University of Pittsburgh Alzheimer's Disease Research Center

We can't wait to see you Wednesday at our Health & Wellness Day! Stop by for free screenings, resources, and demos. Learn what's available in the community and where to find healthcare services that meet your needs!

Come and join us! It’s our 2nd Annual Health and Wellness Day!! Your health is your wealth!

The University of Pittsburgh Alzheimer's Disease Research Center is expanding its Coffee and Conversation Series to the Latino community.

Join us Saturday, April 20, 2024 from 2:15 pm - 3:15 pm at the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh - Beechview, 1910 Broadway Avenue, Pittsburgh PA 15216.

Please join us to view a free screening of the "Remember Me" a dementia documentary on Saturday, April 20th from 12-3 pm at the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh - Homewood, 7101 Frankstown Avenue, Pittsburgh PA 15208.

March is a time to honor the incredible contributions of women throughout history and in our lives today. From trailblazing leaders to everyday heroes, women have shaped our world in countless ways.

Let's take this month to recognize and celebrate the achievements, resilience, and strength of women everywhere. Whether it's the pioneers who shattered glass ceilings or the unsung heroes making a difference in their communities, their stories inspire us all.

Join us in celebrating Women's History Month Thursday, March 28th from 2-3 pm at the Everyday Cafe located at 532 N. Homewood Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15208 with featured speaker, Dr. Lilcelia Williams. Come and engage in candid conversation about her journey to becoming a health disparities research scientist and explaining the ties that bind.

In 1912, Solomon Carter Fuller, M.D., USA's 1st Black psychiatrist, published the 1st comprehensive clinical review of all cases that had been reported up to that point.

The University of Pittsburgh Alzheimer's Disease Research Center is celebrating Black History Month!

Throughout February, we honor the invaluable contributions of Black individuals to history, culture, and science. At the ADRC, we're committed to advancing Alzheimer's research while recognizing the diverse voices and experiences that enrich our work.

This month, we spotlight the resilience, innovation, and leadership of Black scientists, caregivers, and advocates who were impacted by Alzheimer's disease. Their association to this disease inspires us every day as we strive for breakthroughs in understanding, treatment, and prevention.

Join us as we commemorate Black History Month by amplifying Black voices, promoting equity in research, and fostering inclusive communities. Together, we can create a brighter future for all affected by Alzheimer's.

Learn more about medication and managing common behavioral symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease below.

Medication and managing common behavioral symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease Common behavioral symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease include sleeplessness, wandering, agitation, anxiety, aggression, restlessness, and depression. Scientists are learning why these symptoms occur and are studying new treatments — drug and non-drug — to manage them. Research has shown that treat...

Featured speaker, Dr. Carl V. Hill, at the Walter Allen Memorial Community Lecture. The ADRC has been honoring this Hill District resident for the past 15 years by bringing science to the underrepresented communities through educational lectures and programming. Dr. Hill is speaking about the “The Power of Partnership in the Pursuit of Health Equity in Alzheimer’s and all other Dementia”.

Please join us to hear this dynamic presentation from the chief officer of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion from the Alzheimer's Association, Dr. Carl Hill as our keynote speaker for the Fall Walter Allen Memorial Community Lecture.

Where: Energy Innovation Center
1435 Bedford Avenue
When: October 11, 2022
Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm

Click link below to register

https://wamclfallseries2022freetickets.eventbrite.com

Clinical research is medical research involving people. There are two types of clinical research — observational studies and clinical trials. Observational studies observe people in normal settings, while clinical trials are research studies performed with people that are aimed at evaluating a medical, surgical, or behavioral intervention.

Many people like the idea of participating in clinical research studies but may have questions about participating. To decide if participating in clinical research is right for you, consider these common questions:
• What steps are taken to keep volunteers safe? Researchers are required by law to ensure the safety of study participants and to let participants know of any possible risks. You are never obligated to participate in a study.
• Does the research team keep my identity private? Researchers must keep health and personal information private, as outlined by federal laws. Most studies only share results that are de-identified, or not linked to specific individuals.
• Where can I find a clinical trial to participate in? Check out the Alzheimers.gov Clinical Trials Finder. You can also contact the NIA Alzheimer’s and related Dementias Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center at 800-438-4380 or email for more information on finding a clinical trial.

Read all 12 frequently asked questions about clinical research. Click the link below.

https://www.alzheimers.gov/clinical-trials/frequently-asked-questions?utm_source=nia-eblast&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=alzgov-20220816

Meals can be a challenging time for people with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers. However, there are steps caregivers can take to help make mealtimes successful. Consider these tips:
• Serve meals in a consistent, familiar place and way whenever possible.
• Offer just one food at a time instead of filling the plate or table with too many options.
• Be patient and give the person enough time to finish the meal.

