Alzheimer’s disease in Florida

Alzheimer’s research at University of Miami flags key genes
The Miami Herald
Researchers at the University of Miami announced yesterday that they have identified nine genes linked to increased susceptibility to developing Alzheimer’s disease.

Silver Alert Information
WJXT-TV ABC Jacksonville
The Silver Alert program helps track seniors with conditions like Alzheimer’s disease when they wander and get lost.

Caffeine May Be Good For Your Brain
Foster Folly News
Researchers have found that moderate caffeine consumption can slow the progression of dementia like Alzheimer’s disease in women.

Alzheimer’s disease is ‘a complete personality change’
Treasure Coast News
Alzheimer’s disease affects more than just memory; it affects lives of the sufferer and those who care for him or her in so many ways.

FSU researchers work to understand emotional toll of being a caregiver
Tallahassee Democrat
Florida State academics are reaching out to find ways to help caregivers who care for people with conditions like Alzheimer’s disease cope better.

Aging gracefully: Holiday parties tough for memory impaired
Ft. Myers News-Press
Changing household schedules and routines for holiday gatherings and guests can wreck havoc for individuals with conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.

Some health predictions for ’09
Ft. Myers News-Press
Discover magazine predicts the introduction of new drugs for Alzhiemer’s in 2009.

‘Senior Smart Puzzles’ offer age-appropriate challenges
St. Petersburg Times
The "Senior Smart Puzzles" books are full of good mental exercises to help seniors with conditions like Alzheimer’s remain mentally sharp.

Are you getting Alzheimer’s? Probably not, but . . .
St. Petersburg Times
Some advice on determining if common memory mishaps mean one has Alzheimer’s or not.

Should statins be available for everyone?
South Florida Sun-Sentinel (The Los Angeles Times)
Since statins are proving helpful for more than just lowering cholestol — including helping prevent Alzheimer’s disease — doctors are considering encouraging more people to use them.

The Rhythmic Arts Project taps into UPARC students’ abilities
St. Petersburg Times
Music is helping a wide range of people — including Alzheimer’s patients — improve their condition.

Local scientists report Alzheimer’s advance
Sarasota Herald-Tribune
Roskamp Institute researchers have found a way to inhibit the build up of the protein amyloid that occurs in the brains of Alzheimer’s disease sufferers.  They are conducting additional research to determine if this can lead to curing the condition.

Service groups, arts obtain county funds
Florida Today
Brevard County in Florida will continue to provide grants to several non-profits organizations,including the Brevard Alzheimer’s Foundation, despite the current economic downturn.

Do screens help spot dementia, or harm?
The Miami Herald
Despite controversy surrounding simple memory screening for Alzheimer’s disease, the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America argues that these tests are valuable in helping detect the condition and other forms of dementia.

Transmitter bracelet locates lost patients
Sarasota Herald-Tribune
The Project Lifesaver bracelets have helped many concerned families safely locate loved ones who have wandered off.  This is of great concern to those who care for individuals with conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.

Briefs: Stay sharp with crossword puzzles, wine
St. Petersburg Times
A report published on www.agehealthy.org suggests that the best way to reduce one’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease is to lead an active life while following a nutritious diet.