Predictive Factors for Initial MMSE Score and Rapid Decline in Alzheimer's Disease Patients
This study is designed to help us better understand Alzheimer's disease. Researchers are looking into why some people with Alzheimer's start with a particular memory and thinking score, and what might make their scores change more quickly over a 12-month period. They'll do this by carefully reviewing existing medical records from patients treated at the Memory Clinic of Gonesse Hospital. They will analyse various details, including age, how much education someone's had, their medical history, what they eat, their mood, and the level of support their caregivers provide. The main aim is to discover what influences a person's early memory and thinking abilities and how fast these might change, so that patient care and future planning can be improved.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is trying to understand more about Alzheimer's disease and how it affects people's memory and thinking. Doctors use a simple test called the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) to check these abilities. This research wants to find out what factors might lead to a person's first score on this test and what might cause that score to go down more quickly over a year.
The researchers will look back at existing medical records of people who have been seen at the Memory Clinic at Gonesse Hospital. They'll be checking for things like a person's age, how many years they went to school, their past medical problems, their diet, their mood, and even how much support their family or carers need to give them. By looking at all these different pieces of information, the study hopes to find patterns.
The main goal is to get a clearer picture of what influences a person's memory and thinking when they are first diagnosed with Alzheimer's, and what might speed up changes in these abilities. This knowledge could help doctors and nurses provide better care and support to people with Alzheimer's disease and their families in the future.
Key takeaways
- The study reviews past medical records of Alzheimer's patients.
- It aims to understand initial memory scores and how they change.
- Researchers will look at factors like age, education, and medical history.
- No new treatments or tests are involved for patients.
- The findings could help improve future Alzheimer's care.
- Patient privacy is protected.
Who may be eligible?
To be included in this study, you would need to have already been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease using specific medical guidelines (NIAA 2018 or IWG 2021 criteria). You also must have had at least two memory and thinking tests (MMSE) at the Memory Clinic of Gonesse Hospital, with a year between the first and second test.
You wouldn't be able to be part of this study if you have other brain conditions that cause memory problems, like certain types of dementia (e.g., Frontotemporal Dementia, Vascular Dementia). Also, if you have moved out of the Gonesse Hospital area, you wouldn't be included as your medical records would no longer be part of this specific clinic's follow-up.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Have I been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease by a doctor?
- Did I have at least two memory tests (MMSE) at Gonesse Hospital, a year apart?
- Do I receive my ongoing care at the Memory Clinic of Gonesse Hospital?
- Do I have any other major brain conditions like different types of dementia?
What does participation involve?
If you or a loved one meets the criteria for this study, there's nothing new you would need to do. This study isn't about taking new medicines or having new tests. Instead, researchers will be looking at existing medical information that has already been collected during your routine appointments and follow-ups at the Memory Clinic of Gonesse Hospital. They will be reviewing these medical notes and test results from the past to understand patterns in people who have Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, there are no additional visits, assessments, or medications involved for participants.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Centre Hospitalier de GonesseVerified postcodeGonesse, France
Common questions
What is the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE)?
It's a common test used by doctors to check a person's memory, attention, language, and other thinking skills. It helps assess cognitive function.
Will I have to take any new medication or have extra tests?
No, this study is reviewing existing medical records. You won't need to take any new medicines or have additional tests for this research.
Is my personal information safe?
Yes, your medical records will be handled with strict confidentiality. The researchers will be looking at information in a way that protects your privacy.
How long will the study last?
The study itself involves reviewing records over a 12-month period for each patient. However, you as an individual are not actively participating in an ongoing trial.
What is the main goal of this research?
The goal is to understand what influences memory and thinking scores in Alzheimer's patients and how quickly these scores change, to help improve future patient care.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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