior to offer dog walking services to a friend who may be ill or park at the far end of the parking lot at the grocery store. A senior with more physical abilities might take part in the National Seniors Games. Competitions include bowling, horseshoes, power walking, shuffleboard, softball, and more. • Resolve Regrets. How can a senior work towards resolving regret? Maybe the senior can obtain closure by writing a letter to someone involved in the remorseful situation. The senior may find peace by explaining that they are sorry and wished things would have worked out differently. If a senior has lost contact with a family member, it might be possible to rekindle that relationship in a healthy way. Everyone wants to be happy. No reasonable person desires to succumb to sadness and depression, especially at a time when one should be celebrating their life and enjoying the years they have left. While seeking professional medical advice would be a recommended first step should a senior start experiencing signs of depression, there are some things a senior can do to deter depression. This includes finding a purpose in life, connecting with specific friends or family members who bring them joy, staying physically active, and resolving their regrets. The Mediterranean diet might even do the trick! Mental and physical health are intertwined, and helping our beloved seniors stay happy and healthy benefits us all.
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November 2020 | Read this issue and more at www.healthandwellnessmagazine.com |
WAYS TO SUPPORT AN
ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVER
HandWmagazine
I wish I had
NOVEMBER IS BOTH NATIONAL ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH AND NATIONAL FAMILY CAREGIVERS MONTH. To mark these events, the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Kentucky and Southern Indiana chapter encourages people to lend a helping hand to more than 274,000 Kentucky family members and friends serving as Alzheimer’s caregivers. Providing help and support to caregivers can be easier than most people think. Even little acts can make a big difference. The Alzheimer’s Association offers these suggestions: (continued on next page)
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November 2020 | Read this issue and more at www.healthandwellnessmagazine.com |
HandWmagazine
(continued from previous page)
1LEARN 2BUILD A TEAM
4CHECK IN
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6BE SPECIFIC & FLEXIBLE
Educate yourself about Alzheimer’s disease – its symptoms, its progression and the common challenges facing caregivers. The more you know, the easier it will be to find ways to help.
Organize family and friends who want to help with caregiving. The Alzheimer’s Association offers links to several free, online care calendar resources that families can use to build their care team, share tasks and coordinate helpers.
GIVE CAREGIVERS A BREAK
Make a standing appointment to give the caregiver a break. Spend time with the person with dementia and allow the caregiver a chance to run errands, go to their own doctor’s appointment, participate in a support group or engage in an activity that helps them recharge. Even one hour could make a big difference in providing the caregiver some relief.
Many Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers report feeling isolated or alone. So start the conversation – making a phone call to check in, sending a note or stopping by for a visit can make a big difference in a caregiver’s day and help them feel supported.
5TACKLE THE TO-DO LIST
Ask for a list of errands that need to be run, such as picking up groceries or prescriptions. Offer to do yard work or other household chores. It can be hard for a caregiver to find time to complete these simple tasks that we often take for granted.
Open-ended offers of support (“Call me if you need anything” or “Let me know if I can help”) may be well-intended but are often dismissed. Be specific in your offer (“I’m going to the store; what do you need?”). Continue to let the caregiver know you are there and ready to help.
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7HELP FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Holiday celebrations are often joyous occasions, but they can be challenging and stressful for families living with Alzheimer’s. Help caregivers around the holidays by offering to help with cooking, cleaning or gift shopping. If a caregiver has traditionally hosted family celebrations, offer your home instead.
8JOIN THE FIGHT
Honor a person living with the disease and their caregiver by joining the fight against Alzheimer’s. You can volunteer at your local Alzheimer’s Association office, participate in fundraising events such as the Walk to End Alzheimer’s and The Longest Day, advocate for more research funding or sign up to participate in a clinical study as a healthy volunteer through the Alzheimer’s Association’s Trial Match.
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To learn more about Alzheimer’s disease and ways you can support families and people living with the disease, visit www.alz.org or contact the Alzheimer’s Association 24-hour Helpline at 1-800-272-3900.
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ENVISIONING A WORLD WITHOUT ALZHEIMER’S A focus on patients and finding a cure is the motivation behind the clinical trials program at the UK Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, which seeks to understand the aging process and age-related brain diseases. Dr. Greg Jicha runs the clinical trials enterprise at Sanders-Brown. He believes it is not just about this generation but “the ability to create the legacy for our children and our children’s children, that they inherit a world without Alzheimer’s disease.”
UK SANDERS-BROWN CENTER ON AGING To learn more or to see if you or a loved one are eligible for a clinical trial, visit sbcoa.med.uky.edu.
