Of all the aging diseases Alzheimer’s brings the most dread probably because it is so insidious. It is a disease that overtakes the mind and leaves a shell with flickering memories.

Before the boomer generation diseases like Alzheimer’s were known but accepted as a natural part of aging. We were not prepared to believe that this and many other diseases associated with old age could not be cured. There is a growing industry devoted to the early detection, prevention and cure of Alzheimer’s.

Detection research centres on finding the ‘Alzheimer gene’ which, like so many other gene related problems can be exorcised or modified to eradicate the disease. Also the concentration on memory, the tests to check its deterioration and those games you can play to keep your brain sharp. These steps are said to lead to a means of prevention.

The cure of course will come from a miracle drug cocktail, which will not only prevent Alzheimer’s but also cure aging itself. We will all live longer, well, not all of us just those who can afford the drugs. And, isn’t this what we always wanted? Extended freedom to go on doing what we have always done, have a great time without considering the consequences.

Some nonbelievers question the value and morality of extending life even scientists involved in the research (see Aging – why extend life). Investigation into the causes of Alzheimer’s points to preservatives and fertilisers both a reaction to 20^th century living styles and population growth.  Let’s face it the worldwide industry researching Alzheimer’s is not altruistic there are big bucks to made. Funds saved by those dealing with the effects could be spent on other priorities.

A quick scan of the Web will dreg up promises from everywhere (see a short selection following). A dip in the Fountain of Youth will not be cheap and a lengthy swim will cost you more than you have. But I would not hold my breath for the magic bullet all the research seems to be at an early stage, human trials pending, drugs to come in 5, 10, 20 years time. How many boomers are going to be around then? How many will be able to use the preventative medicine or the cures?

The next generations presented with these possibilities may choose to accept the Alzheimer’s remedies but how far will they go with anti-aging? Will they be in a position financially or environmentally to pursue extended life. Perhaps they will take a different moral view.

That which is so universal as death must be a blessing

Aging – why extend life?

http://www.technologyreview.com/biomedicine/22954/#afteradbody

http://io9.com/5306489/a-drug-that-could-give-you-perfect-visual-memory

Preservatives and fertilisers associated with Alzheimer’s

http://www.physorg.com/news166078729.html

Test your memory – early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s

http://www.physorg.com/news165517772.html

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/elderhealth/5385191/Scientists-discover-genes-that-slow-ageing-process.html

http://www.scienceblog.com/cms/early-alzheimers-diagnosis-offers-large-social-fiscal-benefits-21036.html

I have always considered myself to be a 'real' baby boomer some one who was born in those critical years after World War II. I have never understood how those born as late as the early Sixties can be considered to be boomers. The other critical test is that being born in the late 40s you were then a teenager in the 60s. The 60s were the best time ever to be a teenager and having lived through/with two more generations of teenager it is hard to see that changing.

Everything happened in the 60s!

The best music ever start at the Beatles and just keep going. The Space race began and only faded when the 60s did. There was a racial revolution, a sexual revolution and women got liberated. Yes, some would say the revolution has gone to far and others not far enough but it all began in the 60s.