Natural Treatments to Improve Seniors’ Health

A recent study in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia reveals that the risk of serious memory problems may be lower among seniors today than among adults who were over 70 in the 1990s.

 

The study suggests a number of possible reasons for this trend; higher levels of formal education and other mentally -stimulating activities may help.   Better cardiovascular health, including getting medical treatment for high cholesterol and hypertension, also seems to be beneficial.  You can find a good summary of the report in this New York Times article.

The University of Hong Kong is also investigating Alzheimer’s disease.  Laboratory research there found that an extract of the Chinese herb Lingzhi, Reishi mushroom, helped to prevent synaptic degeneration.  This provides preliminary evidence that Reishi may be helpful in treating Alzheimer’s disease.  Reishi mushroom has been used for centuries in China and other Asian countries as a general health tonic.

A natural supplement may also contribute to the physical health of senior citizens.  Yale University Medical School examined the impact of vitamin E on physical function, tracking participants over the course of three years.  Researchers found that a lower blood concentration of vitamin E correlated with poorer physical performance in the tests.  Further research is needed to determine the proper dosage for vitamin E supplementation, since high amounts of vitamin E can be dangerous.