M21-0232
THE BEST in KENTUCKY. THE BEST for KENTUCKY.
At UK HealthCare, we’re dedicated to one mission: helping Kentucky get healthier. It’s what drives our research, our outreach, and our expert care, and it’s why we’ve been ranked Kentucky’s #1 hospital for the fifth year in a row by U.S. News Best Hospitals. See why Kentuckians come to us when it matters most at ukhealthcare.com/best
The Power of Advanced Medicine
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November 2020 | Read this issue and more at www.healthandwellnessmagazine.com |
A SIMPLE PHONE CALL CAN
CHANGE A LIFE: GETTING TO KNOW
A CARING PLACE
By Brian Lord, Publisher
The year 2020 has not been what we expected. And for seniors, it has been even more difficult, when you consider the issues of aging, aging alone and aging with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Scary days lie ahead of us. This is why groups like A Caring Place are so important to the Central Kentucky community.
HandWmagazine
November 2020
"Caring for people as they age is so much more than just tending to their physical needs..."
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oxanne Cheney, chair of A Caring Place, said, “Caring for people as they age is so much more than just tending to their physical needs, but [also] their emotional, psychological and spiritual needs to connect with other people.” This is why the Bible says God created Eve for Adam; it was not good for man to be alone. This is why A Caring Place exists. This group of men and women who call and connect with seniors is a vital caregiving ministry. Feeling sad, lonely and useless is more than just an emotional quagmire for millions of aging Americans. Many researchers contend social isolation and loneliness may represent a greater public health hazard than most people are aware of. We are seeing major issues with children not being able to connect with their peer groups because of the lack of in-person school. It is just as important for older adults. One AARP loneliness study published in 2010 and now being updated reported approximately 42.6 million U.S. adults ages 45 years and older were suffering from loneliness. And now with the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, groups
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like A Caring Place are needed more and more. As older Americans find themselves stuck at home, not able to connect with their social communities, their churches and family, the issue of loneliness is a group problem that leads to depression and other mental and emotional problems. A Caring Place’s purpose is to meet that strong human need to belong. Through phone calls and online video meetings, they provide person-to-person connections for those who are facing loneliness and the struggles and fears of aging. They help connect people with the resources and help they need as they age. But mostly, they focus on just being a good friend to seniors. A Caring Place started as a non profit, beginning with a small group in a local church. It has expanded to include a diversity of faith-based people on its board. There are also many associate members who have dedicated significant personal time and resources to helping others in need. Additionally, A Caring Place has partnered with the Youth Movement Against Alzheimer’s, whose local chapter at the University of Kentucky helps with their phone call and connection teams. Together the Youth Movement Against Alzheimer’s and A Caring Place have created a Virtual Welcome Center. Through the magic of zoom they meet for small group interaction every Wednesday and Saturday at 10:00 a.m. for one hour. This hour is not only stimulating and fun, but also creates a wonderful time to bond together and form friendships. The benefits of building interactions between young adults and the senior community are many. First, it is an easy way for many seniors to integrate technology into their lives in a comfortable, caring environment. (A smart phone, tablet or personal computer is required to participate.) Second, there is no transportation to worry about; you simply come as you are to enjoy conversation with others and build new relationships. Third, there is an opportunity to mingle with other people of all ages and to learn from the unique attributes each age group can provide, gaining wisdom and crafting healthy relationships. Finally, when these different age groups interact, it is a chance to share experiences, broaden knowledge or learn new information from each other. A Caring Place has reached out to the majority of churches in the community to offer them the opportunity to play an active role in being good shepherds to the people in the Bluegrass area who scream out silently for someone to help, pay attention to, acknowledge and love them. During the coronavirus pandemic, the home visits part of the program has been put on pause. However, with the simple power of a telephone, their Comfort Care Volunteers are working overtime to reach out to those who are socially isolated, which now seems to include all of us. A Caring Place is always looking for people who want to volunteer and help. We urge you to consider volunteering with this important caregiving group. Also, we encourage you to refer someone (perhaps a loved one or a neighbor) who would benefit from a cheery phone call or video chat now and then, and bring a little sunshine into your life as well.
If you are interested in joining this exciting new group, please register by calling (859) 368-2656 or send an email to info@a-caring-place.com, and they will provide you with a link to their Zoom video conference.
