Tuesday, December 5, 2023

Dr. Curtis Cripe: Ways to Show Support to a Loved One with Dementia

 

Dr. Curtis Cripe on Helping Loved Ones Cope with Dementia



Coping with dementia, whether you're the one experiencing it or supporting a loved one, can be challenging. Dr. Curtis Cripe shares simple ways to provide comfort and understanding.

Patience is key
Dementia can make things confusing and frustrating. Being patient and giving more time for tasks and talks creates a helpful environment.

Maintain routine
Keeping things the same is comforting. Stick to regular routines because changes can be confusing for people with dementia. Dr. Curtis Cripe says that a familiar routine makes a dementia patient feel safe.

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Simplify communication
Use clear and simple language. Break down information into smaller, understandable bits. Maintain eye contact and be attentive to non-verbal cues to connect better.

Encourage independence

Even if someone has dementia, it's nice for them to feel independent. Let them join in on everyday activities as much as they can. According to Dr. Curtis Cripe, it helps them feel good about what they can do.


Create a safe environment.
Ensure the living space is safe and supportive. Remove hazards, label essential items, and consider installing safety features like handrails to prevent accidents.

Foster social connections
Encourage social interactions. Spending time with loved ones and friends or participating in social activities can bring joy and emotional support.

Engage in activities that boost memory.
Memory-related activities can be beneficial. Simple games, looking at old photos, or reminiscing can stimulate cognitive function and provide a sense of connection.

Image source: envato.com

Seek professional help
Don't hesitate to consult healthcare professionals specializing in dementia care. These experts can provide valuable guidance, support, and resources tailored to individual needs.

Join a support group.
Dr. Curtis Cripe shares that connecting with others living through similar experiences can be helpful. Support groups provide a platform to share insights, advice, and emotional support.

Helping a loved one cope with dementia requires compassion, patience, and adaptability. By incorporating these simple strategies into your caregiving routine, you contribute to creating a more supportive and comforting environment. Remember, you're not alone, and seeking assistance from healthcare professionals and support groups can make the journey more manageable for you and your loved one.

For more reads on brain health and other related topics, follow this page for brain development expert Dr. Curtis Cripe.

Thursday, November 9, 2023

Dr. Curtis Cripe: Surprising Ways to Keep the Brain Young

 

Dr. Curtis Cripe: How to Keep Your Brain Young



We exercise to keep our bodies young and healthy, right? But how about our brains? Though our brains are always active—even when asleep—Dr. Curtis Cripe emphasizes that the quality of brain activity is where the focus should be if we want to keep our brains young and healthy. And luckily, keeping our brains sharp doesn't require bizarre techniques. Here are three activities Dr. Curtis Cripe recommends for keeping your brain young.

Read Fiction


Generally, reading is a great way to think creatively and expand our minds. But we can reap even more amazing benefits if we pay attention to how we're reading. Dr. Curtis Cripe says that rather than just halfheartedly reading a few pages before you go to sleep because you heard it can be good for you, embrace the escape—let your mind wander into a different world. It generates blood flow in the brain and activates a balance of frequencies that can stimulate healthy neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity is the capacity of neurons in the brain to change their connections in response to new information, sensory stimulation, development, damage, or dysfunction. If you want to keep your brain young, you need to drive neuroplasticity in a healthy direction.

Image source: images.pexels.com


Play Ping Pong

Dr. Curtis Cripe notes that a challenging puzzle stimulates gamma activity in the brain. It is excellent for creativity and keeping the brain young. And it turns out it's not just puzzles that can stimulate the brain. The American Academy of Neurology found that people with Parkinson's who played ping pong once a week for six months showed improvement in their symptoms. Some studies have shown that ping pong can help sharpen reflexes, improve hand-eye coordination, and stimulate the brain.



Walk and Daydream


Dr. Curtis Cripe says that allowing your body and mind to wander every day will engage the 200 different sections of the brain in a stimulating and creative way. There's no need for a specific train of thought, and the point is to let your mind wander.

Learn more about NTL Group's research and development head Dr. Curtis Cripe and the work he does by clicking this link.

Wednesday, October 4, 2023

Dr. Curtis Cripe on Neuroplasticity: How Does It Work?

