The AARP Bulletin reports on reaction to a potential blood test for Alzheimer’s disease. While some experts heralded the news, others worried that, until effective treatments are available, learning that you’re likely to develop Alzheimer’s could cause more harm than good. There’s already good evidence that simple lifestyle changes can help slow the likelihood of developing dementia, says Jason Karlawish, MD, professor of Medicine and Medical Ethics and Health Policy, and Associate Director of the Penn Memory Center, who was not involved in developing the test. “A heart-healthy diet, physical activity, and social and cognitive stimulation can help preserve cognitive function,” he says. People who learn that they are at high risk of developing Alzheimer’s may be more motivated to make healthy changes.
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