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November 2020 | Read this issue and more at www.healthandwellnessmagazine.com |
HandWmagazine
SCIENTIFIC BREAKTHROUGHS OFFER PROMISE FOR TREATING ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE By Dr. Tom Miller, Staff Writer
The Alzheimer’s Association’s International Conference 2020 served as an excellent venue for advancing the understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia science. Current research developments, along with new and emerging technologies, were presented by and shared among global researchers. The conference, which met virtually for 2020, included plenary talks, scientific sessions and technical tours. At this year’s conference, an international team of scientists reported the results of multiple studies on advances in blood tests for abnormal versions of the tau protein. One of these tests may be able to detect changes in the brain 20 years before dementia symptoms occur. In particular, the reports focused on a specific form of tau known as p-tau217, which seems to be most specific to Alzheimer’s and the earliest to show measurable changes. The team of research scientists, led by Dr. Oskar Hansson, have identified a highly accurate, blood-based biomarker for the detection of Alzheimer’s disease. They measured levels of p-tau217 in the blood and validated the finding in multiple, diverse populations. The scientists found the diagnostic preci-
sion of blood p-tau217 was as high as established diagnostic methods, including positron emission tomography (PET) imaging and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers, which are invasive, costly and less available. Changes in the brain proteins amyloid and tau and their formation into clumps known as plaques and tangles, respectively, are defining physical features of Alzheimer’s disease. The buildup of tau tangles is thought to correlate closely with cognitive decline. In these newly reported results, blood/plasma levels of p-tau 217, one of the forms of tau found in tangles, correlated closely with the buildup of amyloid; this test identifies them. The Sanders-Brown Center on Aging at the University of Kentucky recognizes the benefits of these findings in
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For advertising information call 859.368.0778 or email brian@rockpointpublishing.com | November 2020
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THE BUILDUP OF TAU TANGLES IS THOUGHT TO CORRELATE CLOSELY WITH COGNITIVE DECLINE.
diagnostic science for Alzheimer’s disease. Research scientists at Sanders-Brown have contributed to diagnostic research and treatment interventions through its long-running study on aging and brain health. Currently, the brain changes that occur before Alzheimer’s dementia symptoms appear can only be reliably assessed by PET scans and from measuring amyloid and tau proteins in spinal fluid (CSF). These methods are expensive and invasive. Too often they are unavailable because they are not covered by insurance or are difficult to access, or both. This blood test will enable interpretation of Alzheimer’s progression in much larger, more diverse and more robust populations. This research finding meets an urgent need for simple, inexpensive, non-invasive and easily available diagnostic tools for Alzheimer’s. These new testing technologies could also support drug development for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and brain health in many ways.
Sources and Resources
• Hansson, Oskar et al. Phospho-tau217, phospho-tau181 biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease. Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation, Swedish Alzheimer Foundation • Janelidze, Shorena et al. Plasma phospho-tau217 diagnostic and prognostic biomarker of Alzheimer’s. Swedish Research Council, Swedish Alzheimer Foundation • Schindler, Suzanne et al. Mass spectrometry measures and clinical stage of Alzheimer’s disease. U.S. National Institute on Aging • Thijssen, Elisabeth et al. Comparative diagnostic performance in Alzheimer’s disease. U.S. National Institute on Aging, Tau Research Consortium
About the Author: Thomas W. Miller, M.S., Ph.D., ABPP, is a Professor Emeritus and Senior Research Scientist at the Center for Health, Intervention and Prevention at the University of Connecticut and a Professor in the Department of Gerontology at the University of Kentucky College of Public Health and in the Department of Psychiatry at the UK College of Medicine.
is it a good idea to use a local referral Q Why agency to help find a senior living community?
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It’s a FREE service I have firsthand knowledge of all senior living communities in Lexington and surrounding areas I can save you a lot of time and frustration
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Local Senior Living Placement Service *No Medicaid or Subsidized Housing
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events november NOVEMBER 2020
ongoing featured Mondays Daily Mindfulness Meditation with Centered Community Space Centered Studio at 309 N. Ashland Ave. Suite 180 in Lexington has a community space where we welcome community groups to gather at no cost. Get in touch with Centered to arrange this for your group. 859-721-1841
Mondays Post-partum Support Group with Sarah Wylie Van Meter
Every Monday at 11:00am Attending this group will give birth parents a time and safe place to feel supported and be in community during their postpartum time journeys. Those who join will be in attendance to each other and to themselves as we exchange ways to care for our own bodies, our emotions, our babies, and our partnerships. Babies of all ages and stages are welcome. Come with or without your baby/babies and don’t fret if you arrive late. Donations-based class. Centered Studio, 309 N. Ashland Ave. Suite 180 in Lexington.
