Symptoms and Signs:Loss of short term memory. Remembers and focus on events from the past. Reduced ability to concentrate. Behavioural changes. Paranoid tendency. Depression. Lack of interest and disregard for personal appearance.
Decreased reflexes, sluggish pupils.
Causes:
The cause of senility is currently not known. It is believed that Alzheimer's Disease is the primary cause of severe age-related mental deterioration. Various theories also suggest nutrient deficiencies and long term heavy metal or aluminum exposure.
What to Expect:
Symptoms seldom improve in situations of senility. As mentioned above, this condition is often coupled with Alzheimer's Disease. At a physical level, those dealing with senility experience a shrinking of the brain and changes in nerve cells.
Food Supplements
Essential fatty acids provide your body with necessary fats to ensure proper brain and nervous system function. EFA's can be combined with a B complex vitamin (see below) to improve overall nervous system function. Flaxseed/linseed oil, borage oil, pumpkin seed oil, hemp seed oil, evening primrose oil, fish, eggs, and walnuts are all sources of EFA's. The oils may be the most ideal. Take one tablespoon daily on yogurt, rice and/or bean dishes, salads, and vegetables. If using flaxseed oil capsules, take 2 to 3 capsules daily, in the morning. If using evening primrose oil capsules take 1 500mg capsule daily, in the morning
Do not cook with these oils. Heat denatures these oils and they lose their nutritional value. Be sure to keep oils refrigerated as they will go rancid if not kept cool.
Herbs
Garlic has powerful anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. It also helps lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels, has antioxidant properties, and supports the immune system. Add it to your favourite meal and enjoy the numerous benefits. If you prefer to go "sans aroma", you may also take odourless garlic capsules. If eating whole cloves, take 2 to 4 daily. If using capsules, take 600 to 1,200mg once or twice daily with meals. If using a tincture, take 2 to 4mL three times daily.
Ginkgo biloba is commonly used to improve overall brain function. This herb enhances blood flow to the brain and results in increased oxygen availability and an overall improvement in mental function. Take 100 to 200mg three times daily in liquid or capsule form.
Vitamins
A B-complex supplement helps support your nervous system by providing it with the nutrients it needs to function properly. People with anxiety, depression, or stress (situations that can occur in concert with Alzheimer's) often benefit from addition B vitamins. Take one 50mg capsule once or twice daily. Do not take more than 50mg at one time as your body cannot absorb a larger amount in a single dosage. B complex injections may also be considered for better absorption. You must discuss this option with your naturopath or other health practitioner.
B12 injections may be necessary to address a deficiency. This is the most optimal method for absorption. You must discuss this option with your naturopath or other health practitioner.
Actions and Remedy Listings
For More Information ...
Institute for Human Development, Life Course, and Aging, University of Toronto
http://library.utoronto.ca/www/aging/resource.html
Health Canada's Aging and Seniors Web Resource
Division of Aging and Seniors
Population Health Directorate
Health Canada
Address Locator 1908A1
Ottawa, Ontario
KlA 1B4
Tel.: 613.952.7606
Fax: 613.957.7627
Web: www.hc-sc.gc.ca/seniors-aines
Email: seniors@hc-sc.gc.ca
National Institute on Aging
Building 31, Room 5C27
31 Center Drive, MSC 2292
Bethesda, Maryland
20892
Tel.: 301.496.1752
Web: www.nih.gov/nia
Email: webmaster@nia.nih.gov
See also
Aging, Alzheimer's Disease
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