Dementia and related diseases have the potential to cripple our health-care system. As my grandmother passed away from Alzheimer’s disease, Montero Odasso’s walking and dementia research is a new path along which I am keen to venture (Patients’ walks may aid early dementia detection, Feb. 12).
However, I was disappointed a distinction in diagnoses was omitted.
It is important to note that dementia and Alzheimer’s are two different branches of the same devastating tree. Dementia is an umbrella term encompassing many signs of cognitive decline, whereas Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia and is specific to memory, thought and behaviour. It is important that the public be knowledgeable about the effects of each of these on cognition and motor ability.
Although the research project relates to early dementia detection, the brain needs to be safeguarded prior to the actual onset of dementia. Through innovative research projects we can surely be proactive in this regard.
Could Montero Odasso’s project provide a stepping-stone towards a more hopeful future for dementia patients?
Remembering my grandmother involves a difficult walk down memory lane. Here’s hoping walking for research is far less arduous.
Cara Summers
Fourth-year Science Student
Honors Specialization Biology, Minor Medical Sciences