Predicting Dementia

Predicting Dementia Studied Through In-Home Monitors

It’s well known that early detection in the majority of illnesses can deter if not eliminate a disease’s progression.   Alzheimer’s is one of those illnesses able to remain masked throughout much of its early stages.  Because of the gradual rate at which symptoms of memory loss become apparent and the expense involved in routine testing, early detection is not as easy as it might seem.  

With 26 million people worldwide currently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and that number projected to skyrocket in the coming years, scientists are searching for cost-effective and reliable early detection methods.

Dr. Jeffrey Kaye of Oregon Health & Science University is currently working on an in-home monitoring system that would be able to detect the gradual mental decline associated with Alzheimer’s.  As part of a $7 million federally funded project, 300 homes of Portland-area octogenarians (80s age group) are receiving monitors in their homes that will gauge certain daily activities such as the time it takes to walk down a hall or get dressed in the morning, or any of their other daily rituals.  Interactive “kiosks” placed in these homes can also be used to administer monthly cognition and memory tests, track typing speed and register those times that a senior may forget to take their medicine. 

New York’s Mount Sinai School of Medicine is heading up a study that will include some 600 volunteers over the age of 75 who will receive an in-home “kiosk” that will administer monthly cognitive tests.  Data retrieved from these “kiosks” can help in the recognition of cognitive decline that may otherwise have gone undetected.    

Dementia related to Alzheimer’s is gradual and may vary from one day to the next.   There can be good days and there can be bad days.  In the early stages, it is not unusual for a patient to compensate their behaviour when put in social situations, including during visits to the doctor.  For those with a family history of the illness or those concerned about their possible risk to Alzheimer’s, this type of in-home monitoring might prove valuable for early detection should symptoms actually surface or   for added peace of mind even if they don’t.