Brent Oliver
Every Monday 8:00pm-9:00pm at Centered Studio, 309 N. Ashland Ave. Suite 180 in Lexington. Mindfulness Meditation is a welcoming meditation community open to everyone. We define mindfulness as concentration power, sensory clarity, and equanimity all working together. Donations-based class.
Tuesday/Friday Gentle Community Yoga w/ Lauren Higdon & Terry Fister
Every Tuesday and Friday at 10:30am-11:30am at Centered Studio, 309 N. Ashland Ave. Suite 180 in Lexington. This weekly restorative class integrates gentle yoga, breathing techniques, meditation and wellness tips for all ages and levels of physical condition. Classes may include chair yoga, restorative, yin yoga, tai chi, and more. Perfect for beginners as well as experienced yogis! Donations-based class.
lace up!
Check out our online race calendar, featuring hundreds of local running events every month:
www.healthandwellnessmagazine.com
Saturdays
Lexington Farmer’s Market Every Saturday (April – October, 7am-2pm) downtown Lexington, 241 West Main Street, visit the Lexington Farmers’ Market! Browse herbs and spices, honey, beeswax, candles, body care products, organic products, eggs, meats and fresh, seasonal produce. COVID-19 UPDATE: MARKET IS OPEN; PLEASE PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING. For details, please visit www.lexingtonfarmersmarket.com.
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HOSTING A HEALTHY EVENT IN CENTRAL KY? Share with our readers by e-mailing details to: brian@rockpointpublishing.com
upcoming November 6 Senior Caregiving Conference - Webinar & Resource Fair
The 2020 UK Senior Caregiving Conference will be held virtually. This 5th annual event is open to UK employees, retirees, spouses and partners, as well as community caregivers. 1–3:00 p.m.: Live Webinar with Teepa Snow. 3–4 p.m.: Virtual Resource Fair with local exhibitors. Technical details: In order to attend, you'll need the latest version of Zoom. Registration will open Thursday, October 1, 2020 - 7:53am to Friday, November 6, 2020 - 3:00pm. For details, please visit www.uky.edu/hr/ caregiving2020.
November 7 Virtual DanceBlue FT5K DanceBlue is a registered student organization at the University of Kentucky that works tirelessly all year, every year, to raise money FTK (For The Kids)! The money raised through DanceBlue fundraising efforts is donated to the Golden Matrix Fund, established to support the kids of the
DanceBlue Kentucky Children’s Hospital Hematology/Oncology Clinic both today and well into the future through an endowment. This year, DanceBlue FT5K will be a VIRTUAL run/walk. Visit healthandwellnessmagazine. com and select "race running calendar" for information and to register.
November 8
Virtual Veterans VA5K Race The 5th Annual "Virtual" Veterans VA5K Race will be held Saturday, Nov. 7 through Sunday, Nov. 8. The event will benefit the Lexington Veterans Affairs Medical Center and the soon-to-be-constructed Lexington Fisher House, which will provide lodging for the families of veterans being treated at the medical center. The Lexington Division of Community Corrections and Columbia Gas of Kentucky and its NiVets Employee Resource Group are presenting and coordinating sponsors of the event. Visit healthandwellnessmagazine. com and select "race running calendar" for information and to register.
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Family Doc.
November 2020
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PRIMARY C ARE IMPOR TANT
DURING THE PANDEMIC
rimary care physicians and providers are the gateway to the health system. They are vital to keeping patients healthier longer. Your primary care provider (PCP) has always been the first step in maintaining good health and practicing preventive care. Your PCP is even more important during our current pandemic. Primary care has been on the frontlines of the pandemic since the beginning, caring for patients, testing for COVID-19 and providing guidance and treatment. At Family Practice Associates, our providers and staff have been adhering to the recommendations provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to protect our staff and our patients while continuing to test for COVID and provide treatments for all illnesses. One of the unintended consequences of the pandemic has been a delay in care for people with chronic or serious conditions. It is understandable patients have delayed elective procedures, follow-up appointments, lab work or annual physicals. However, delays can lead to more serious issues in the future, particularly for those with unmanaged or untreated chronic conditions. FPA encourages all patients to keep their regular annual physicals and three-month/six-month follow-up appointments with their providers to ensure your medical conditions are being monitored and treated appropriately. Lab tests, preventive visits and screenings, such as physicals and Medicare Wellness visits, are excellent ways to identify health issues before they become more serious. Your PCP is trained to help both your physical and mental health. This is more important now than ever, because mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, have been on the rise significantly during this time of uncertainty, and your PCP
Find your PCP partner for life.
