Blood Thinner Use Linked to Slower Alzheimer's Cognitive Decline

A study suggests that long-term use of blood thinners may slow down cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's disease. The research, published in the journal Neurology, found that patients who took anticoagulants had a lower rate of cognitive decline compared to those who did not.

The study involved over 10,000 participants aged 65 and older, with no history of dementia at the start. Over an average follow-up period of eight years, researchers found that those taking anticoagulants had a 23% slower rate of cognitive decline compared to non-users.

Dr. Jeffrey Williamson, one of the study's authors, stated, 'These findings suggest that long-term use of anticoagulants may have a significant impact on Alzheimer’s-related cognitive decline.' However, he cautioned that more research is needed to confirm these results and understand the mechanisms behind them.