PURPLE PASSION 4 Alzheimer's

Alzheimer’s afflicts over five million Americans. Standard thinking says it can’t be cured, but one couple found out differently. Gailon Totheroh has their story.

http://www.cbn.com/media/player/index.aspx?s=/vod/GTO523v1_WS

New Extended-Release Form of Namenda Is Approved

2012-01-05T13:14:00.002-05:00

http://www.alzinfo.org/08/articles/new-extended-release-form-of-namenda-is-approved

F.D.A. Approves New Generic Form of Aricept...

2012-01-03T13:04:00.002-05:00

http://www.alzinfo.org/01/articles/drugs-and-treatment-3

Regular Exercise and Resistance Training Are Good for the Brain

2012-01-03T08:33:00.002-05:00

http://www.alzinfo.org/03/articles/prevention-and-wellness/prevention-and-wellness-4

Alzheimer’s Common in ‘Oldest Old’ Women...

2011-12-31T22:00:00.002-05:00

http://www.alzinfo.org/12/articles/diagnosis-and-causes/alzheimers-common-oldest-old-women

Walk to Keep the Memory Sharp

2011-12-31T21:59:00.002-05:00

http://www.alzinfo.org/12/articles/prevention-and-wellness/walk-memory-sharp

Brain Scans Lead to Earlier Alzheimer’s Diagnosis...

2011-12-31T21:58:00.000-05:00

http://www.alzinfo.org/05/articles/brain-scans-lead-earlier-alzheimers-diagnosis

Drumroll, Rimshot…very funny...

2011-12-21T10:51:00.002-05:00

Posted on July 25, 2011 by Emily Gillespie Clement

www.alzinfo.org/07/blogs/drumroll-rimshot

Insulin Squirt Helps People With Early Alzheimer’s...

2011-12-19T21:16:00.002-05:00

http://www.alzinfo.org/09/articles/prevention-and-wellness/insulin-squirt-helps-people-early-alzheimers

By alzinfo.org, The Alzheimer's Information Site. Reviewed by William J. Netzer, Ph.D., Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation at The Rockefeller University.

Memory Loss May Not Be Present in Early-Onset Alzheimer’.

2011-12-19T19:12:00.000-05:00

http://www.alzinfo.org/11/articles/diagnosis-and-causes/memory-loss-present-early-onset-alzheimers

By ALZinfo.org, The Alzheimer's Information Site. Reviewed by William J. Netzer, Ph.D., Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation at The Rockefeller University.

Fish Oil Supplements May Boost Brain Health...

2011-12-19T19:10:00.002-05:00

http://www.alzinfo.org/11/articles/drugs-and-treatment/fish-oil-supplements-boost-brain-health

By ALZinfo.org, The Alzheimer's Information Site. Reviewed by William J. Netzer, Ph.D., Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation at The Rockefeller University.

Studying Magnets to Aid the Brain...

2011-12-19T19:08:00.000-05:00

http://www.alzinfo.org/02/articles/studying-magnets-aid-brain

By ALZinfo.org, The Alzheimer's Information Site. Reviewed by William J. Netzer, Ph.D., Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation at The Rockefeller University.

Some Tips to Help Celebrate the Holidays...

2011-12-19T13:22:00.000-05:00

Posted on December 15, 2011 by Tom and Karen Brenner

http://www.alzinfo.org/12/blogs/tips-celebrate-holidays

I have Alzheimers, there is no cure, i am dying, FACT!!...

2011-12-19T13:17:00.000-05:00

Posted on October 24, 2011 by Norm McNamara

http://www.alzinfo.org/10/blogs/alzheimers-cure-dying-fact

AAN: IVIG Treatment Slows Alzheimer's Decline

2011-12-14T19:01:00.000-05:00

http://www.medpagetoday.com/MeetingCoverage/AAN/19540

By John Gever, Senior Editor, MedPage Today
Published: April 14, 2010
Reviewed by Dori F. Zaleznik, MD; Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston and
Dorothy Caputo, MA, RN, BC-ADM, CDE, Nurse Planner

Risk for Dementia Rises When Diabetes, Depression Meet

2011-12-14T13:00:00.001-05:00

Study: The good news is that lifestyle changes may lower your risk for all three conditions, experts say

http://consumer.healthday.com/Article.asp?AID=659545

By Alan Mozes
HealthDay Reporter

PURPLE PASSION 4 Alzheimer's iPhone case

2011-11-22T16:38:00.000-05:00

In Memory of Robert A. Albert, Sr., PURPLE PASSION 4 Alzheimer's Announces the Launch of the PP4Alz iPhone case designed by Herb Dickinson!! We are so excited about joining forces with Mr. Dickinson and redbubble.com in raising awareness and funds for Alzheimer's research and support by allowing customers and supporters to purchase this beautiful case and donate to the fight against Alzheimer's. My birthday wish is that we can completely end this horrible disease so not another person or their loved ones have to suffer through it. To purchase the iPhone case, please visit PP4Alz.org/products and click on the iPhone case to be directed to redbubble.com. Please remember that the next dollar we raise might be the ONE that finds a cure. Thank you for all the wonderful birthday wishes and blessings.

Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation receives coveted 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator

2011-11-07T14:49:00.000-05:00

http://www.alzinfo.org/11/about-fisher-center/fisher-center-alzheimers-research-foundation-receives-coveted-4-star-rating-charity-navigator

Walk to END Alzheimer's

2011-10-27T19:11:00.000-04:00

http://www.alz.org/walk/overview.asp?memory=in_the_news

Inside the Brain: An Interactive Tour

2011-10-25T13:09:00.000-04:00

http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_4719.asp?esrc=10242011

Fisher Center Foundation Making an Extraordinary Difference in Alzheimer's Research

2011-10-21T20:39:00.000-04:00

Cholesterol - Alzheimer's Connection

2011-07-26T17:37:00.007-04:00

Cholesterol - Alzheimer's Connection

Article from Healthmonitor
Vol. 9, No. 3 June/July 2011

Seth Rogen talks about his experience with Alzheimer’s

2011-05-31T13:55:00.000-04:00

Actor Seth Rogen is known for his film comedies, but Alzheimer’s disease is something he doesn’t take lightly.

http://edition.cnn.com/2011/HEALTH/04/27/seth.rogen.alzheimer/

Larry King Special looks into Alzheimer's Disease

2011-04-30T12:46:00.000-04:00

Hosted by Larry King, "Unthinkable: the Alzheimer's Epidemic," airing Sunday, May 1, at 8 p.m. EDT, will discuss Alzheimer's disease, who gets it and why, and the race to find effective treatments and a possible cure. King, in his first CNN special since ending his long-running interview show, will be joined by California's former First Lady and Alzheimer's activist Maria Shriver, Alzheimer's Association Champions actor Seth Rogen and football star Terrell Owens and others touched by the disease. CNN chief medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta will also explain how Alzheimer's disease affects the brain.

http://edition.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2011/larryking/?hpt=tv

Alzheimer's Association CEO featured on CNN's In The Arena Blog today

2011-04-30T12:43:00.000-04:00

Alzheimer’s Association CEO Harry Johns answers today’s Six Questions on CNN’s In the Arena Blog in anticipation of the first Larry King special about Alzheimer’s disease.

http://edition.cnn.com/video/#/video/bestoftv/2011/04/28/lk.johns.alzheemers.cnn?iref=allsearch

Guidelines Allow Earlier Definition of Alzheimer’s

2011-04-30T12:36:00.000-04:00

In a landmark for the field, new criteria and guidelines for the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease have been published — for the first time in 27 years — by three expert workgroups spearheaded by the Alzheimer’s Association and the National Institute on Aging (NIA) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The Alzheimer’s Association believes this moves us significantly closer to our goal of eventually detecting and treating Alzheimer’s before people experience the disease’s devastating symptoms.

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/19/health/19alzheimer.html?_r=1

Drug Memantine Ineffective for Mild Alzheimer's, Study Finds

2011-04-30T12:34:00.000-04:00

Memantine (Namenda), a drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat moderate-to-severe Alzheimer’s, appears to be ineffective in the mild stages of the disease, a new study shows. Despite its FDA indication, memantine is often used, in combination with cholinesterase inhibitors, to treat people with mild Alzheimer’s. The authors of the new study say this strategy may need re-examination.

http://consumer.healthday.com/Article.asp?AID=651815

Vast Gene Study Yields Insights on Alzheimer’s

2011-04-30T12:32:00.000-04:00

Two very large studies have identified five additional genes linked to Alzheimer’s, doubling the number of genes believed to contribute to the disease. The studies also confirmed the previous Alzheimer’s genes, making 10 genes associated with Alzheimer’s in the elderly. While the new genes are clearly linked to Alzheimer’s, each only slightly increases a person’s risk. The genetic discoveries were a result of work done in part by the International Genomics of Alzheimer’s Project (IGAP), which is supported by the Alzheimer’s Association.

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/04/health/04alzheimer.html?_r=2

The Alzheimer's Association ~ Green-Field Library

2011-04-27T18:37:00.000-04:00

The Alzheimer's Association Green-Field library is the nation's largest library and resource center devoted to increasing knowledge about Alzheimer's. Our expert library staff fulfills thousands of inquiries each year.

What is your Alzheimer's IQ?

Alzheimer's Association Virtual Library

http://www.alz.org/library/index.asp

Alzheimer's Association ~ Walk to End Alzheimer's Viral Recruitment Video

2011-04-27T18:22:00.000-04:00

Walk to End Alzheimer's

http://media.causes.com/1046162?m=ef65e483

2011 Alzheimer's Association - Facts and Figures

2011-03-17T15:53:00.000-04:00

Please Take the Time to READ!

http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_facts_and_figures.asp

Cynthia Griner

Mother's Alzheimer's Disease May Boost Your Risk

2011-03-07T20:15:00.000-05:00

Mother's Alzheimer's Disease May Boost Your Risk

Study: People With Maternal History Had Twice the Brain Shrinkage as Those with No History

http://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/news/20110228/mothers-alzheimers-disease-may-boost-your-risk

Mrs. North Carolina International 2010
Cynthia Griner

High Cholesterol, Hypertension May Harm Memory in Middle Age

2011-03-07T20:14:00.000-05:00

High Cholesterol, Hypertension May Harm Memory in Middle Age

Study finds link between cardiovascular disease and lower scores on mental skills tests

http://consumer.healthday.com/Article.asp?AID=650108

Mrs. North Carolina International 2010
Cynthia Griner

Brisk Walks May Boost Memory in Older Adults

2011-03-07T20:12:00.000-05:00

Brisk Walks May Boost Memory in Older Adults

After one year of exercise, hippocampus region was bigger, study finds

http://consumer.healthday.com/Article.asp?AID=649420

Mrs. North Carolina International 2010
Cynthia Griner

Brain microbleeds provide clue for Alzheimer's origins

2011-03-07T20:10:00.000-05:00

Brain microbleeds provide clue for Alzheimer's origins

Blood vessel damage linked with plaque buildup may cause disease, studies suggest

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/41413221/ns/health-alzheimers_disease

Mrs. North Carolina International 2010
Cynthia Griner

Mrs. North Carolina International spends a momentous Valentines Day Judging the Queen of Hearts Pageant and Dinner with Mr. North Carolina International at Cafe Monte

2011-03-05T22:17:00.000-05:00

http://mncips.blogspot.com/2011/03/mrs-north-carolina-international-spends.html

Mrs. North Carolina International 2010
Cynthia Griner

PURPLE PASSION 4 Alzheimer's is an approved non-profit for belk Charity Day Sale

2011-02-17T15:57:00.000-05:00

http://mncips.blogspot.com/2011/02/purple-passion-4-alzheimers-is-approved.html

Mrs. North Carolina International 2010
Cynthia Griner

Fisher Scientists Discover Protein that Fuels Alzheimer’s Disease

2011-02-01T18:35:00.000-05:00

Fisher Center scientists have published a new finding that is being hailed as a potential paradigm shift in how researchers around the world will fight Alzheimer’s disease. They have discovered a protein that is centrally involved in creating beta-amyloid. An over abundance of beta-amyloid kills brain cells and creates the devastating symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.

