Loss of Smell May be a Sign of Alzheimer’s

A recent study has revealed a link between a declining sense of smell and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s disease.  Researchers found that neurodegeneration associated with Alzheimer’s has a notable effect on the brain circuits that process our sense of smell.

The 2016 study was conducted by the Massachusetts General Hospital and involved a group of 183 participants of which 70 were cognitively normal and 74 tested normal on cognitive tests but were concerned about their cognitive abilities.  Another 29 had MCI and 10 had been diagnosed with possible Alzheimer’s.  Those who performed more poorly on the olfactory tests were found more likely to have the variant of the APOE gene, related to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s.  One of the study’s authors, Mark Albers, MD, PhD, assistant professor of neurology at Mass General Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, states, “There is increasing evidence that the neurodegeneration behind Alzheimer’s disease starts at least 10 years before the onset of memory symptoms.”  Furthermore he stresses the benefit of an early diagnosis as the individuals can begin appropriate therapeutic treatments. 

Dr. Albers continues, “If these results hold up, this sort of inexpensive, noninvasive screening could help us identify the best candidates for novel therapies.”  In addition identifying the disease early may also be instrumental in helping to develop effective treatments that will delay and slow the progress of the disease.    

MorningStar at Englefield Green is a specialized dementia care community that provides the Boise, Idaho area with compassionate, individualized memory care for those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our 50 suites include studio and one-and two bedrooms floor plans and all of the amenities and services required to provide the best care.  To get a first-hand look at our loving home, we suggest you schedule a tour.  If your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, we are here to help. 

MorningStar at Englefield Green embodies the very best in senior living with a distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” that sets us apart from other senior living communities.  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please set up a tour to see for yourself one of the area’s most compassionate Alzheimer’s care homes.    

Source: universityhealthnews.com/daily/memory/losing-sense-of-smell-is-early-sign-dementia/