Alzheimer’s disease is known for how it affects the cognitive abilities of those affected. Recent memory failures, some temporary disorientation, difficulties in complex activities … all these are characteristics of this disease that, even in mild phases, can significantly affect how those affected function in their daily lives. It is what we call ‘impairment of functional capacity’, and it refers to the effects that the disease causes on the areas of functioning of the person: their work, their diet, their hygiene, the management of their economy, their domestic tasks …
A recent study carried out by experts within a clinical trial proposed by the research laboratories of Lilly (a pharmaceutical company), has confirmed the importance of treating cognitive alterations in mild Alzheimer’s patients in order to improve their functional abilities.
The experiment involved the collaboration of more than 1,200 patients diagnosed with mild-stage Alzheimer’s disease, of which half received treatment with a drug and the other half received a placebo. The goal of treatment was to improve mental abilities, which was assessed through various scales widely used in this disease. In addition to assessing memory, verbal fluency, or orientation, the researchers collected information on the ability to perform daily activities in all participants.
The study results, published recently in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease (2015), report some interesting findings:
- In mild Alzheimer’s patients, cognitive alterations are more significant than functional ones.
- the relationship between mental capacities and abilities to carry out daily activities is increasing.
- The pharmacological treatment had an effect on the functional capacity of the participants, but this effect was mediated by the improvement of the cognitive capacities due to the treatment.
These data are positive and encourage the treatment of cognitive alterations in mild stages of Alzheimer’s disease not only because they are relevant in themselves, but because this may allow those affected to maintain their routines and daily activities for longer. That, in addition to being satisfactory for patients, is a shock to their families and caregivers, who will also appreciate it.
Do not stop taking care of your brain because, as we see, the advantages go beyond maintaining memory … it is about maintaining your daily activities.
Marisa Fernández, Senior Neuropsychologist, Unobrain