 

Dr. Curtis Cripe: Your Brain's Ability to Heal from Damage

According to Dr. Curtis Cripe, NTL Group's director of research and development, recovery from a neurological injury (such as a stroke) should have a holistic approach that includes natural remedies and rehabilitative therapies. In doing so, the brain's natural ability to heal from damage can be harnessed.

To help you on the road to recovery, Dr. Curtis Cripe explains how the brain naturally recovers from brain damage.

Image source: istockphoto.com

Recovery from brain damage is a long road, but it's a road that the brain can handle naturally, thanks to neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity is a concept for recovery from any injury that impacts the central nervous system. It is a process that allows the brain to improve its efficiency continuously, says Dr. Curtis Cripe. It involves strengthening neural connections in response to the physical activities that you frequently do. It is where the well-known saying "practice makes perfect" comes from.

When brain damage occurs from a traumatic brain injury or stroke, the damaged area cannot be recovered. However, neuroplasticity enables unaffected areas of the brain to acquire new functions.

For instance, if a brain sustains damage in the motor cortex (the area of the brain that generates signals to direct movement), the individual may struggle with leg or arm function. Although most damaged brain cells cannot be recovered, some areas of the brain can replace them and substitute for the loss of motion, notes Dr. Curtis Cripe.

Image source: istockphoto.com


One of the best ways to encourage the brain to naturally recover from brain damage is to achieve "massed practice." In this case, it would involve rehab exercises for the affected body parts (i.e., physical therapy). It turns on neuroplasticity and allows the brain to rewire itself. Learn more about NTL Group's research and development head Dr. Curtis Cripe and the work he does by clicking this link.

Thursday, September 7, 2023

Dr. Curtis Cripe Discusses Telemedicine and Its Benefits

 

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Dr. Curtis Cripe: The Advantages of Telemedicine.

Dr. Curtis Cripe and the NTL Group believe that medicine and technology are two sides of the same coin. Over the past decade, medical technologies have advanced at an astonishing rate, changing how we approach healthcare. With the help of these technologies, doctors and medical professionals can provide more accurate diagnoses and better treatments and improve overall patient outcomes. 


Dr. Curtis Cripe has been at the forefront of this technological revolution, and he's been writing about it for years to give people a clearer understanding of what these technologies mean for the future of medicine. From artificial intelligence to virtual reality, the potential applications of these technologies are limitless, and it's exciting to see where they'll take us in the coming years.


Today, Dr. Curtis Cripe looks back at and reviews one of the biggest technological developments in research and healthcare – telemedicine.

 

Telemedicine was conceptualized over half a century ago. It has now become a reality. It provides a way to treat patients in far-flung areas with minimal healthcare or medical professionals access. Advancements and technological breakthroughs have helped telemedicine evolve, where people can virtually see doctors and vice-versa. Doctors can see patients from just about anywhere in the world – as long as there's an internet connection.

 

According to Dr. Curtis Cripe, telemedicine has not only allowed access from doctors to patients, but in recent years, drones have been able to send medication to places that motor vehicles would otherwise not reach. These drones play a significant role, especially during emergencies with volatile circumstances. They keep medical workers safe while ensuring quick treatment.


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Speaking of emergencies, Dr. Curtis Cripe also mentions that telemedicine has drastically cut the time patients with urgent medical conditions receive anything they need, from medicine to consultations.

 

On a final note, amazingly, but not surprisingly, telemedicine has impacted industries other than healthcare. Dr. Curtis Cripe says that sports are the perfect example of this, as physicians get to almost immediately address injuries when athletes get into accidents while training or competing.

 

 Dr. Curtis Cripe has a diverse multidisciplinary professional and academic background behind him, having worked in aerospace, engineering, software development, bioengineering, addiction recovery, psychophysiology, psychology, and child neurodevelopment. Check out this blog for more insights on neurology and related fields.


Monday, August 14, 2023

Dr. Curtis Cripe Reviews the Prosopagnosia Disorder

Dr. Curtis Cripe: Important Facts on Prosopanosia

Image source: Pexels.com

Dr. Curtis Cripe is a brain injury and child neurodevelopment expert who leads the research and development team of NTL Group. Part of the team's tasks is the study of rare neurological disorders such as prosopagnosia or face blindness. Today, Dr. Curtis Cripe discusses this disorder.