“Alzheimer’s disease is a devastating disorder for which there are no satisfactory treatments. Our findings reveal that gamma-secretase activating protein is a potential target for a new class of anti-amyloid therapies,” says Dr. Greengard.

The finding, published at 1pm, September 1, 2010, in Nature online is titled, “Gamma-secretase Activating Protein is a Therapeutic Target for Alzheimer’s Disease.”

http://www.alzinfo.org/paul-greengard/breakthrough-finding?mtc=bt_social

Alzheimer's Epidemic to escalate as Baby Boomer's turn 65

2011-02-01T18:33:00.000-05:00

This year, the first wave of baby boomers turns 65 – the age when the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease increases significantly. Our new report, “Generation Alzheimer's: The Defining Disease of the Baby Boomers,” sheds light on a crisis that is no longer emerging – but here. Get the report for free.

The report highlights the tidal wave about to hit the baby boomers. For example, you may be surprised to learn that many baby boomers will spend their retirement years either with Alzheimer's or caring for someone who has it:

An estimated 10 million baby boomers will develop Alzheimer's

Alzheimer's is the only top 10 cause of death with no way to prevent, cure or even slow the progression of the disease

One out of eight baby boomers will either die with or from Alzheimer's making it the defining disease of the baby boomer generation

A devastating and heartbreaking disease for families, Alzheimer's also levies a staggering economic burden on the nation:

In 2010, Alzheimer's and other dementias cost Americans $172 billion

Between 2010 and 2050, the costs to Medicare of caring for someone with Alzheimer's will increase over 600 percent

Out-of-pocket costs to families will grow more than 400 percent during the same time

Federal spending does not measure up

The National Institutes of Health spends more than $6 billion a year on cancer research, over $4 billion on heart disease and more than $3 billion on HIV/AIDS research. But it spends only $480 million on Alzheimer research – and deaths from this disease are soaring.

There is great promise in Alzheimer research and a focused commitment from the nation's leaders could make the difference in solving the crisis. Please get the “Generation Alzheimer's” report to learn more about what can be done to conquer this devastating disease.

With sincerest thanks,

Robert Beatty
National Director

Generation Alzheimer's: the Defining Disease of the Baby Boomers

2011-02-01T18:27:00.002-05:00

This year, the first baby boomers turn 65. While Alzheimer’s is not normal aging, age is the greatest risk factor for the disease. This report conveys the burden of Alzheimer's and dementia on individuals, families, government and the nation's healthcare system.

Get the report at:

http://alz.org/boomers/

The passing of Sargent Shriver

2011-02-01T18:22:00.000-05:00

The nation is mourning the passing of Sargent Shriver.

Few people have had the impact on our nation that Mr. Shriver did. His unwavering dedication to the excellence and the ideal of public service laid a groundwork that Americans continue to follow to this day.

A veteran of the United States Navy and a recipient of the Purple Heart, Mr. Shriver leaves an unmatched legacy of leadership through the founding of organizations and programs such as Special Olympics, Peace Corps, Head Start and Job Corps.

In 2003, Shriver's remarkable enthusiasm for tackling difficult issues was exhibited yet again. Just 10 days before his 88th birthday, as he retired from his post as chairman of the Special Olympics, he bravely disclosed his diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease.

Mr. Shriver, his wife Eunice and their children and grandchildren immediately recognized the need for more Alzheimer's disease awareness. They became active in Alzheimer's Association activities.

In 2004, Mr. and Mrs. Shriver founded the Sargent and Eunice Shriver Profiles in Dignity Award, an honor presented annually at the Alzheimer's Association National Gala. The Shriver family participates in presenting the award, which recognizes those whose actions promote a greater understanding of Alzheimer's.

In addition, Mr. Shriver's daughter, award-winning journalist and former First Lady of California Maria Shriver, has worked to educate people about Alzheimer's, first as the author of the children's book What's Happening to Grandpa, then as an executive producer of the award-winning documentary series HBO's "The Alzheimer's Project" and most recently with her release of The Shriver Report: A Women's Nation Takes on Alzheimer's in partnership with the Alzheimer's Association.

The Shriver family continues to raise awareness about Alzheimer's by contributing to an increased dialogue about the disease among Americans and by encouraging the government to increase their focus on Alzheimer's disease, including vocal support for the National Alzheimer's Project Act, an Alzheimer's Association-supported landmark act signed into law by President Obama in early January.

It is in the same spirit of compassion, generosity and steadfast dedication to public service embodied by Mr. Shriver that the Alzheimer's Association strives to help all Americans affected by Alzheimer's. As the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research, the Association provides individuals and families with information and resources to cope with Alzheimer's disease while supporting significant exploration of the brain to identify Alzheimer's as early as possible. Ultimately, the Association's goal is to slow or halt the progression of the disease and eradicate Alzheimer's.

To view a statement from the Shriver Family, please visit www.SargentShriver.org.

