Home Matters, an homecare company, believes there’s never been a more encouraging time for Alzheimer’s research than now, and new developments seem to be appearing every week. The latest findings are slated to have a huge impact in the quest for treatments and a cure: the correlation between Alzheimer’s and the body’s natural immune response to infections.

While scientists have been studying the connection between the beta amyloid protein and Alzheimer’s, the most recent news comes from the discovery that this protein is displaying the capability of fighting off infections in mice. Some drug trials have tried to get rid of this bacteria-fighting protein, which could be dangerous if beta amyloid works similarly in humans.

If this theory is correct, it follows that Alzheimer’s is likely triggered by an over-reactive immune response to a pathogen, causing problems in older brains that are unable to handle the overload.

While the findings are inconclusive, they match up with what we already know about the importance of proper sleep, exercise and a healthy diet, now showing that they could even potentially prevent Alzheimer’s. This research marks the way forward for other potential treatment options, such as inflammatory reduction medications and vaccines.

Contact Home Matters to learn more about how our homecare company can help seniors with Alzheimer’s, and their families, live more peaceful, comfortable lives.