MUST READS

A February 18, 2019 Forbes article highlighted current efforts at the NIA to educate and promote participation in studies of Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias, aging, health and well-being of older people. The NIH Clinical Trials Finder helps qualified participants find research opportunities near them. According to the article, “As growing numbers of people live well into their 80s and 90s, age-related diseases and conditions—and the disability often associated with them—continue to be a major public health concern. For example, Alzheimer's disease, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes remain widespread among older Americans.”

HUMAN INTEREST

A February 18, 2019 Los Angeles Times travel article focused on best practices for traveling with someone with Alzheimer’s disease. Planning and preparation are key, according to Pam Montana, who has younger-onset AD but has continued traveling extensively post-diagnosis. “It’s using my voice and being empowered to get what I need. I have to be selfish, and it’s actually a little uncomfortable at times. I’ve always just gone with whatever is decided, but now I make intentional choices,” said Montana.

RESEARCH AND SCIENCE

A February 17, 2019 Medical News Today article explored the connection between type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease. Type 2 diabetes is a known AD/cognitive decline/dementia risk factor, and impaired insulin signaling in the brain may negatively impact cognition, mood and metabolism. According to Senior study author C. Ronald Kahn of Harvard Medical School, “With diabetes and obesity, there is resistance in these pathways and, therefore, we think that this could be an important factor as to why people with Alzheimer's disease and diabetes have a faster-accelerated course or have more Alzheimer's disease.”

SEX MATTERS

A February 19, 2019 The Observer (of Notre Dame & Saint Mary’s) Viewpoint article looked at both sex and gender differences in the development of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. According to the article, “There are significant sex and gender-specific risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease, for example, hormones, occupation and smoking. Not taking note of these would impede treatments and research. Thus, it is important to study biological, historical, social and cultural trends to determine whether or not there will be an impact on the future prevalence and incidence of Alzheimer’s disease.”

BRAIN HEALTH

A February 17, 2019 Alzheimer’s & Dementia Weekly article touted the memory enhancing, and other positive properties, of dark chocolate (at least 70 percent cacao). According to Principal Investigator of two related studies Dr. Lee S. Berk, “This is the first time that we have looked at the impact of large amounts of cacao in doses as small as a regular-sized chocolate bar in humans over short or long periods of time, and are encouraged by the findings. These studies show us that the higher the concentration of cacao, the more positive the impact on cognition, memory, mood, immunity and other beneficial effects.” 

REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

A February 18, 2019 Wane.com article spotlighted the world's largest puzzle, which is being constructed in downtown Fort Wayne, IN to raise money for Alzheimer’s disease. According to the article, “Last year on the longest day event which is Alzheimer's awareness day, June 21st, we started creating this puzzle which they say is the world's largest puzzle,” said Community Center manager Patti Davis. “It's great to work on it because it's good for your brain," said puzzle solver Deb Glasper.” All are invited to participate in its construction - get more info here.