NAPA Becomes Law

2011-01-05T14:04:00.000-05:00

Following the unanimous approval of Congress earlier this month, and the thousands of e-mails and messages you and other advocates sent to the White House last week, I'm pleased to share that today President Obama signed the National Alzheimer's Project Act (NAPA) into law. Once implemented, NAPA will ensure our nation has what Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius calls an "aggressive and coordinated national strategy" to confront the present and rapidly escalating Alzheimer crisis.

Today is a day to celebrate. This is a victory for the 5.3 million people who live with Alzheimer's in this country and the nearly 11 million caregivers. It is a victory for you and more than 300,000 other advocates who stood up and demanded that our nation's leaders create a plan for combating this disease. The journey to take NAPA from concept to law of the land is a victory for all of us.

Tomorrow we will return to the hard but rewarding work that lies ahead. NAPA is a milestone and a very important step forward, but it is not the destination. Our destination is a world without Alzheimer's and we can only arrive there through therapies that stop this disease and improved care and support for those contending with it. Rest assured that we will work tirelessly to maintain the momentum evident today. We will work to ensure NAPA is implemented effectively so that it lives up to its promise, and we will work to advance our other legislative priorities for 2011, including a major, immediate increase in research funding.

As you know, there is no time to waste.

Please continue to stand with us in the fight against Alzheimer's. We can't succeed without you. And please ask others to join us in this effort. We'll need to call on every available voice to succeed.

http://www.alz.org/join_the_cause_21243.asp

Again, congratulations and thank you.
Sincerely,

Harry Johns
President and CEO
Alzheimer's Association

My Feature Page in the 2010 Holiday Issue of Gladys Magazine as one of their Most Inspiring People!

2011-01-05T14:01:00.003-05:00

http://mncips.blogspot.com/2011/01/mrs-north-carolina-international.html

House of Representatives approves National Alzheimer's Project Act

2010-12-20T13:56:00.000-05:00

The U.S. House of Representatives has overwhelmingly passed the National Alzheimer's Project Act (NAPA). This historic legislation is now on its way to President Obama for his signature. Passage of NAPA is a hard-earned win for the hundreds of thousands of Alzheimer advocates across the nation. With your help, the Alzheimer's Association has made NAPA a top congressional priority — and a significant first step in ending the Alzheimer crisis.

Send an e-mail to President Obama urging him to sign NAPA

http://www.kintera.org/siteapps/advocacy/ActionItem.aspx?c=mmKXLbP8E&b=6452651

Insights Give Hope for New Attack on Alzheimer’s

2010-12-20T13:50:00.002-05:00

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/14/health/14alzheimers.html?_r=1&hpw

For Edge on Alzheimer’s, Testing Early Treatments

2010-12-20T13:46:00.000-05:00

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/09/health/09alzheimers.html?_r=1&partner=rss&emc=rss

Paul Greengard, Ph.D.

2010-11-08T14:02:00.000-05:00

November 8th Report: Please Read......

http://www.rockefeller.edu/research/faculty/abstract.php?id=53

Omega-3 pills fail to work in Alzheimer's patients

2010-11-08T13:58:00.002-05:00

Newly published results of a clinical study using DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid, to treat mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s showed no slowing of cognitive or functional decline, nor was there any change in the rate of brain atrophy over 18 months. DHA occurs naturally in the brain and is found in reduced amounts in people with Alzheimer's. Previous research had suggested that mental decline could be slowed or prevented by eating fish or taking supplements such as fish oil pills.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/11/02/AR2010110202254.html?nav=hcmoduletmv

Study: Alzheimer's risk spikes 157% with heavy smoking

2010-11-08T13:55:00.001-05:00

Heavy smoking in midlife may more than double a person's odds of developing Alzheimer's disease, a new study reports. Researchers say the study is the first to examine the long-term consequences of heavy smoking on Alzheimer's and vascular dementia.

http://www.usatoday.com/yourlife/health/medical/alzheimers/2010-10-26-smokingAlz26_ST_N.htm

Proteins Found In Spinal Fluid May be an Early Indicator of Alzheimer's Disease

2010-10-05T12:14:00.001-04:00

In a newly published research study, scientists identified a "signature" combination of amyloid and tau of proteins in cerebrospinal fluid that may be characteristic of Alzheimer's disease, and that they also found in most of the people in the study who had mild cognitive impairment, a condition that often precedes Alzheimer's. They also found it in nearly 40 percent of cognitively normal people in the study. This supports the idea that we may in the future be able to detect brain changes related to Alzheimer's before we see outward symptoms, taking us a step closer to early detection and treatment.

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2010/08/09/eveningnews/main6757986.shtml?tag=cbsnewsTwoColUpperPromoArea

Alzheimer's Disease is the Sixth Leading Cause of Death in the United States

2010-10-01T10:55:00.000-04:00

Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) National Center for Health Statistics. The CDC estimates that 74,632 Americans died of Alzheimer’s disease in 2007.

Dr. Paul Greengard, Karolinska Institutet’s Bicentennial Gold Medal Recipient

2010-09-23T14:31:00.003-04:00

Dr. Paul Greengard, a Nobel Prize-winning neurobiologist and director of the Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Disease Research at The Rockefeller University, will receive the Karolinska Institutet’s Bicentennial Gold Medal on September 23^rd, 2010.

To read Full Article click on link below:
http://www.alzinfo.org/09/articles/karolinska-institutets-bicentennial-gold-medal-recipient-dr-paul-greengard

Mr. and Mrs. North Carolina International ~ PP4Alz Fundraiser at Tasty Yo

2010-09-23T14:28:00.000-04:00

http://mncips.blogspot.com/2010/09/mr-and-mrs-north-carolina-international.html

World Alzheimer Report 2010: The Global Economic Impact of Dementia

2010-09-23T14:23:00.000-04:00

On World Alzheimer's Day 2010, Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI) released a new report highlighting the soaring cost of dementia and the need for action by policy makers and governments across the globe. World Alzheimer Report 2010 is a culmination of the most comprehensive, current data. Findings include:

Dementia is significantly affecting every health and social care system in the world.
Dementia care costs around 1 percent of the world’s gross domestic product (GDP).
If dementia care were a country, it would be the world’s 18th largest economy (ranking between Turkey and Indonesia).
By 2030, worldwide societal costs will increase by 85 percent (a very conservative estimate considering only increases in the number of people with dementia).