can help you cope with and manage your stress. In addition, certain health conditions may require a visit to a specialist. Your PCP can give you referrals and also help coordinate information exchanges between your other health care providers. Telehealth options are still available for many appointments, but sometimes it may be necessary for your provider to see you in person. We offer options such as waiting in your car and other precautions that minimize your exposure as much as possible. At FPA, we feel it is an honor and a privilege to be trusted with your healthcare and the care of your family. Our providers recommend all patients find a PCP in our practice that meets your needs and fits with your expectations, and then build a partnership with him or her with open communication. Our practice is unique in that we have a variety of physicians, nurse practitioners and physician assistants with varying years of experience and areas of expertise. Some of our providers have been in practice for awhile and they may have closed panels, but we have other excellent options and choices for you to find your PCP partner for life. Particularly during this difficult time, don’t delay care even if it seems routine. It is very important to keep your regular appointments and allow us, your partners at FPA, to help you stay healthier longer.
ABOUT FAMILY PRACTICE ASSOCIATES OF LEXINGTON TWO LOCATIONS: 1775 Alysheba Way, Ste. 201 and 615 East Brannon Road, Ste. 100 • 859.278.5007 • www.fpalex.com Proudly serving Kentucky for over 35 years, Family Practice Associates of Lexington is a group of primary care providers who are dedicated to giving family-centered care from birth to later years.
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pet health
FALL PLANTS
K
CAN BE TOXIC TO PETS
nowing which popular fall plants can be toxic to dogs, cats and horses will help you choose safe autumn flora for your home and yard. The ASPCA’s list of toxic and nontoxic plants is a great resource to keep your pets safe year-round, but especially during the holidays. Mums, red maple, ginkgo trees and rayless goldenrod are some of the most common fall plants we see in the Bluegrass State. Unfortunately, they can be very dangerous for our favorite pets.
Mums are mildly toxic to dogs, cats and horses. Red maple trees are often the most vibrant and beautiful in the fall, but their leaves are considered toxic to horses. Gingko trees produce gorgeous yellow fall foliage, which many people enjoy, so thankfully the male trees are considered nontoxic to pets. However, the seed from the female tree contains ginkgotoxin (a methylpyridoxine) and is toxic to pets. Choosing a male gingko tree for your yard will prevent both hazards. Rayless goldenrods are considered nontoxic to dogs and cats,
but they are considered toxic to horses. Furthermore, we sometimes decorate with plants or objects that could cause obstructions if swallowed (dried corn, for example). As we add décor to our homes and yards, we need to keep in mind our ability to supervise pets around new things. By taking extra precautions and doing research on holiday decorations and plants, we can keep our pets safe and enjoy the holidays with them for years to come.
Fall Toxins
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Upcoming events benefiting your Lexington Humane Society:
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November 4 – December 26
Fall Auction
November 9 – 16
Holiday Toy Drive December 15 – 22 For complete event details, please visit
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FLU AND PNEUMONIA VACCINATIONS
ASSOCIATED WITH REDUCED RISK OF ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE International Conference Reports Findings of Research Studies Three research studies reported at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference® 2020 suggest: • At least one flu vaccination was associated with a 17-percent reduction in Alzheimer’s incidence. More frequent flu vaccination was associated with another 13-percent reduction in Alzheimer’s incidence. • Vaccination against pneumonia between ages 65 and 75 years reduced Alzheimer’s risk by up to 40 percent, depending on individual genes. • Individuals with dementia have a sixfold-higher risk of dying after infections than those without dementia (threefold HIGHER). “With the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccines are at the forefront of public health discussions. It is important to explore their benefit in not only protecting against viral or bacterial infection but also improving long-term health outcomes,” said Maria C. Carrillo, Ph.D., Alzheimer’s Association chief science officer. “It may turn out to be as simple as if you’re taking care of your health in this way – getting vaccinated – you’re also taking care of yourself in other ways, and these things add up to lower risk of Alzheimer’s and other dementias,” Carrillo said. “This research, while early, calls for further studies in large, diverse clinical trials to inform whether vaccinations as a public health strategy decrease our risk for developing dementia as we age.” Seasonal Flu Vaccine May Reduce Incidence of Alzheimer’s Dementia Previous research has suggested vaccinations may have a protective factor against cognitive decline, but there have been no large, comprehensive studies
focused on the influenza (flu) vaccine and Alzheimer’s disease risk specifically. To address this gap, Albert Amran, a medical student at McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, and his team investigated a large American health record dataset (n=9,066). Amran and his team found having one flu vaccination was associated with a lower prevalence of Alzheimer’s (odds ratio 0.83, p<0.0001), and among vaccinated patients, receiving the flu vaccine more frequently was associated with an even lower prevalence of Alzheimer’s (odds ratio 0.87, p=0.0342). Thus, people that consistently got their annual flu shot had a lower risk of Alzheimer’s. This translated to an almost 6-percent reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease for patients between the ages of 75-84 years for 16 years. The researchers found the protective association between the flu vaccine and the risk of Alzheimer’s was strongest for those who received their first vaccine at a younger age – for example, the people who received their first documented flu shot at age 60 benefitted more than those who received their first flu shot at age 70. “Our study suggests that regular use of a very accessible and relatively cheap intervention – the flu shot – may significantly reduce risk of Alzheimer’s dementia,” Amran said. “More research is needed to explore the biological mechanism for this effect – why and how it works in the body – which is important as we explore effective preventive therapies for Alzheimer’s.” Pneumonia Vaccine May Reduce Alzheimer’s Risk Later in Life Repurposing existing vaccines may be a promising approach to Alzheimer’s disease prevention. Svetlana Ukraintseva,
