An Elephant’s Memory and Alzheimer’s Disease May Have an Interesting Connection

Sad elephant sitting on a bench on the glade - elephant's memory and alzhiemer's
Can we learn something about Alzheimer’s from an elephant? Learn more in this article.

The old saying is true: elephants actually do have impressive memories, even into their old age. To illustrate, they are able to recollect and go back to very particular locations years after visiting them, irrespective of age. Just what can we glean from elephants which may lead to improving our own understanding of memory and Alzheimer’s?

Remarkably, elder elephants’ brains reveal no accumulation of the amyloid plaques many experts are linking to Alzheimer’s. And even though other health professionals tout the necessity for ample sleep to allow the brain the chance to clean away plaques, elephants are stamping over that theory, sleeping less than 2 hours each day.

But one variable rises above the rest that just may be the main key: socialization. Research increasingly points out the connection between isolation and cognitive decline, and the benefit of preserving strong personal contacts. Elephants remain socially involved with close family herds for a lifetime, whereas our human busyness frequently prevents the type of significant, sustained relationships we so desperately require.

Investing quality time with your senior loved ones is simpler with just a little assistance from the specialized caregivers at Heaven at Home Senior Care. We’re on hand to support with housework, shopping, cooking, personal care needs, and much more, freeing up valuable time for older adults and their loved ones.

We’re also knowledgeable in encouraging older adults to become active and involved with the world around them, and can provide transportation and accompaniment to senior centers, exercise programs, and interesting excursions, as well as increasing socialization right in the home with conversations, games, and pleasant activities.

As we await a cure or at the least an effective treatment option for Alzheimer’s disease, be aware that the care team at Heaven at Home Senior Care’s home care team is fully experienced and skilled in specialized dementia care. Because of this, those impacted by the disease are equipped to live life to their highest possible potential, and family caregivers have the assistance they want in dealing with a number of the more difficult aspects of the disease, such as sundowning, aggression, wandering, and more.

For professional Argyle home health care call our home care experts at 866-381-0500 or contact us online to take the initial step in boosting quality of life for your senior loved one! We’re available for as much or as little care as required, from just a couple hours enabling family members to take a much needed break from care, up to and including full-time, around-the-clock care, and anything in between. For a full list of the communities where we provide care, please visit our Service Area page.