Prosopagnosia prevents a person from recognizing faces, even familiar ones. According to reports, 1 out of 50 people in the UK suffer from developmental prosopagnosia. While many people fail to recognize that they have this condition, there is more to prosopagnosia than just being unable to recognize someone's face.

There are two types of prosopagnosia. These are developmental and acquired.

Developmental prosopagnosia occurs without brain injury. It may be genetic, with the person recognizing the signs later. Some children with this condition develop coping strategies to recognize the people around them. Others even grow up without knowing that there is a name for their face blindness, Dr. Curtis Cripe explains.

Image source: sciencefriday.com

Acquired prosopagnosia, on the other hand, is when a person develops the condition after brain damage due to a stroke or a head injury. In this case, a person discerns that their mind cannot identify people like they used to.

Neurodevelopment experts have yet to find a cure for prosopagnosia. Many studies are trying to find the cause of this condition and what can be done to help patients improve facial recognition.

Those living with prosopagnosia can work with neuropsychologists and neurodevelopment experts to help them find ways to develop recognition strategies that will help them socialize. There are also resources and support groups that can help patients and their families understand their condition better, adds Dr. Curtis Cripe.

Dr. Curtis Cripe is a neuroengineer with a diverse multidisciplinary background, including software development, bioengineering, addiction recovery, psychophysiology, brain injury, and more. Visit this blog to read similar articles.

Monday, July 10, 2023

Dr. Curtis Cripe: How to Enhance Memory Capabilities

Dr. Curtis Cripe on How to Make Your Memory Stronger

Image source: Pexels.com



Our memory tends to weaken as we age, and often forget important information. However, stating that it happens just because of age is invalid. Fatigue and other cognitive problems might also contribute to forgetfulness. Neuro engineer Dr. Curtis Cripe of NTL Group comes to the rescue with effective ways of improving our memory capacity. He strives to explore innovative aspects of brain development and shares his expertise on strengthening memory. So, if you forget to remember the important stuff, take notes, as this is an informative and engaging read you won't want to miss.

First, you have to get enough sleep. When a person is sleep-deprived, brain function slows down, causing lapses in judgment and an inability to focus on tasks. A good night's rest is scientifically proven to ensure better brain function.

It is also not just enough for a person to sleep for six to eight hours. The quality of sleep also matters. During this time, the brain consolidates memories while the rest of the body recovers.

Second, your diet should be rich in Omega 3 fatty acids.

Image source: Pexels.com


Omega 3 fatty acids have long been known for their ability to promote a healthy heart, but recent research has shown that this powerful nutrient can also play a crucial role in developing a better brain. Our cognitive abilities can decline as we age, leaving us struggling with information processing and memory retention. However, by incorporating Omega 3s into our diets through supplements and foods, we can give our brains the boost they need to stave off these effects of aging. Whether you're an older adult looking to retain your mental acuity or a younger person looking to boost your brain, Omega 3 fatty acids are a powerful tool in the fight for better brain function.

Finally, Dr. Curtis Cripe suggests you get into regular daily exercise routines.

Neuroscientists like Dr. Curtis Cripe have seen a link between exercise and memory retention. Those at risk of developing neurological disorders and cognitive problems are advised to engage in regular aerobic exercise to stimulate their minds. Regardless of age, medical professionals and neuroscientists encourage individuals to have an active lifestyle for better health.

Dr. Curtis Cripe played an important role in developing the treatment programs used by NTL Group, which specializes in the treatment of learning disabilities. For more information about Dr. Cripe and his work, visit this page.

Tuesday, June 6, 2023

Dr. Curtis Cripe: How is Reality Constructed?

Dr. Curtis Cripe Explains the Perceptual Process



Image source: researchgate.net

Seeing a plant and recognizing it compared to other objects may seem simple, but it is a complex phenomenon that continues to fascinate scientists. Some experts in neuroscience believe that the brain is responsible for constructing our reality and that what we perceive as real is a type of "hallucination." However, according to Dr. Curtis Cripe, this hallucination is accurate thanks to input from our senses, particularly sight, and hearing. In other words, our brains can take in information from the environment around us and create a coherent image of our world. It's truly a remarkable feat that we often take for granted.

