Tag Archives: dementia

Media Twists Findings of Study Linking High Serotonin to Dementia

Serotonin, routinely misrepresented as the “happy hormone,” is actually an antimetabolite, meaning it suppresses your body’s ability to create energy in the electron transport chain of your mitochondria. As a result, high serotonin can lead to fatigue, a slower metabolism and weight gain. The drug industry has a strong incentive to suppress bad press about… Read More »

How Music Helps Unlock Memories and Improve Quality of Life for Dementia Patients

Editor’s Note: This article is a reprint. It was originally published June 8, 2017. Music is a potent form of communication. It conveys emotion — oftentimes far more effectively than words alone. When you hear music, many areas of your brain light up, including your nucleus accumbens, a part of your brain that releases the… Read More »

Sleep test may help diagnose and predict dementia in older adults

Dementia is a growing problem for people as they age, but it often goes undiagnosed. Now investigators at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center have discovered and validated a marker of dementia that may help clinicians identify patients who have the condition or are at risk of developing it. The… Read More »

New Therapies Help Patients With Dementia Cope With Depression

Anne Firmender, 74, was working with her psychologist to come up with a list of her positive attributes. “I cook for others,” said Ms. Firmender. “It’s giving,” encouraged the psychologist, Dimitris Kiosses. “Good kids,” continued Ms. Firmender, who has four grown children and four grandchildren. “And great mother,” added Dr. Kiosses. Ms. Firmender smiled. Dr.… Read More »