To view Full Report click on link below:
http://www.alz.org/news_and_events_world_alzheimers_day.asp#Report

Finding Suggests New Aim for Alzheimer’s Drugs

2010-09-02T16:46:00.000-04:00

In a year when news about Alzheimer’s disease seems to whipsaw between encouraging and disheartening, a new discovery by an 84-year-old scientist has illuminated a new direction.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/02/health/research/02alzheimer.html?_r=2

Major breakthrough in Alzheimer Research

2010-09-01T16:02:00.000-04:00

Major breakthrough in Alzheimer Research

Fisher Scientists Discover Protein that Fuels Alzheimer’s Disease, Promising New Treatments Expected

Fisher Center scientists have published a new finding that is being hailed as a potential paradigm shift in how researchers around the world will fight Alzheimer’s disease. They have discovered a protein that is centrally involved in creating beta-amyloid. An over abundance of beta-amyloid kills brain cells and creates the devastating symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.

“Alzheimer’s disease is a devastating disorder for which there are no satisfactory treatments. Our findings reveal that gamma-secretase activating protein is a potential target for a new class of anti-amyloid therapies,” says Dr. Greengard.

The finding, published at 1pm, September 1, 2010, in Nature online is titled, “Gamma-secretase Activating Protein is a Therapeutic Target for Alzheimer’s Disease.”

http://www.alzinfo.org/paul-greengard/breakthrough-finding?mtc=bt_social

Mott The Hoople Star Diagnosed With Alzheimer's

2010-09-01T15:53:00.000-04:00

MOTT THE HOOPLE star DALE GRIFFIN has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease

http://www.contactmusic.com/news.nsf/story/mott-the-hoople-star-diagnosed-with-alzheimers_1156297

Trying Improv as Therapy for Those With Memory Loss

2010-09-01T15:48:00.001-04:00

Program uses improvisation for people with Alzheimer's

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/08/health/08cncalzheimers.html?_r=1

Testing For Alzheimer's, Before It's Too Late

2010-09-01T15:46:00.000-04:00

Researchers Find That Certain Proteins Found in the Spinal Cord Are a Likely Indicator of the Disease

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2010/08/09/eveningnews/main6757986.shtml?tag=cbsnewsTwoColUpperPromoArea

Higher Education Level May Help Brain Cope With Dementia

2010-09-01T15:42:00.000-04:00

Physical changes occur in all aging brains, but more schooling seems to delay symptoms, study found

http://consumer.healthday.com/Article.asp?AID=641479

Charlotte Fundraiser at Tasty Yo

2010-09-01T15:40:00.001-04:00

Thank you to Tasty Yo for hosting a PP4Alz Fundraiser!

Tasty Yo

http://www.tasty-yo.com/

Early Detection, Diagnosis & Care Management for People with Dementia May Reduce Healthcare Costs

2010-08-19T11:56:00.000-04:00

Honolulu, Hawaii; July 14, 2010 – Early detection, diagnosis and care management for people newly diagnosed with cognitive impairment and dementia reduces outpatient costs by almost 30 percent, according to new research reported today at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference on Alzheimer's Disease 2010 (AAICAD 2010) in Honolulu.

Dementia is loss of memory and other mental abilities severe enough to interfere with daily life. According to the Alzheimer's Association, dementia is a common, costly, and often unrecognized problem in older adults. In order to provide better medical care and outcomes for people with Alzheimer's and other dementias, the conditions must first be detected and diagnosed, and needed care management must be provided.

"Research suggests that when the family of someone who is officially diagnosed with Alzheimer's becomes educated about the disease, and they work together with medical professionals on a care plan, it can reduce the patient's difficult behavioral and psychiatric symptoms," said Maria Carrillo, PhD, Senior Director of Medical and Scientific Relations at the Alzheimer's Association. "It can also lower the family caregiver's anxiety, depression and stress."

Generally, care management in Alzheimer's provides assistance for people with the disease and their families in finding resources, making decisions, and managing stress. For example, a care manager can help families with decisions about in-home health services, or long-term care whether at home or in a nursing facility.

"We see in this study's findings that early diagnosis and case management in dementia may also significantly lower healthcare costs. This could have a reverberating positive impact throughout the entire healthcare system," Carrillo said.

Demonstration Project Shows Early Diagnosis and Care Management Can Lower Costs
The Dementia Demonstration Project (DDP) was an interdisciplinary effort led by the Geriatric Research, Education and Clinic Center at the Minneapolis Veterans (VA) Medical Center. Seven VA Medical Centers took part in the project, which was created to increase detection and diagnosis of dementia in primary care and provide information, support, and care coordination for veterans with newly diagnosed dementia. An Advanced Practice Registered Nurse trained in dementia – the Dementia Care Coordinator – led a dementia care team that became part of a primary care clinic in each of the seven VA Medical Centers participating in the project.

The DDP added a brief, three-item memory test to regularly scheduled primary care visits for veterans age 70 and older without a diagnosis of Alzheimer's or another dementia. Among the 8,278 veterans who received the memory test, 26 percent failed. Thirty-four percent of those who failed the test returned for a comprehensive evaluation; 95 percent of that group were diagnosed with cognitive impairment, including 76 percent with dementia.

In the DDP clinics, following evaluation, the dementia care team met with the patient and family to review the results, discuss the diagnosis, and outline treatment recommendations. Interventions were targeted to the severity of dementia and the specific needs of the patient and their caregivers. Informational material, assistance in identifying needed services, and direct support and training from team members was provided, as needed.