Perception begins with a distal stimulus – a physical object in the environment, for example, an orange. The sensory receptors receive information about the orange via different types of environmental energy, representing the distal stimulus. The nervous system transforms environmental and physical energy into electrical energy. For example, receptors in the retina transform the light from the object into electrical signals. These signals are then transmitted from one neuron to another and are processed, notes Dr. Curtis Cripe of NTL Group.

Image source: i.ytimg.com


From this, perception occurs. A split second after perception, recognition takes place. Finally, we place the perceived object in a category. For example, we perceived an orange, which is a fruit. The way we process incoming sensory information is called "bottom-up processing." In addition, our existing memories, knowledge, and assumptions can influence perception and recognition. Neuroscientists call this "top-down processing."


Our perception shapes our entire reality. Dr. Curtis Cripe explains that our brain constantly searches for the best interpretation of the stimuli. We use our past experiences to construct what we believe we see or hear. Our brain creates an accurate model of our environment, refined by sight and hearing. In other words, what we perceive as reality is how our brain interprets the world. Everything we experience is shaped by our perception, which is why it's so important that we understand how it works. By utilizing our past experiences, we can construct a cohesive understanding of the world around us. Whether looking at an object or hearing a sound, our perception plays a crucial role in shaping our reality.

Dr. Curtis Cripe serves as the director of NTL Group's research and development division. For more information, click on this link.

Dr. Curtis Cripe: How Food Sensitivities Impact Cognitive Function

The hidden effects of food allergies

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Food allergies are becoming more common. Within the United States, 10% of the population identifies with some type of food allergy including eggs, peanuts, dairy, or wheat.

In some cases, the symptoms of food allergies can be severe and life-threatening, while other people suffer mild symptoms like itching or swelling. According to Dr. Curtis Cripe, the effects of food allergies can also be hidden. It’s what experts call asymptomatic food sensitivities. You even be eating foods that are good for the brain like eggs or nuts without realizing that you have a sensitivity to those foods which are triggering your body’s natural immune response.

Child Development In addition to the physical symptoms of food allergies, the presence of these sensitivities present difficulties in the social and emotional development of children. Some of the more obvious concerns involve the stress it places on children when they have had severe allergic reactions and must avoid those dangerous foods. It can put a strain on social relationship as the children aren’t able to participate in some activities, such as trick-or-treating, or may experience bullying in regards to their food allergies.

Cognitive Symptoms Dr. Curtis Cripe is also concerned about the hidden effects food allergens can have on the brain. He pointed to a recent study involving the long-term consumption of allergens, which found that eating the identified foods led to brain inflammation and neuronal damage, even when there were no outward signs of an allergic response.

These are important findings when we consider the approved treatment of allergens in which patients are given small doses of the allergen to develop a tolerance. While this may reduce severe reactions, it appears that the brain continues to be impacted.

Image Credit: Gerd Altmann from Pixabay 

Even without physical symptoms of food allergies, these sensitivities can lead to emotional and behavioral problems such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder. From a cognitive perspective, food allergies can motor and learning deficits.

Treatment Dr. Curtis Cripe pointed out that when a person with food sensitivities eats those foods, it triggers an immune response. One of the common symptoms is brain fog, or that fuzzy feeling when you can’t quite think clearly. If this state of irritation to the brain persists over time, the brain establishes a new “set point” a this lower level of functioning.

Under the supervision of a physician or naturopath, patients may use a strict elimination diet to identify the problem foods. For more hidden sensitivities that are affecting the brain, the patient may need blood tests.

In addition to dietary adjustments, Dr. Curtis Cripe recommends targeted exercises to strengthen and optimize brain function as the body heals. With the NeuroCodex evaluation, Dr. Curtis Cripe is able to monitor when the brain has returned to its peak performance.

Dr. Curtis Cripe is the head of research and development at the NTL Group. He specializes in developing brain-based technologies for healing and repairing neurological dysfunctions. More on Dr. Cripe here.

Wednesday, May 17, 2023

Trauma and the Brain

 

How brain systems respond to traumatic events

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In most cases, people who experience a traumatic event are able to process the situation and move forward. Other times, the brain seems to work against us with symptoms of anxiety, hypervigilance, flashbacks, or insomnia after the event. These symptoms can persist for years, and sometimes for a lifetime.

