January 27, 2020

Today's Top Alzheimer's News

USA2 SPOTLIGHT

(ICYMI) Watch A-LIST researcher/investigator Terry Frangiosa on Help For Alzheimer’s Families chat, “Family Dynamics in Caregiving: How to Improve Communication & Make Decisions Together.” Frangiosa, a former caregiver and research investigator, discussed family dynamics in caregiving, including hiring in-home care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, potential sibling challenges, and improved communication and decision-making. A-LIST is an initiative of UsAgainstAlzheimer’s.

RESEARCH AND SCIENCE

A January 25, 2020 Sci Tech Daily article looked at the potential pros and cons of using microdoses of lithium to treat Alzheimer’s disease. A new study out of McGill University found in a rat model that low dosing via encapsulated lithium formulation halts signs of advanced Alzheimer’s pathology, such as amyloid plaques, and helps recover lost cognitive abilities. “While it is unlikely that any medication will revert the irreversible brain damage at the clinical stages of Alzheimer’s it is very likely that a treatment with microdoses of encapsulated lithium should have tangible beneficial effects at early, preclinical stages of the disease,” said study lead Dr. Claudio Cuello.

FEEL GOOD STORY OF THE DAY

(ICYMI) A January 20, 2020 Hello Care article spotlighted the story of Margaret Mackie and Jamie Lee Morley. Mackie, an 83-year old Northcare Suites Care Home (Glasgow) resident has dementia, yet she recorded Frank Sinatra’s ‘My Way’ with Morley, who is one of her carers. The song is climbing up the UK’s music charts, raising money for UK Alzheimer’s disease charities.

FAITH SPOTLIGHT

The Respite for All Foundation, through its Respite Volunteer Ministries, improves quality of life for people with dementia and their caregivers. The Foundation supports communities ministering to people with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias through education, funding and best practices.

EVENTS AND RESOURCES

Join the “Occupational Therapy and Social Work: Offering Community-Based Approaches to Support People Living with Dementia and their Caregivers” webinar. Learn about how occupational therapy, social work and community-based approaches can benefit people with dementia and their caregivers; and about LiveWell's project using evidence-based/informed occupational therapy interventions for people with dementia living alone, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and dementia, and distressing behaviors. Wednesday, February 12, 2020, 3-4:00pm (EST).