Danish Study Shows Migraine Dementia Link

Headaches, including Migraines, are one of the most common neurological disorders in adults. There has been past research that found some connection between migraine headaches and dementia. Now, new research shows a more direct link between migraines in midlife to dementia after age 60.

In a virtual presentation at the American Headache Society annual scientific meeting, Sabrina Islamoska, Ph.D., of the University of Copenhagen, said those who had a hospital diagnosis of migraine in midlife -- at ages 31 to 58 -- had a 50% higher dementia rate after age 60 than people without a migraine diagnosis.

Quoted in MedPage Today, Dr. Islamoska said dementia rates were doubled in migraine patients with an aura.

"The results show that migraine is a risk factor for dementia, especially migraine with aura. This adds to previous studies supporting stronger vascular mechanisms in migraine with aura," she said.

Migraines Previously Connected to Health Issues in Later Life

Years ago, Harvard University studied the connection between migraines and several health issues. Migraines with aura were connected to the risk of developing heart attacks or strokes, in addition to dementia.

According to the Migraine Research Foundation, almost 25% of those who suffer from migraines sufferer this visual disturbance called an aura. It typically lasts less than an hour. These auras are visual disturbances. People report seeing spots, flashes, zig-zags, and stars. Some people actually lose sight for a short period of time.

The American Migraine Foundation says people also experience tingling and numbness. In some cases, people have temporary language problems. These include the inability to find the right word or phrase, or slurring or mumbling the words as they speak.

Information Provides the Power to Plan

Recognizing a possible connection between migraines and dementia can help researchers find root causes and offer treatments or preventions. However, it also gives you the power to plan ahead and address the financial costs and burdens of aging.

People need extended care services for many reasons, in addition to dementia. The cost of care services adversely impacts income and drain savings. Long-term care is both a cash flow issue and a family issue. With a plan for long-term care in place, you reduce the stress and burden on those you love in addition to safeguarding assets.

However, you can't wait until significant health issues start showing up. Most experts say plan before age 60. Premiums are based, in part, by your age, health, family history, and the amount of benefits in the policy. Long-Term Care Insurance is custom designed. If you are in your 40s or 50s, this is an ideal time to prepare your family and finances.