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Depression may be Untreated in Parkinson's Patients

Written by University of Alberta

Recent research suggests that depression is common in early Parkinson’s disease (PD), it is often not treated or diagnosed, according to newly released research. The study authored by Bernard Ravina, MD at the University of Rochester found that just over 27 per cent of PD subjects screened positive for depression, while 40 per cent of subjects’ depression went untreated.

This study, published in Neurology journal, claims to be the first to systematically examine the impact of depressive symptoms in early, untreated PD. Previous research has found that depression, in some form, affects up to 50 per cent of patients with PD and is associated with increased disability and reduced quality of life.

Dr. Richard Camicioli, assistant neurology professor at the University of Alberta and a co-author of the study, stated that “Our results show that depression in PD appears to be under diagnosed, especially at the early stages of PD. That may be because symptoms of depression, such as fatigue and insomnia, may be attributed to PD rather than as symptoms of depression. As seen in this study, many treated patients remained depressed and may require more intensive psychiatric treatment.”

Can Foods Improve Memory?

Written by Webmaster
In the quest to improve memory and concentration many seniors have turned to food and nutrition to improve memory. Some even call it brain food. Certain foods and nutrients that are sometimes used to improve memory, concentration and the health of the brain. While some studies have shown that some foods may improve memory and concentration, motivation and memory; there is no one one magic food for memory. Certain nutrients contained in foods are used by the body to manufacture brain chemicals. Some of these chemicals have been shown to decrease as we age. Foods rich in these nutrients may improve reaction time, concentration and memory. Proteins may improve memory by enhancing the brains production of dopamine, which is a natural chemical that helps to keep you alert. Dopamine from protein isn’t available to the brain until four hours after eating foods that contain protein. Some recommend keeping a steady source of protein available to the body by eating 4-6 ounces of meat or almonds, fish and other protein sources, each day to meet your needs.
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Weightlifting for Seniors

Written by Webmaster

While you probably aren’t looking to get buff and toned, weight lifting can be a great way for seniors to stay healthy. In fact, strength training is recommended for anyone past the age of 50. If you build your strength and stay fit, you could keep up this activity well into your nineties. (Ask your doctor before beginning any new exercise program.)

Many seniors are apprehensive about weight lifting because they don’t want to risk injury, but building muscles can actually prevent injury. Yes, there is a risk of injuring yourself while lifting weights, but if you take precautions and lift correctly; the likelihood of hurting yourself is small compared to the benefit. Increased muscle mass gives you increase stability and balance. This means you’re less likely to fall and sustain a serious injury.

Strength training not only builds muscle mass, it also helps prevent loss of bone mass. Bearing your weight on bones makes them stronger and less likely to break from osteoporosis or from an accident.