When people grow older they sleep less. This commonly accepted change can cause many problems for those who are taking care of an elderly person who has Alzheimer's. It is not just about someone staying awake at night, but about the chances of that person getting confused and wandering or having an accident in the house. Often the caretakers lose well needed sleep, and there is a niggling doubt that the sleeplessness is due to bad management of the patient's routine during the day.

For the first time, there is research which looks at the physical reason for this lack of sleep. The Sa[er lab at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) found that certain inhibitory neurons were reponsible for making us sleep. When these neurons are lost in elderly people or those with Alzheimer's the ability to sleep normally is greatly reduced.

The researchers have tested their hypothesis by analysing data from  the Rush Memory and Aging Project, which has been studying of aging and dementia in almost 1000 people since 1997. This is a remarkable study, healthy subjects entered at the age of 65, and they are followed for the rest of their lives. When they die, their brains are donated for research.

"The fewer the neurons, the more fragmented the sleep became." says Saper. The study may lead to new methods to decrease sleep problems in the elderly and prevent sleep-deprivation-related cognitive decline in people with dementia. Read more about the research here.

In a noteworty development a woman diagnosed with Alzheimers found that she actually did not have the disease after further investigations. This is not just a momentuous finding for one individual, but a remarkable step forward for everyone who is interested in Alzheimers. Read about it here.

Dementia is a global issue, and around the world communities and governments are rising to meet the challenge. One sees hope that the families and patients who have been dealing with dementia related issues will now get greater support.

India needs more initiatives in this area. What needs to change first is society's attitude towards dementia. In London an international dementia summit is to be held on the 11th of December. I plan to tune into the proceedings online and watch. Do find time to take a look. Learn about dementia and understand how you, your family and community need to be involved.

In my search for the best interventions and services that can be offered to people with dementia, today I came across a Youtube video on End of Life that really uplifted my expectations, showed me what was possible. Yes dementia will have it's way, but some things can be still made better with planning and care. Do write in your comments and opinions after watching the video. Don't miss her smile at the end in recognition of her grandchild.

Today is "Bestu Varsh" the Hindu New Year. After Diwali which is the festival of lights, the advent of a new year brings hope and the promise of renewal. Wishing all my freinds and supporters and their families a year of heath & happiness.

I have been away from the blog and site for some time having been occupied with the shifting base from Gandhinagar to Ahmedabad, so that I can take Plus-Care forward. I am also attending Coursera's online sessions on Caregiving for Elders with Alzheimer's.

One of my fellow participant's has posted a poem in the forum from a local magazine, Caledon Spectrum, vol 4, issue ii, Autumn 2013 (p53). I thought
 I must share it with all of you:

An Alzheimer Patient's Ten Requests

Please be patient with me
I am the helpless victim of a brain disease.
Talk to me.
Even though I can not always answer.
Be kind to me.
Each day of my life is a desperate struggle.
Consider my feelings.
They are still very much alive within me.
Treat me with dignity and respect.
As I would have gladly treated you.
Remember my past.
For I was once a healthy vibrant person.
Remember my present.
For I am still living.
Remember my future.
Though it may seem bleak to you.
Pray for me.
For I am a person who lingers in
the mists of time and eternity.
Love me.
And the gifts of love you give will be a
blessing forever ...
                        ---- Anonymous
       

Nightingales Trust completed its walk from Kolar to Bangalore to create awareness about dementia on the occasion of World Alzheimer's Day. Other cities in India also need to create awareness about dementia and support systems for the patients and their families. Read more about the walk here.

What is the difference in caring for elders with Alzheimer's or other similar forms of dementia. or even people affected by other types of illness or disability, These illnesses are complex and may take different paths in different cases. A recent research reiterates what many care givers know, caregiving in these situations is a very stressful. The report is available on the Carer's Trust website. The progression of the disease is unpredictable. Caregivers may need to understand the issues and need support at various levels. Counseling, medical advice, social support and sometimes even legal and financial advice are important. .Caregivers are at a greater risk for depression. Family members and medical professionals need to understand this and extend their support.