Healthcare costs data for one year before and after diagnosis were available for 347 DDP patients and 1,260 patients from non-DDP clinics in the same VA Medical Centers.

Veterans diagnosed in the DDP clinics saw their average outpatient healthcare costs decline by about 29 percent (-$1,991) in the year after diagnosis of cognitive impairment compared with the year before diagnosis.

Veterans diagnosed in the non-DDP clinics also saw declines in average outpatient healthcare costs, but not as much (-$406).

"In our study, the cost decreases were more dramatic in patients who were identified through cognitive evaluation and who subsequently had case management available by a dementia care team," said J. Riley McCarten, MD, the project's lead physician. He added that the cost of the DDP intervention to the VA was captured in the patient care costs reported.

"The most important goals of the program were making sure that all family members understood the disease and were on the same page, that patients remained physically active and socially engaged, and that caregivers had the support they needed," McCarten said.

About AAICAD

The Alzheimer's Association International Conference on Alzheimer's Disease (AAICAD) is the world's largest conference of it's kind, bringing together researchers from around the world to report and discuss groundbreaking research and information on the cause, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. As a part of the Alzheimer's Association's research program, AAICAD serves as a catalyst for generating new knowledge about dementia and fostering a vital, collegial research community.

About the Alzheimer's Association

The Alzheimer's Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research, to provide and enhance care and support for all affected, and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's. Visit www.alz.org or call 800-272-3900.

Study: Exercise, tea and vitamin D to ward off Dementia

2010-08-19T11:42:00.000-04:00

http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2010-07-12-alzheimerslifestyle12_ST_N.htm

Three Strategies for Tackling Alzheimer’s

2010-08-19T11:37:00.001-04:00

http://www.cnbc.com/id/37685905

Swedish princess has Alzheimer’s

2010-08-19T11:24:00.000-04:00

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/37490012/ns/today-today_people/

Alzheimer's disease to cost United States $20 trillion dollars over next 40 years.

2010-08-19T11:16:00.000-04:00

From 2010 to 2050, the total costs of care for Americans age 65 and older with Alzheimer’s disease will increase five-fold, from $172 billion to $1.08 trillion per year. These dollar amounts represent the direct costs of care to all payers, including Medicare, Medicaid, and out-of-pocket costs to people with the conditions and their families, and costs to other payers (such as private insurance, HMOs and other managed care organizations, and uncompensated care).

Support the National Alzheimer's Project Act (NAPA)
By 2050 nearly 16 million Americans will have Alzheimer’s, yet there is no national plan to deal with this looming crisis. The National Alzheimer’s Project Act (NAPA) would establish an inter-agency advisory council to address the government’s efforts on Alzheimer research, care, institutional services, and home- and community-based programs.

Find out if your member of Congress is a co-sponsor of NAPA. If not, ask your member of Congress to act now and support NAPA (S. 3036 / H.R. 4689).

Preparing for the "Silver Tsunami" - State Government Alzheimer's Disease Plans

2010-07-10T08:55:00.000-04:00

Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States affecting over 5 million lives. According to 2010 Alzheimer's Disease Facts and Figures, from 2000-2006 the number of Alzheimer deaths increased 46 percent, while the number of deaths due to stroke, heart disease, HIV/AIDS, and breast cancer decreased. Without a significant medical breakthrough, Alzheimer’s is likely to remain a leading cause of death for an aging baby boom generation, placing an enormous strain on families and state budgets.

Without a plan to address the rapid growth of Alzheimer cases, state governments will be left unprepared to meet the health, social service, long-term care, public safety, transportation, and workforce needs of this population. A comprehensive state plan provides the mechanism to consider all of these issues collectively. The process involves bringing to the table such parties as: state agencies, legislators, residential and community care providers, professional and family caregivers, and persons with Alzheimer’s disease.

Since 2007, twelve states have released state plans and are working to implement their recommendations. Eighteen additional states are in the process of developing a state plan. Join the national movement and ensure your state is ready for the impending “silver tsunami.”

Also as states struggle to balance unprecedented budget deficits, the Alzheimer's Association sent a letter in support of extending the enhanced FMAP rate to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. Without this money, we know states will have to make deeper cuts to the services and supports important to persons with Alzheimer's disease and their families.

For information on what your state is doing, please contact your local Alzheimer’s Association Chapter or me.

Jenn Holcomb
Senior State Policy Specialist
Alzheimer's Association
1319 F Street NW, Suite 500
Washington DC 20004
Phone: 202.638.8668

Email: jennifer.holcomb@alz.org

Mrs. North Carolina International and her son Grayson visit The Ivey

2010-07-10T08:21:00.001-04:00

Some of The Ivey staff ~Victoria, Kelly, June, Me, Grayson, Cindy

http://mncips.blogspot.com/2010/07/mrs-north-carolina-international-and.html

Mrs. North Carolina International
Cynthia Griner

Poetry project helps Alzheimer's patients reconnect with past, present

2010-07-08T07:47:00.000-04:00

July 05, 2010

By Kate Santich Orlando Sentinel

As audiences go, Alzheimer's patients are a tough group. Some stare into space or drift off to sleep. Others have trouble sitting still — and tend to get up and wander off if they're bored. Many forget why they came or who is performing.

So the notion of capturing their attention with a poetry reading might seem absurd.

But in a handful of adult day-care programs and memory clinics in Central Florida, poetry readings have not only become a big hit, but the focus of a research project to measure what, if any, lasting impact the poetry provokes.

"To say that it is an amazing experience won't do it justice," says Melixa Carbonell, a board member and volunteer with Easter Seals Florida, one of four local nonprofit agencies involved in the research. "Even our [late] stage patients sat for an hour, captivated and reciting poetry."

