Study Shows Drop In Anxiety, Depression
　　Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia in the elderly.

Dementia is a medical condition that alters the way the brain works. AD affects the parts of the brain that control thought, memory and language.

Though every day scientists learn more about AD, the cause of the disease is still unknown, and there is no cure.

An estimated 4 million people in the United States suffer from AD.

Symptoms of Alzheimer's include forgetting how to do simple tasks, like brushing their teeth or combing their hair. They can no longer think clearly and they begin to have trouble speaking, understanding, reading or writing.

People with AD may become aggressive and wander away from home. More than 50 percent of people with Alzheimer's disease experience anxiety and depression.

Natural Healing

The Alzheimer's Association funded a study by Wellesley College Center for Research on Women to test the effectiveness of acupuncture in Alzheimer's patients.

Acupuncture has been recognized as a potentially effective therapy by the National Institutes of Health's Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine and the World Health Organization. Acupuncture has little to no side effects if performed properly.

The study showed that acupuncture significantly reduces depression and anxiety in most patients with dementia. The hope is that acupuncture will improve the life of Alzheimer's patients by altering their mood, behavioral symptoms and overall sense of well being.

Acupuncture is most often practiced by inserting needles into specified points in the patient's body. Acupuncture is thought to unblock the "flow of energy" through the body.

It is also thought to increase blood flow to the brain and lessen inflammation in the body, which is a problem associated with Alzheimer's. By stimulating certain points in the body, acupuncture can increase the level of energy or move energy from one place to another.

What You Need To Know

First, consult your physician before considering acupuncture therapy. It is then important to interview the prospective acupuncturist and inquire about their licensing, training and experience in treating ailments in the elderly.

Other considerations include cost and location. Some acupuncturists will come to your home if you are unable to travel. Acupuncture is now beginning to be covered by some insurance companies.

According to 10News, in the next phase of the study, researchers will follow patients for ten weeks after the treatment to see if the benefits are sustained.

(From Yahoo)