Ph.D., associate research professor in the Biodemography of Aging Research Unit (BARU) at Duke University Social Science Research Institute, and her team investigated associations between pneumococcal vaccination, with and without an accompanying seasonal flu shot, and the risk of Alzheimer’s disease among 5,146 participants age 65 years and older from the Cardiovascular Health Study. The team also took into account a known genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s – the rs2075650 G allele in the TOMM40 gene. The researchers found getting a pneumococcal vaccination between ages 65-75 years reduced the risk of developing Alzheimer’s by 25 percent to 30 percent after adjusting for sex, race, birth cohort, education, smoking and number of G alleles. The largest reduction in the risk of Alzheimer’s (up to 40 percent) was observed among people vaccinated against pneumonia who were non-carriers of the risk gene. Total number of vaccinations against pneumonia and the flu between ages 65 and 75 years was also associated with a lower risk of Alzheimer’s; however, the effect was not evident for the flu shot alone. “Vaccinations against pneumonia before age 75 may reduce Alzheimer’s risk later in life, depending on individual genotype,” Ukraintseva said. “These data suggest that pneumococcal vaccine may be a promising candidate for personalized Alzheimer’s prevention, particularly in non-carriers of certain risk genes.” The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection and maximizing top-quality care and support. Visit www.alz.org or call 1-800-272-3900.
November 2020
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Vaccinations against pneumonia before age 75 may reduce Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s risk later in life.
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N AT U R E ' S
Epazote HEARTY HERB HANDLES INTESTINAL INVADERS By Tanya Tyler, Editor Health&Wellness First things first: The name of this herb is pronounced ehpah-ZOH-tay. It is commonly used in the cuisine and traditional medicines of Central and South America. According to The Spruce Eats, the epazote plant is a leafy annual or short-lived perennial that can grow as tall as 4 feet. Epazote often grows in empty lots and by roadsides throughout a large part of North and South America and even into Europe and Asia. It is suitable for gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian and paleo diets. Its name, which comes from the language spoken by Mexican Aztecs, means “stinky sweat.” In English, epazote is called goosefoot, skunk weed or wormseed. Organic Facts says epazote is packed with nutrients and organic compounds the body needs. It contains a wide range of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A and C, as well as calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, potassium, phosphorous, and zinc, which contribute to bone mineral density and may help stave off osteoporosis. Epazote has significant levels of six different B vitamins, particularly folic acid, which is important for proper development and growth. The antioxidant properties of epazote can also neutralize free radicals that cause various types of chronic diseases. Like most other leafy green vegetables, epazote has lots of fiber, which helps improve digestion and the efficiency of the gastrointestinal system. Thus it may reduce constipation, cramping and bloating. Medicinally, epazote has been effective as a vermifuge (it can expel intestinal worms, hence the name wormseed). In the form of a medicinal tea made from its leaves and flowers, the plant
B E A U T Y
has long been used to treat intestinal parasites in humans. The compounds found in epazote are said to reduce the gas and bloating many people experience from eating beans and cruciferous vegetables. This is why epazote is often added to soups and other dishes containing beans. Epazote has been purported to reduce respiratory conditions, improve metabolism, protect the immune system, help weight loss efforts, heal wounds and reduce menstrual discomfort, according to one source. Its decoction has been found to have some anti-diabetic properties. But you must be very cautious when you try it (and never use an unknown herb without consulting an expert or your primary care physician): Epazote can be toxic if you ingest too much of it. Pregnant and nursing women and children should avoid large amounts of epazote. Essential oils made with epazote can also be harmful if ingested and are no longer recommended. In cooking, epazote imparts a rustic layer of
flavor to many dishes – tamales, chilis, quesadillas and others. The herb is used in traditional Mexican molé sauce. Add it to a dish that is getting close to being done, preferably during the last 10 minutes of cooking. While it’s best to use fresh epazote, the dried form can be used if no fresh herbs are available. Epazote is very easy to grow in your own back yard. Just give it full sunlight, well-draining sandy soil and water and let it take you on a culinary adventure. Sources
• Honest Food (www.honest-food.net) • Mexico in My Kitchen (www. mexicoinmykitchen.com) • Nutrition and You (www.nutrition-and-you.com) • Organic Facts (www.organicfacts.net) • The Spruce Eats (www.thespruceeats.com) • Tropical Plant Database (www.raintree.com) • University of Texas El Paso (www.utep.edu)
Medicinally, epazote has been effective as a vermifuge.
