The study, "Improved Cognition in People with Cognitive Decline: A Multimodal Intervention Approach," is published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease Volume (94) Issue (3) and focused on individuals with objective cognitive impairment (OCI), a precursor to Alzheimer's disease. Dr. Sandison and her team recruited 34 participants from the San Diego, CA area to receive a comprehensive intervention based on potential contributors to cognitive decline, such as lifestyle changes, nutraceutical support, and medications.
Caption: Dr. Heather Sandison
Over the course of six months, the participants underwent regular clinical visits and received ongoing nutrition support through weekly phone calls. Cognitive function was assessed using the Cambridge Brain Sciences (CBS) battery and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) at baseline, one, three, and six months.
The results of the study were highly encouraging. After six months of intervention, the participants demonstrated significant improvements in cognitive function. MoCA scores increased from 19.6 ± 3.1 to 21.7 ± 6.2 (p = 0.013), indicating enhanced cognitive performance. Moreover, significant improvements were observed across all domains of the CBS cognitive battery, including memory, reasoning, verbal ability, and concentration.
Dr. Sandison commented, "It is so fulfilling to see patients improve and watch meaningful change not only for the patient but also their loved ones as they regain cognitive function. I’m hopeful these findings start the process of turning anecdotes into statistics and more patients begin to have access to this type of treatment."
The study's results have important implications for the field of Alzheimer's research and care. Currently, 6.5 million Americans have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and this number is only growing. This study highlights the importance of addressing cognitive decline through a holistic and personalized approach, targeting various factors that contribute to the progression of the disease. The study demonstrates the feasibility and impact of a multimodal intervention approach to cognitive impairment.
Further research is warranted to validate and expand upon these findings. Dr. Sandison's study represents a significant step forward in understanding and treating cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's disease. It underscores the importance of personalized, comprehensive care for individuals with cognitive impairment and sets the stage for future advancements in the field.
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NOTES FOR EDITORS
Contact
Barbara Zerbe
Dr. Heather Sandison
Phone: +1 805.648.1870
References
Sandison, Heather, et al. “Observed Improvement in Cognition during a Personalized Lifestyle Intervention in People with Cognitive Decline.” Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, 2023, pp. 1–12, https://doi.org/10.3233/jad-230004.
About Dr. Heather Sandison
Dr. Heather Sandison is a renowned naturopathic doctor specializing in neurocognitive medicine and the founder of Solcere and Marama. With expertise in Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementia (ADRD) care, Dr. Sandison is dedicated to advancing integrative approaches to address cognitive decline. Her research and clinical work focus on developing personalized, multimodal interventions to improve cognitive function and quality of life for individuals with cognitive impairments. She is committed to advancing research and innovative approaches to Alzheimer's and cognitive decline management, providing hope for patients and families.
About the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease
Now in its 26th year of publication, the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease (JAD) is an international multidisciplinary journal to facilitate progress in understanding the etiology, pathogenesis, epidemiology, genetics, behavior, treatment, and psychology of Alzheimer’s disease. The journal publishes research reports, reviews, short communications, book reviews, and letters-to-the-editor. Groundbreaking research that has appeared in the journal includes novel therapeutic targets, mechanisms of disease, and clinical trial outcomes. JAD has a Journal Impact Factor of 4 according to Journal Citation Reports (Clarivate, 2023). The journal is published by IOS Press. j-alz.com
About IOS Press
IOS Press is an independent international scientific, technical, medical (STM) publishing house established in 1987 in Amsterdam. We produce around 90 journals and 70 books annually in a broad range of subject categories, primarily specializing in health and life sciences (including neurosciences, medical informatics, cancer research, and rehabilitation) and computer sciences (including artificial intelligence, data science, and semantic web). In addition, we offer specialized services that support scientific advancement. iospress.com
Photos
Additional and original images available upon request barbara@bzstrategies.com