Approximately 7.8% of the population will develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at some point in their lives. As a neuropsychologist, Dr. Curtis Cripe looks at symptoms of PTSD from the perspective of the way brain networks interact. With advances in neuroimaging techniques, researchers have been able to study and identify how the brain structures change with PTSD. Dr. Curtis Cripe pointed out that the three areas of the brain involved with PTSD include the prefrontal cortex, the amygdala, and the hippocampus. Based on neuroimaging studies, we can see that each of these brain regions are impacted in people experiencing PTSD. As these three key brain regions interact, the symptoms of PTSD develop.

Amygdala

PTSD is commonly linked to high activity in the amygdala. This is a structure in the brain that is involved with fear circuitry and the fight-flight-freeze response. In people experiencing symptoms of PTSD, Dr. Curtis Cripe noted that the amygdala goes into over-drive. It's as if this region gets stuck.

In people with PTSD, the amygdala shows a heightened, or exaggerated response to emotional input. Sometimes this may be a trauma-related stimulus, like the sound of fireworks for a combat veteran. Other times, the stimulus may be unrelated to the person's trauma experience. For people dealing with PTSD, they know the constant fear and hypervigilance that results from these exaggerated response in the amygdala.

Hippocampus

When looking further at brain imaging studies, Dr. Curtis Cripe sees reduced activity in the hippocampus. This is the region of the brain involved with placing context around fear conditioning, as well as creating memories of experiences and facts (explicit memory).

Following a traumatic event, long-term exposure to stress hormones causes cell damage in the hippocampus. As a result, the hippocampus loses volume and becomes smaller. This structural change in the brain is due to PTSD.

The hippocampus interacts directly with the amygdala to form emotional memories. As the amygdala becomes hyper-active, it exaggerates the fear response. The hippocampus becomes hypo-active, and fails to create context for emotional information. This imbalance creates an interaction between brain systems where symptoms of PTSD emerge.

Prefrontal Cortex

People who have been diagnosed with PTSD consistently show low activity in the prefrontal cortex. This brain region is involved in important cognitive functions. When looking at PTSD, the prefrontal cortex works to regulate and make sense of emotional information. This is the area of the brain that would process and extinguish learned fear conditioning.

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The amygdala is creating an exaggerated response to emotional triggers. It doesn't have the context and facts that the hippocampus would normally provide. At the same time, Dr. Curtis Cripe points out that the prefrontal cortex fails to moderate and extinguish unnecessary fear responses.

The Solution

Dr. Curtis Cripe points out that the solution is strengthening and rebalancing these key brain regions. Through targeted interventions, he is able to track progress and bring the brain back online to work in a more healthy way to respond appropriately to external input. As the brain reaches that balance, the amygdala and hippocampus are able to take in experiences and create meaningful context to understand emotional information. The prefrontal cortex is able to process those emotional memories and make decisions about when a response is no longer needed.

Dr. Curtis Cripe, Ph.D. is the director of research and development at NTL Group, Inc. F or more information on his neuroengineering approach to improving brain function with PTSD, click here.

Monday, May 15, 2023

Dr. Curtis Cripe Lists Neurodegenerative Diseases

Dr. Curtis Cripe: Brain and Nervous System Dangers

Image source: news.mit.edu 
NTL Group's Dr. Curtis Cripe has shared his insights and knowledge in science and research. He has given lectures, taught classes, and written about his work in hopes of letting readers everywhere know about our brains and beyond.

Dr. Curtis Cripe takes us on an informative journey into the world of neurodegenerative diseases. From Parkinson's disease to Alzheimer's and Huntington's, Dr. Curtis Cripe sheds light on these debilitating conditions and their effects on the brain and body. Along the way, he provides a wealth of knowledge, educating us on the science behind these diseases and the current treatments and research efforts to find a cure.

Neurodegenerative diseases are described as chronic progressive conditions that result in the deterioration and, ultimately, the death of nerve cells in the brain. They also affect the nerve cells in the other parts of the nervous system.

These conditions lead to declining cognitive function, mobility, and other abilities. Unfortunately, these diseases are incurable and often result in death.

Image source: medicalnewstoday.com

There are several neurodegenerative diseases. The most well-known ones are Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Huntington's disease are also examples of neurodegenerative diseases. That said, each type of neurodegenerative disease has unique symptoms with different progression paths.