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Integrative Medicine.
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MINDFUL, GRATEFUL AGING AGING IS BOTH A CHALLENGE AND AN OPPOR TUNIT Y.
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ging is a mixed blessing. We want to live a long life, but aging often comes with disability, pain, loss of function and loss of loved ones. Aging well involves healthy lifestyle habits, including healthy eating, physical activity, restful sleep, social support and stress management. Mindfulness is an extremely practical skill that can help you manage stress and achieve your best overall health – physically, mentally and emotionally. What is mindfulness? An oftencited definition of mindfulness is from Jon Kabat-Zinn, founder of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), the gold standard mindfulness course worldwide for over 40 years. He defines mindfulness as “paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, without judgment.” Mindfulness involves the intentional directing of your attention with curiosity, openness, acceptance and gratitude. These open-minded attitudes are antidotes to our habitual, automatic, knee-jerk reactivity. It sounds simple, but it’s not so easy. The more we pay attention to our physical, mental and emotional habits, the more we recognize our ruts and lifelong habits. But anyone can practice mindfulness – and it can change everything. Begin with mindfulness of the senses. Open your senses wide, welcoming sounds rather than objecting to them, touching into your gratitude for the sense of hearing. Notice your sense of sight, seeing in
a new way the shapes, colors, light, shadows and objects that you see, touching into your gratitude for sight. Notice your sense of touch, feeling the surface that is supporting your body and the contact with your feet, hips and torso, touching into your gratitude for the sense of touch. Practice mindful eating. Place a small piece of fresh, unprocessed fruit in the palm of one hand. Smelling it and looking at it, notice perhaps the salivation beginning even before it enters your mouth. Placing it in the mouth, notice the taste, texture and temperature; notice how these slowly change. As you swallow, hear the sounds and feel the sensations of the fruit being digested and becoming part of your body, touching into the gratitude for the sense of smell and taste and the miracle of digestion. Practice mindful walking. Mindfulness can be practiced during routine daily activities. The closer we pay attention to walking, the more grateful we become for the ability to walk. You simply pay complete attention during walking. With eyes open, just walk very slowly and focus your attention on the minute details of balance and your body walking – the heel landing, the weight shifting to the ball of the foot, the foot lifting and landing again. Even with age-related physical challenges, bring attention to your gratitude for your human body and your ability to walk in whatever way you are able. Practice mindful breathing.