The Alzheimer's Poetry Project, founded by New York poet Gary Glazner, is not built on the traditional, stand-at-the-podium-and-read poetry recital. Rather, it uses the simple rhymes typically learned in childhood or whimsical works created on the spot with audience participation. The facilitator moves among the seniors, holding their hands, touching their shoulders, gently prodding them to share their thoughts, reawakening long-ago memories.

"There was a guy in [one] group, his head was down, he wasn't participating, and I said the Longfellow poem, 'I shot an arrow in the air…' " Glazner says, recalling the initial workshop that spawned the project. "And his eyes suddenly popped open, and he said, 'It fell to earth, I know not where.' In that instant, he was back with us and was able to participate. It was very powerful."

Since 2004, Glazner has taught the poetry-project techniques to more than 800 health-care workers and family caregivers across the country, and it is endorsed by the National Endowment for the Arts. But until now, the research has been limited to immediate impact.

Studies show, for instance, that listening to poetry can lower heart rate and other indicators of stress, and that using words in new and creative ways sparks dramatic reactions in the brain's pathways.

But watch a session of the Alzheimer's Poetry Project, which began last month in Central Florida, and you won't need a scientist to tell you that art can transform mood and behavior.

Experts Optimistic About Solving Puzzle of Alzheimer's

2010-07-08T07:38:00.000-04:00

WEDNESDAY, June 30 (HealthDay News) -- Research into Alzheimer's disease has reached a point of significant potential, even as the disease's looming impact on society grows more and more dire, experts say.

http://consumer.healthday.com/Article.asp?AID=636314

A Decade Of Alzheimer's Devastating Impact

2010-07-08T07:36:00.000-04:00

In 1999, Tom DeBaggio was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's disease. He was 57. Soon after the diagnosis, he began talking with NPR about his illness. He wanted to document his decline, to break through what he called the "shame and silence" of Alzheimer's.

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=127857149

Scientists Spot More Genes Related to Alzheimer's

2010-07-08T07:31:00.000-04:00

MONDAY, June 14 (HealthDay News) -- Researchers report that they have spotted two new regions of the human genome that may be related to the development of Alzheimer's disease.

http://consumer.healthday.com/Article.asp?AID=640111

Jan's Story: Love and Early-Onset Alzheimer's

2010-07-08T07:25:00.000-04:00

In the 1980s, Jan Chorlton was a promising television reporter. She went on to work for CNN, ABC, even "CBS Sunday Morning."

She was lively, daring, one of those people who celebrated life.
But at only 40 years old, the subtle changes began . . . the lapses in memory.

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2010/06/20/sunday/main6600364.shtml

North Carolina International Couple & Family at Kannapolis Intimidators Game!

2010-07-06T07:46:00.001-04:00

Joseph and Me setting up our PP4Alz table!

http://mncips.blogspot.com/2010/07/north-carolina-international-couple.html

Mrs. North Carolina International

Cynthia Griner

North Carolina International Couple and PP4Alz Teens

2010-06-22T14:31:00.001-04:00

PP4Alz Teens

http://mncips.blogspot.com/2010/06/north-carolina-international-couple-and.html

Joseph is taking the photo.

Mrs. North Carolina International
Cynthia Griner

Mrs. North Carolina International and Her CFO have a meeting at The Ivey

2010-06-22T09:51:00.001-04:00

Lynn Ivey ~ President/Founder

June 17th Joseph and I had the opportunity to sit down and have a meeting with Lynn Ivey, who is the Founder of The Ivey in Charlotte. The Ivey is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization developed as a tribute to Lynn's mother, who suffered from Alzheimer’s, as well as her father who was her loving caregiver for many years. Seeing that adult day care was the best solution for her parents, Lynn created The Ivey as a national model that not only provides outstanding care for individuals fighting the disease but also creates a supportive environment for families coping with the challenges of care giving.

At The Ivey, every day is filled with exciting activities designed by their certified activity coordinators to meet the specific interests and needs of their members. Meaningful, stimulating arts and crafts developed for the needs of local community organizations help to revitalize a sense of self-worthiness for their members.

The Ivey's medical staff includes a full time registered nurse (RN), licensed practical nurse (LPN), and certified nursing assistants (CNA's). The staff- to-member ratios are 1:5, lower than the required 1:6 licensing standards.

The Ivey's personal care is fully supervised and attention is paid to every detail. The center's services are designed for the renewed health and inspired well-being of their members.

The cycle menu is approved by a Registered Dietitian and accommodates the special dietary and functional needs of all their members. Every member's need is at the forefront of consideration in the preparation of every meal. The exquisite food service offering is designed to tempt through the sense of smell, enhance the desire to eat, and engage in fun-filled activities in the kitchen - just like home.

We talked about collaborating together on a fund specifically designated for a Caregiver. The fund is called PP4Alz Caregiver Fund. PURPLE PASSION 4 Alzheimer's will add funds to this account from various programs in place and fundraisers. The Caregiver will need to be qualified to receive this fund. The fund will help a financial burdened Caregiver, who otherwise could not afford the services that The Ivey offers. As I have stated before in my National Press Release "It is so important for caregivers to take care of themselves so they have the patience and understanding to take care of their loved one's that are afflicted by the disease."

PURPLE PASSION 4 Alzheimer's PP4Alz Teens program is scheduled to perform in July. Both Lynn and Kelly Gibson, who is the Activities Director, are excited about our visit! The kids are too!

Note: Joseph is not pictured because he was the photographer that day!

The Ivey
http://www.theivey.com/

PURPLE PASSION 4 Alzheimer's
http://www.pp4alz.org/

Event Fashion ~ Flow by Tara Davis
http://www.flowbytaradavis.com/

Mrs. North Carolina International
Cynthia Griner

Mrs. North Carolina International meets with Congresswoman Sue Myrick

2010-06-18T21:47:00.002-04:00

Congresswoman Sue Myrick

Official Letter

On June 14th I had the honor of meeting Congresswoman Sue Myrick in her NC headquarters in Charlotte.

