New Treatments for Brain Disorders

Posted Wednesday, February 24, 2010

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The Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health has only been open for about 6 months. They're pursuing innovative means of treating degenerative brain disorders, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, which have historically left doctors dumbfounded. Among the therapies they are finding to be effective are music and art. Doctors say, while memory is lost with aging, creative qualities are left intact. Wednesday morning at 9, one of the Clinic's top brain doctors joins host Dan Moulthrop to talk about brain disorder treatments and ways to keep your brain healthy throughout life.

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Guests

Dr. Randolph Schiffer, Director, Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health
Kerry Lanigan, Care Consultant, Alzheimer’s Association Cleveland Chapter

Additional Information

Preventing Alzheimer's Disease, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation

Please follow our community discussion rules when composing your comments.

Meagan 10:20 AM 2/24/10

Both of my paternal grandparents have Parkinsons and so I am curious about the correlation between genetics and the brain disorders being discussed.
Also I have heard that there may be a relation between the chemicals in the foods we eat and these disorders. Have there been any studies regarding this?

Todd Szopo 10:30 AM 2/24/10

When talking about learning new things. To what extent does one need to go. Like learning a short poem or listing to a show like this to better understand science?

Karen 10:42 AM 2/24/10

The fourth partner for the program at the Cleveland Musuem of Art is the Alzheimer’s Association, Cleveland Area Chapter. Please make sure that your listeners know. Thanks!

Susan 11:30 AM 2/24/10

I’m so glad Ms. Lanigan mentioned the inconsistent symptoms an Alzheimer’s patient can exhibit. My mother was diagnosed in March of ‘09, and her diagnosis was met with denial and disbelief from many of her friends and my brother. Despite the fact that 3 doctors eventually concurred, this denial continued. The best thing a person can do when someone you care about is diagnosed is educate yourself about the disease. When a medical professional recommends an Alzheimer’s assisted living facility, it is not for the convenience of the family. It is because a proper unit can provide therapy and stimulation that is not possible in a home environment. My mother was ultimately “granny napped” and sent to live with my brother in Texas in order to avoid having me named as her guardian. She passed away 8 months later, and while I have no medical proof, I believe the inadequate care she received while in Texas contributed to her early death. Her dementia was significant enough that it was listed on her death certificate as a 3rd contributing factor to her death. Please, educate yourself about this disease!! You do those who you care about no good by living in ignorance and denial.