Cognitively healthy older adults who self-reported memory loss are more likely to have elevated levels of a proteins connected to Alzheimer’s disease, according to a study published this week in Neurology. The findings, if supported by further research, could aid doctors in diagnosing and treating the condition at a younger age.
Nearly 700 adults, averaging 72 years old, participated in Harvard Medical School’s research, which started with a cognitive test to ensure they didn’t have any impairments. They were then asked about their memory and thinking skills, as well as how well they did on completing daily tasks. Each participant’s partner, whether friend, child or spouse, was asked the same questions.
Finally, the study participants had a brain scan done to look for amyloid plaques and tau tangles, which are protein markers of Alzheimer’s. Around 60% of people in the study had higher levels of amyloid in their brain, and those who have elevated amyloid levels are also more likely to have elevated tau levels.
“Our findings suggest that asking older people who have elevated Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers about subjective cognitive decline may be valuable for early detection,” said lead study author Rebecca E. Amariglio, PhD. “This is particularly important since it is predicted that treatments given at the earliest diagnosable form of the disease will be the most effective in slowing the disease.”