Sue Myrick is a North Carolina Congresswoman. She has represented North Carolina's 9th Congressional district in the United States House of Representatives since 1995, the first Republican woman to represent North Carolina in the United States Congress. From 1987 to 1991, Myrick served as the first and so far only female Mayor of Charlotte.

We discussed how Alzheimer's patients would be affected by the New Health Care Reform Act. Having a mother who was afflicted by the disease for more than 5 years she expressed the need for the Nation to work together to find a CURE and assist those currently diagnosed with Alzheimer's as well as caregivers.

She indicated that she would be available to me to assist in any way with my PURPLE PASSION 4 Alzheimer's. I was humbled and touched when she said that I was an inspiration and already a part of the National Alzheimer's Initiative. I was pleasantly surprised when her Chief of Staff Hal requested if they could post a photo of Sue and me on her website!

I sincerely hoped we could have spent more time together as once again this was a common topic of discussion. We both laughed when we realized that she had unknowingly chose to wear a purple top that day! I was able to inform her that purple is the color of Alzheimer's!

Good Karma!

Congresswoman Sue Myrick
http://www.suemyrick.com/

Update on the National Alzheimer's Project Act

2010-06-18T17:35:00.002-04:00

The National Alzheimer’s Project Act (S.3036/H.R.4689) continues to have great momentum in Congress, but we still need your support in telling our nation’s leaders about this crucial legislation. Please take one moment and ask U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius to support the enactment of the National Alzheimer’s Project Act to launch a campaign within the federal government to overcome Alzheimer’s disease. Send a message to Secretary Sebelius and ask for her support on the National Alzheimer’s Project Act now.

http://www.kintera.org/siteapps/advocacy/ActionItem.aspx?c=mmKXLbP8E&b=6089303

The National Alzheimer’s Project Act calls for the creation of an Alzheimer’s project office within the Office of the Secretary of Health and Human Services, responsible for creating a national plan to overcome Alzheimer’s and an inter-agency Advisory Council on Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment. The Alzheimer’s Study Group (ASG), recommended the creation of an outcomes-oriented, project focused coordinating office by 2010. The National Alzheimer’s Project Act will create this office and must be enacted this year.

Changing the Trajectory of Alzheimer's Disease

2010-06-18T17:29:00.002-04:00

New Public Policy Research from the Alzheimer’s Association:

A new Alzheimer’s Association study shows that new therapies for Alzheimer’s could save billions for American families and the economy. The new study, “Changing the Trajectory of Alzheimer’s Disease: A National Imperative,” adds projected financial implications to the significant human need arguments for the federal government to address the Alzheimer’s crisis.

The study shows that disease-modifying treatments (in addition to improving lives) could dramatically slow the rapidly increasing cost of Alzheimer’s to Medicare, Medicaid, and other payers. These future cost savings make an even stronger argument for policymakers to invest in more research now.

If current trends continue, Alzheimer’s will cost the United States $20 trillion over the next 40 years. It will cost $172 billion to care for people with Alzheimer’s in 2010 alone—and that number may increase to $1.08 trillion in 2050.

The report examines two hypothetical treatments and their impact on both people living with Alzheimer’s and the costs of their care.

A potential treatment delaying the onset of Alzheimer’s by five years (somewhat similar to the effectiveness of anti-cholesterol drugs in preventing heart disease) could lead to 5.8 million fewer Americans living with Alzheimer’s in 2050, and it would save Medicare and Medicaid more than $42 billion in 2020 and as much as $362 billion in 2050.

A potential treatment slowing the progression Alzheimer’s (somewhat similar to treatments for HIV/AIDS and several cancers) could result in far fewer people with Alzheimer’s disease reaching the severe stage when care demands and costs are greatest. This type of treatment would save Medicare and Medicaid more than $34 billion in 2020 and $180 billion in 2050.

To read the full report, go to www.alz.org/Trajectory.

Alzheimer's disease mortality is on the rise

2010-06-18T17:21:00.000-04:00

With a rapidly aging baby boomer population, Alzheimer's will continue to impact more lives. From 2000-2006, Alzheimer's disease deaths increased 46.1 percent, while other selected causes of death decreased. Strategic investments in other diseases have resulted in declines in deaths, and we need to see the same type of investment for Alzheimer's.

African-Americans and Hispanics are at greater risk of Alzheimer's

2010-06-18T17:20:00.000-04:00

The most significant new information coming from this year's report: African-Americans and Hispanics are at higher risk for developing Alzheimer's. African-Americans are about twice as likely to have Alzheimer's than whites, and Hispanics are about 1.5 times more likely than whites to develop the disease.

Although there appears to be no known genetic factor for these differences, the report examines the impact of health conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes, conditions that are prevalent in the African-American and Hispanic communities and how these conditions also increase Alzheimer risk.

Another interesting aspect explored is the fact that although African-Americans and Hispanics have a higher rate of Alzheimer's and dementia, they are less likely than whites to have a diagnosis. The report examines the implications of this later diagnosis on families and healthcare costs.

"A Night of PURPLE Jewelry"

2010-06-15T19:23:00.001-04:00

A JEWELRY EVENT AND AUCTION BENEFITTING PURPLE PASSION 4 ALZHEIMER'S Proceeds from the sales of jewelry will be donated to PURPLE PASSION 4 Alzheimer’s, a local non-profit raising funds and awareness of Alzheimer’s, supporting the Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation to find a cure. Special Appearance by Cynthia Griner Mrs. North Carolina International 2010 & CEO/Founder of PURPLE PASSION 4 Alzheimer’s

http://events.wcnc.com/charlotte/events/anightofpurplejewelry-/E0-001-031523217-1