USA2 SPOTLIGHT

Join the Alzheimer’s of Central Alabama’s Annual Caregiver Conference in Birmingham, Alabama. UsAgainstAlzheimer’s advocate Don Wendorf, PsyD, former care partner to his mom, dad and late wife, will blend stories, music and memories to inspire empathic thinking about the challenges of dementia. October 18, 2019. Wendorf and wife, fellow UsA2 advocate Lynda Everman, are Senior Editors of “Dementia-Friendly Worship: a Multifaith Handbook for Chaplains, Clergy, and Faith Communities,” and co-wrote “Stolen Memories: an Alzheimer’s Stole Ministry and Tallit Initiative.” All proceeds from both books go directly to support the work of the FaithUnitedAgainstAlzheimer’s Coalition, a UsA2 network.

RESEARCH AND SCIENCE

A September 16, 2019 Medical Xpress article reported that a study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that people (in Ontario, Canada) who use the drug donepezil, to manage symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia, are twice as likely to be admitted to the hospital with a painful muscle condition than those who use other cholinesterase inhibitors. The condition, called rhabdomyolysis, is serious and can result in kidney disease. “The findings of this population-based cohort study support regulatory agency warnings about the risk of donepezil-induced rhabdomyolysis,” wrote Dr. Jamie Fleet of McMaster University.

MUST READS

According to a September 16, 2019 EurekAlert! news release, Tai-Yen Chen at the University of Houston will explore the link between Alzheimer’s disease and copper protein molecules, an essential brain cell nutrient, funded by a $1.9 million award from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences. Copper helps neurons communicate with each other.Heightened levels are found in the beta amyloid plaques of people with AD. Chen will examine the biological regulation of copper to identify potential causes of Alzheimer’s. “If we can figure out how copper regulation is different between normal and diseased cells, it will shed light on understanding the pathology of Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases,” said Chen.

YOUTH FOCUS

A September 12, 2019 Central Michigan Life article spotlighted Central Michigan University (CMU) sophomore Abby Meesseman, who is the President of AFA (Alzheimer's Foundation of America) at CMU. AFA provides support, resources and education about Alzheimer’s. As a nursing assistant at Henry Ford Macomb Hospital, Meesseman treats many people with AD. “Being in AFA and hearing speakers talk about how to work with people with Alzheimer’s and give simple tips on things you can do to help them be more comfortable has really helped me in my job,” said Meesseman.

EVENTS AND RESOURCES

Register for Dementia Action Alliance’s “Cognitive Wellness When Living with Dementia: What Works? A DAA Webinar with Dr. Green.” Dr. Cynthia R. Green will discuss the science behind brain health interventions for people with dementia, including proactive ways to maintain cognitive skills and promote overall well‐being. October 15, 2019 at 12:30pm (EST).