MUST READS

A January 29, 2019 Genentech release reported that Roche halted two phase 3 Alzheimer’s disease trials of the anti-beta-amyloid molecule crenezumab after analysis found they were unlikely to hit primary endpoints. According to Sandra Horning, MD, “While the results with crenezumab are disappointing, they meaningfully contribute to our understanding of Alzheimer’s disease. We gratefully acknowledge the participants in the CREAD trials and the efforts of everyone involved in this important program. We remain dedicated to the Alzheimer’s community…” Also covered by Fierce Biotech.

BRAIN HEALTH

A January 28, 2019 JAMA Network editorial by Kristine Yaffe, MD looked to results of the Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial (SPRINT) Memory and Cognition in Decreased Hypertension (MIND) study, the first trial to demonstrate an effective strategy for prevention of age-related cognitive impairment. According to the editorial, “For older adults, almost all of whom have concern about being diagnosed with AD and related dementia, SPRINT MIND offers great hope. The study demonstrates that among those with hypertension, intensive SBP [systolic blood pressure] control can reduce the development of cognitive impairment. This approach should be studied with other vascular health interventions, such as physical activity and other promising approaches for prevention.”

HUMAN INTEREST

According to a January 28, 2019 Mirror article, British actress Dame Barbara Windsor's Alzheimer’s disease is so advanced that she now needs round-the-clock care. According to the article, “In helping to ease the symptoms of Alzheimer's, Scott [husband and caregiver] has increasingly turned to music therapy, saying that this has helped with Dame Barbara's memories. Scott said that they play songs from Barbara's career and this has brought recognition and warmth of love from the former EastEnders matriarch. Scott told the Sunday People that she shares her gratitude nightly for looking after her and that her sweet side" has come out.”

YOUTH FOCUS

A January 29, 2019 The Star article spotlighted the Timeless app, created by teen Emma Yang. Timeless, inspired by Yang’s grandmother who has AD, uses AI-powered facial recognition to help those with Alzheimer’s disease identify people in photos, remember who they are and stay connected with their families. “Technology has been able to empower kids from all walks of life to put their ideas into action. As long as you get out there and put yourself out there, tell people about your idea and… find out who’s on board and can get behind it, you’ll (eventually) find that team of people,” said Yang. 

PROFILES IN COURAGE

A January 23, 2019 Which Me Am I Today? blog post explored Wendy Mitchell’s personal dementia journey. “Dementia is very clever at giving us a new normality if we’re not careful. A relaxing, gentle doing nothing normal……and before we know it, dementia has taken hold, so I had to snap out of the haven of peace.” She chronicles adventures of traveling by train with dementia. “I had to rely on the fact that I had everything sorted…..had to trust myself, which is very difficult at times… I’m sure I’ve been on this train journey many times but the views never cease to make me smile.”

FEEL GOOD STORY OF THE DAY

A January 25, 2019 The Mail article spotlighted Wendy Gunning, collaborating with knitters and crocheters to make “twiddle” items for people with Alzheimer’s disease. Twiddle items include mats, muffs, blankets and wrist warmers, to help occupy restless hands. “It helps to keep them calm and it just gives them different feelings, like different wools and different textures, in a way to engage the senses,” said Gunning.