As mentioned, Alzheimer's disease or Alzheimer's is the most common type of this disease. Millions of people around the world have Alzheimer's. It is also the leading cause of dementia. Parkinson's disease is the second most common, with about a million people in the U.S. alone affected by it. Parkinson's is also the leading cause of disability in older adults.

Dr. Curtis Cripe notes that treatments are available to help manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. While every person will require a tailored approach to treatment, it's comforting to know that medical institutions are constantly researching and developing new methods to help those afflicted. It's crucial to remember that even small steps towards management can make a difference in someone's quality of life.

Curtis Cripe, Ph.D., heads the research and development of neuroengineering services of NTL Group. For more blogs on related topics, click here.

Monday, April 10, 2023

Dr. Curtis Cripe: The Reticular System Report

Dr. Curtis Cripe Details the Brain's Reticular System

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According to Dr. Curtis Cripe of NTL Group, the reticular system of the brain is a network of interconnected neurons that stretches from the medulla oblongata to the thalamus. It regulates many vital functions. These include wakefulness, attention, and motor control.

The reticular system is divided into two main areas. The first area is the ascending reticular activating system or ARAS. The second area is the descending reticular inhibiting system or DIRS. The ARAS promotes wakefulness and alertness, while the DIRS regulates sleep and relaxation.


The reticular system plays a key role in the brain's reward system. Dr. Curtis Cripe explains that it is responsible for releasing dopamine. Dopamine is a known neurotransmitter that is connected to pleasure and motivation. The dopamine release in the reward system makes eating, sex, and exercise pleasurable.

Image source: jdmindcoach.com


Dopamine, the neurotransmitter that drives us to achieve our goals and rewards behavior with pleasure, is a key player in substance abuse. It explains why certain drugs like cocaine and heroin can produce euphoria by overstimulating dopamine circuits in the brain; however, these intense feelings come at an immense cost beyond just physical health.



The reticular system is also heavily involved in learning and memory. It is necessary for creating and forming new memories. It also helps with the consolidation of old ones.

This system is not without its issues, though. According to Dr. Curtis Cripe, common problems include sleep disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and addiction. Treatment for these conditions often aims to correct the underlying imbalance in the brain's neurotransmitters.

Specialists who research the reticular system are called neuroscientists. They use specialized tools and techniques to study the brain. These include positron emission tomography (PET) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Dr. Curtis Cripe adds that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is also used. NTL Group uses QEEG for evaluating the brain’s function under cognitive load.

Neuroscientists are constantly working to better understand the brain's many complex functions. By studying the reticular system, they hope to develop better treatments for conditions that affect the brain.

Learn more about NTL Group's research and development head Dr. Curtis Cripe and the work he does by clicking this link.

Monday, March 6, 2023

Dr. Curtis Cripe: Important Facts About Alzheimer's

Dr. Curtis Cripe Offers and Overview of Alzheimer's

Image source: news-medical.net 

Alzheimer's is a ravaging and progressive neurological disorder, slowly eroding an individual's ability to think, remember faces or words, and communicate effectively with those around them – often leaving loved ones floundering. Even though it is the most common form of dementia affecting millions worldwide today, there are still significant gaps in our understanding of how this tragic condition impacts individuals on multiple levels. Such knowledge could pave the way for us to develop better methods for mitigating its effects and improving the quality of life for countless people worldwide.

Dr. Curtis Cripe of NTL Group has devoted his professional career to helping those affected by Alzheimer's, noting several observations and working with supportive individuals and dedicated professionals in this field. His work is a testament to how much he cares for those with dementia-related conditions.

First, Dr. Curtis Cripe says that the reason for many misconceptions about Alzheimer's is the most inaccurate portrayal of Alzheimer's in pop culture and media.

Image source: connectsafely.org


Alzheimer's Disease has been portrayed in an overly romanticized light by the media, but there is much more to it than what is seen on television. Behind each diagnosis and story lies a unique struggle experienced by people with this condition and their caregivers. It's time we take a closer look at understanding and supporting those who battle Alzheimer's every day.

For a deeper understanding of Alzheimer's, Dr. Curtis Cripe suggests that people look away from pop culture and media. Instead, they should listen to healthcare professionals, friends, and family members of Alzheimer's patients.

