Alzheimer’s Society comment on the link between muscle strength and Alzheimer’s

Researchers at Rush University Medical Center, Chicago discussed whether muscle weakness may be an independent risk factor for Alzheimer's or whether it may be directly caused by some of the changes in the brain that start many years before the dementia symptoms become apparent.  Less likely, lack of muscle strength and associated metabolism could be a contributing factor to the development of Alzheimer's disease.

'In Alzheimer's disease, changes in the brain begin many years before a person begins to develop symptoms of dementia. This study provides a statistical link between weak muscles and increased risk of dementia. Observation of increasing muscle weakness may serve as one of the indicators that could alert GPs to the need for a cognitive assessment.

 

'More research is needed before we can fully understand what causes dementia. One million people will develop dementia in the next ten years. We must act now.'

Dr Susanne Sorensen
Head of Research
Alzheimer's Society

Ref Boyle et al. 'Association of Muscle Strength with the Risk of Alzheimer Disease and the Rate of Cognitive Decline in Community-Dwelling Older Persons' Archives of Neurology Volume 66 (No.11), Nov 2009.

 

Ends

 

Notes to editors:

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 700,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than 20 years nearly a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051.
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them. 
  
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
• Alzheimer's Society needs to raise money to help people live well with dementia today and for research to find a cure for tomorrow. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk 
  
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk