Scientists may develop Alzheimer's eye test for retirement living seniors

While the effects of Alzheimer's Disease are startling, diagnosing the mental illness is often difficult. Retirement living seniors who believe they have the disease often endure a series of evaluations, rather than being given one single test.


Now, a group of Boston University scientists may have made a breakthrough in creating a clear-cut Alzheimer's diagnosis.

The researchers discovered that a toxic protein is found in the brains of patients with the disease - as well as people with Down syndrome.


"People with Down syndrome develop symptoms of Alzheimer's-type dementia often by the age of 30," said Lee E. Goldstein, senior corresponding author.


The findings may lead to the development of an eye exam that can prove if a retirement living senior has developed the debilitating mental illness.


The Alzheimer's Association reports that 5.3 billion people are suffering from the disease worldwide. And while a cure for the illness is certainly important, people should rest assured that progress is happening.


"The lens provides a window to the brain," said co-lead author Juliet A. Moncaster.


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