Your breath is the great connector between mind and body. The breath is a classic focus of prayer, meditation and mindfulness. Simply feel the physical sensations of the breath as it moves in and out of the nostrils, back and forth across the upper lip, in and out of the back of the throat, in and out of the chest (feeling the ribs expanding and contracting) and the belly (feeling the belly expanding and contracting). Practice mindful bedtime. As you prepare for sleep, it is helpful to reflect on the day, especially noticing those people and circumstances for which you are grateful. Research suggests one’s degree of gratitude is highly predictive of one’s emotional well-being. A specific practice is called What Went Well (aka Three Good Things or Three Blessings). Write down or simply recall three things that went well today. The power of this practice comes from training yourself to notice the things that might otherwise go unappreciated. For instance, I begin my list with “I woke up today.” As you persist with this practice, you find yourself noticing the little things (and people) that you often take completely for granted. Have a mindful morning. As you wake in the morning, before you get out of bed, it is a perfect time to notice the gift of one more day. You can notice your gratitude for another 24 hours and perhaps promise yourself (or a higher power) that you will use this gift for your own health and happiness and the wellbeing of others. Promise yourself
not to waste the precious time you have been given. Aging is both a challenge and an opportunity. Whether you have good health or major medical conditions, mindfulness practices can nurture your gratitude for all of life’s gifts and blessings, large and small. Resource
• I have recorded several guided mindfulness practices you can access at the Mind Body Studio website: www.mindbodystudio. org/?page_id=1594 • Three good things (What went well) gratitude practice by Martin Seligman PhD. www.youtube.com/ watch?v=ZOGAp9dw8Ac&list=WL &index=29
About the Author: Dr. John Patterson is past president of the Kentucky Academy of Family Physicians and is certified in family medicine, mind body medicine, integrative holistic medicine, mindfulnessbased stress reduction, physician coaching and yoga therapy. He is on the faculty of the University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Saybrook College of Integrative Medicine and Health Sciences (Oakland)) and the Center for Mind Body Medicine (Washington, D.C.). He operates the Mind Body Studio in Lexington, where he offers classes, consultations and coaching to manage stress-related conditions and prevent burnout. He can be reached through his website at www. mindbodystudio.org.
ABOUT MIND BODY STUDIO Mind Body Studio
517 Southland Drive, Lexington • 859.373.0033 • www.mindbodystudio.org Offering integrative medicine consultations and experiential health and wellness education to help you mobilize your natural healing ability by integrating mind, body, spirit and our relationship with each other and the earth.
For advertising information call 859.368.0778 or email brian@rockpointpublishing.com | November 2020
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Can Your
Diet Make a Difference with Alzheimer’s Disease?
Is there a connection between Alzheimer’s disease and diet? Recent research reiterates eating a low-fat diet with plenty of specific fruits and vegetables may help prevent Alzheimer’s disease. In a study published in the Archives of Neurology, researchers analyzed the dietary patterns of 2,148 people aged 65 years and older living in New York. The participants were evaluated for signs of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia every year and a half over a four-year period. The researchers analyzed dietary intake for seven nutrients that have been shown in previous studies to be associated with dementia risk: saturated fatty acids, monounsaturated fatty acids, omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, vitamin E, vitamin B12 and folate. By the end of the study, 253 participants had developed Alzheimer’s disease. But one dietary pattern was associated with a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease. This diet included low amounts of high-fat dairy products, red meat, organ meat and butter. Foods featured in this diet were salad dressing, nuts, fish, poultry, tomatoes, fruits and cruciferous and dark and green vegetables. Researchers say the combination of nutrients and foods in this particular dietary pattern may fight Alzheimer’s in a variety of ways. Some foods that may help improve your mind and memory include leafy greens such as kale, spinach and collard and mustard greens (these items are high in folate and B9, which improve cognition and reduce depression); cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts (these contain folate and have carotenoids that lower homo-cysteine, an amino acid linked with cognitive impairment); and beans and legumes,
which also contain folate, as well as iron, magnesium and potassium that can help with neuron firing. They also contain choline, a B vitamin that boosts acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter critical for brain function. You may want to add to your diet whole grains; berries and other fruits that contain antioxidants and anthocyanin, which protect the brain from damage caused by free radicals; and vegetables such as pumpkin, squash, asparagus, tomatoes, carrots and beets. Throw in a handful of nuts as well – almonds, cashews, walnuts, hazelnuts, peanuts and pecans. These all contain omega3s. People whose diets contain daily omega 3s have been shown to have 26-percent less risk of having brain lesions that cause dementia compared with those who do not. You can get omega fatty acids from salmon and other cold-water fish, flax seeds and olive oil or by taking a good-quality omega 3 supplement. Spices such as cinnamon, sage, turmeric and cumin all help break up brain plaque and reduce inflammation of the brain, which can cause memory issues. The brain needs healthy fats, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and adequate vitamins and minerals. Foods to avoid or consume in small quantities include white breads, pasta and processed meats and cheeses, all of which have been linked to Alzheimer’s disease. They build up proteins in the body that are toxic to the brain. Other ways to lower your risk of developing Alzheimer’s include exercising, maintaining a healthy weight, getting eight hours of sleep, stopping smoking and drinking alcohol in moderation, if at all. Sources: • Alzheimer’s.net • Mind Body Green (www.mindbodygreen.com) • WebMd (www.webmd.com)
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