February 11, 2014

Today's Top Alzheimer's News

Senator Bob Casey calls for national alert system for missing seniors, brain implants to restore memory loss, and the need to invest in biomedical research (read more).

Must reads

  • A February 10, 2014 Lehigh Valley article reported that "U.S. Sen. Bob Casey...pushed for passage of legislation that would create a nationwide Amber-Alert style system for missing seniors." According to the article, "The proposal would create a Silver Alert system that would bring federal coordination to state and local efforts to track down missing seniors. Casey was joined by seniors and advocates for older Pennsylvanians who discussed the challenges faced by someone dealing with a disease like Alzheimer's or dementia."
  • A February 10, 2014 Bloomberg News article (via Washington Post) reported on the use of brain implants to help restore memory loss in combat patients. According Andres Lozano, chairman of neurosurgery at the University of Toronto stated, "The way human memory works is one of the great unsolved mysteries...This has tremendous value from a basic science aspect. It may have huge implications for patients with disorders affecting memory, including those with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.”
  • A February 10, 2014 Huffington Post piece by Claire Pomeroy, President of the Albert and Mary Lasker Foundation, advocated for increased investment in US biomedical research. According to Pomeroy, "Research can thrive only with a national commitment to long-term adequate funding that transcends partisan politics and daily crises. The nation's dedication to biomedical research determines our ability to restore, protect and advance the U.S. as the home for scientific achievements that create hope and better quality of life. Elected representatives must support biomedical research; it is the best investment in the country's future."