Current research reveals how being bilingual can delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The Department of Experimental Psychology and Department of Neurology at Ghent University conducted a study that supports such findings. Bilingual and monolingual participants were compared for time of clinical manifestation and diagnosis of AD. Woumans et al. (2013) from Ghent University states, “Results indicated a significant delay for bilinguals of 4.6 years in manifestation and 4.8 years in diagnosis. Our study therefore strengthens the claim that bilingualism contributes to cognitive reserve and postpones the symptoms of dementia.”

April is National Autism Awareness Month. Join us as we support individuals and families with Autism! Health promotion and early interventions help identify Autism during childhood, yet for others diagnoses is established later in life. Adults as well as children fall within the Autism Spectrum. WebMD shares how intelligence and ability to communicate are important factors influencing level of independence for adults with Autism. Connecting with community programs and support groups promotes socialization, opportunities, and provides valuable resources.

Although to date there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, drug therapies aim to improve memory and quality of life. There are two main drug classes: Cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine. Each drug class influences different brain chemicals, and may be prescribed in tandem for optimal results. Medications do not cure Alzheimer’s disease, yet they help with disease management and general wellbeing.