OPICA Blog

At this year’s International Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC), the University of Exeter presented their findings from a large-scale trial for Goal-oriented Cognitive Rehabilitation. In the study, participants in early-stage Alzheimer’s or related dementia from eight care facilities in England and Wales partook of cognitive rehabilitation therapy. These participants showed significant improvement in cognitive abilities. […]

The medical journal Lancet reports that at least 35% of seniors who suffer memory loss have exposures to harms as early as birth and that if we resolve these harms we can preserve independence and dignity for magnitudes of people. The Los Angeles Times published an article July 20, 2017, that proposes more than 1 in

According to research, meditation is the antidote for chronic stress. Meditation on a regular basis resolves many of the emotional and biological consequences of prolonged stress, like that experienced by most CAREgivers. Research constantly demonstrates that meditating produces activity in the brain that results in decreased anxiety and depression, and increased tolerance for pain.  These

The New York Times reports that there may be a link between chronic pain and increased risk of dementia. The June 2017 article gives details about a research project that involved 10,065 people over age 62, who suffered from “persistent pain,” which participants defined as being moderate or severe pain. All participants had their health

For adults challenged by memory loss exercise is more than exercise. Physical exercise, including walks in the park, contribute to an active lifestyle that research confirms can improve the physical and mental health of persons with dementia. The New York Times recently reported on research which suggests that frequent, brisk walks might improve memory and physical

For people with dementia, the world is often confusing and unsettling. Global discussion about the benefits of art therapy for people with dementia includes abundant proof that art improves self-esteem, provides a positive outlet for emotions and helps access pockets of memory believed to be lost forever. In the documentary “I Remember Better When I Paint”