Alzheimer's is an ever-advancing condition requiring ongoing readjustment for those at the forefront of its care. As it progresses, supporting a person with this neurodegenerative disorder requires more effort than many may expect; but what better reward could there be than becoming part of such an important journey? Dr. Curtis Cripe also points out that Alzheimer's goes beyond memory loss.

People with Alzheimer's also experience conditions ranging from impaired communication and mood swings to overall lethargy and altered behavior. These are extremely detrimental to an Alzheimer's patient's everyday life, so they need as much help as possible.

Dr. Curtis Cripe is the director of the NTL Group research and development team. For more information, click on this link.

Thursday, February 23, 2023

Dr. Curtis Cripe on Developmental Speech Delays

Dr. Curtis Cripe Talks About Developmental Speech Delays

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Speech delay can be a real challenge for children and their families, but understanding the possible causes is key. According to Dr. Curtis Cripe from NTL Group, it could stem from oral or hearing issues; or, in some cases, an autism spectrum disorder. Working with your child's healthcare provider early on should help identify any underlying factors affecting speech development.

Every parent has an incredibly powerful role in their child's communication development. Taking proactive steps like monitoring progress can ensure that children reach their full potential in speech.

Parents can play a major role in cultivating their child's speech development by creating an interactional atmosphere that encourages expression. From reading stories and playing music and videos to singing nursery rhymes or imitating animal sounds — there are countless creative ways for children to explore communication through sound. By manifesting these early experiences with the world of language, parents set toddlers up for successful future conversations.

Image source: psychlopaedia.org


Dr. Curtis Cripe advises that the key is patience to fostering language in children. Don't expect them to start talking immediately - give your child time, and don't be discouraged if they aren't repeating words or phrases after a few attempts. Instead of bombarding toddlers with lengthy conversations, keeping things simple can encourage learning – three to five-word responses are ideal for facilitating understanding.

Despite being nonverbal, children with speech delays can still understand and respond to their environment. According to Dr. Curtis Cripe, forcing a child into this situation might be too overwhelming – instead, try observing the subtle cues they give off through body language, so you don't miss out on any meaningful communication.

Parents who suspect their child may have a speech delay should consult with experts in the field, such as a Neurologist, a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP), or Otologist. These professionals will help pinpoint any underlying issues and develop strategies to overcome them.

Dr. Curtis Cripe of the NTL Group is well-versed in various disciplines, including neuroengineering and brain development. Read more of his insights and learn more about his professional and academic background by visiting his page on the NTL Group website.

Thursday, January 5, 2023

Dr. Curtis Cripe: Information on Tension Headaches

Dr. Curtis Cripe Discusses Tension Headaches and Its Treatment

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According to Dr. Curtis Cripe, the common headache has a name, and it is called tension headache.

Tension headaches are typically described as mild to moderate pain. They can be felt behind the eyes, head, and neck. Many patients often compare the pain to wearing a tight headband.

Today, Dr. Curtis Cripe explains more about tension headaches. He talks about possible causes, symptoms, and treatment.

One major factor that often comes out as a likely cause of tension headaches is muscle contractions in the head and neck regions. Other possible causes are stress and hectic activities. Dr. Curtis Cripe notes that even staring at a computer screen and driving for extended periods can cause tension headaches.

Image source: hearstapps.com


People who experience it usually feel dull, aching pain that pushes around the head like a tight band. They also mention a marked tenderness in the scalp, neck, and shoulder muscles.

Tension headache has two categories, notes Dr. Curtis Cripe. The first is "episodic tension headache." This occurs for less than 15 days a month for three months. The second is "chronic tension headache," which happens for 15 or more days a month for three months.

The following can be done to treat tension headaches, according to Dr. Curtis Cripe: Exercise for at least 30 minutes daily and sleep and wake at the same time each day. Also, Dr. Curtis Cripe mentions that it's important not to skip meals, especially breakfast. You should also rest in a quiet and dark room. Managing your stress with relaxation exercises and taking the prescribed medication can alleviate the pain, too.

Finally, Dr. Curtis Cripe mentions avoiding things that may trigger a tension headache, ranging from eating certain foods to alcohol to staying up late at night.

Dr. Curtis Cripe is head of research and development at the NTL Group, specializing in developing brain-based technology for healing and repairing neurological dysfunctions. He has published two peer-reviewed papers and wrote two book chapters on neurotherapy and neuroengineering. For more blogs like this, click here.