Check out NIA’s infographic to find more tips to make mealtimes easier for a person with Alzheimer’s.

Tips to Make Mealtimes Easier for People with Alzheimer's Learn about how to make mealtimes easier for people with Alzheimer's disease in this infographic.

Do you want to witness first-hand what is going on in dementia science and research?

Here is a great opportunity!

Get free access to the Virtual Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC)! This conference is the largest gathering of scientists working in the field of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Leading scientists will present research in the areas of prevention and treatment of dementia, investigating causes of the disease, and finding ways to improve care and diagnosis. We are inviting general audiences to join in this virtual scientific conference, so you have an opportunity to witness all the work being done.

Over 5 days of the conference - you will have the opportunity to watch any sessions you may be interested in and will also have the chance to connect with other care partners, people with a diagnosis, and research participants in daily small group discussions.

Dates: Live sessions Sunday July 31 to Thursday Aug 4.
Plus- you will have access to all recorded sessions for an additional 30 days.

The conference is available virtually. Live sessions are from 8-5 pm Pacific time but can recording can be accessed at any time after a session is complete.

Cost: FREE!

Here’s the link to read more and sign up!
https://redcap.link/aaic2022

Consent Form

People with Alzheimer’s may need help with daily tasks, such as using the bathroom, as the disease progresses. As a caregiver, you can take steps to make the person’s home a safer place and avoid accidents. To help reduce bathroom hazards, consider these tips:
• Use a plastic shower stool and a hand-held showerhead to make bathing easier.
• Place nonskid adhesive strips, decals, or mats in the tub and shower to help prevent slips, trips, and falls. If the bathroom is uncarpeted, consider placing these strips next to the tub, toilet, and sink as well.
• Use a raised toilet seat with handrails or install grab bars beside the toilet to provide support.
• Remove the lock from the bathroom door to prevent the person with Alzheimer’s from accidentally getting locked inside.

Explore more ideas at the link below:

https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/nih.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=3dca973015582e3c417f6296c&id=0f33c02a50&e=58bb264625__;!!NHLzug!NB28TPUIhSA7mvx0OoQeNr80YosEJYSasmIOgWQBa2rnNFVLjqWwX1L7nq9K7bJ9V3UX3seInjwPwoGE$

Caregiving can be extremely rewarding, but it can also be overwhelming. It’s not uncommon to feel lonely or frustrated with everyone around you, from the care recipient to the doctors. That’s why taking care of yourself — physically and mentally — is one of the most important things you can do as a caregiver. Here are a few things you can do to care for yourself:

• Make time for yourself each day. Take a break to enjoy a cup of tea or call a friend.
• Eat healthy foods. Nutritious food can help keep you healthy and active longer.
• Stay physically active. Try doing yoga or going for a walk.
• Get enough sleep. Aim for seven to nine hours each night.
• Consider joining a caregiver support group. Meeting other caregivers will give you a chance to share stories and ideas.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Reach out to family members, friends, or local services for support.

Get exercise as often as you can. Try doing yoga or going for a walk.

Try practicing meditation. Research suggests that practicing meditation may reduce blood pressure, anxiety and depression, and insomnia.

Consider seeking help from mental health professionals to help you cope with stress and anxiety. Talk with your doctor about finding treatment.

Caring for yourself is one of the most important things you can do as a . Share these self-care tips: https://go.usa.gov/xtEmp

Make Yourself a Priority, Too: Tips for Caregivers Get tips on caring for yourself while caring for others. Read, download, and share this infographic with family and friends.

It’s important to spend meaningful time with a family member or friend who has Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. Participating together in activities your loved one enjoys can help improve their quality of life and manage behavior changes that may come with the disease, such as sleep problems, aggression, and agitation. It can also help grow and strengthen your connection. However, it may be difficult to know what activities you can safely do with your loved one.

Explore examples below. You may need to modify these activities based on the person’s preferences and abilities. Click link below to learn more.

Activities To Do With a Family Member or Friend Who Has Alzheimer’s Disease Find suggestions for activities that family members and friends can do with their loved one's with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia.

Clear Thoughts Foundation, a Pittsburgh-based nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting dementia, awards $200,000 to co-investigators, Robert M. Friedlander, Amantha Thathiah, and ADRC Director, Oscar Lopez. This project is part of the CTF Consortium to begin preclinical research on how melatonin might affect dementia-related processes in the brain. Congratulations to Dr. Lopez and his colleagues!

Read more by clicking the link below.

https://www.pitt.edu/pittwire/accolades-honors/melatonin-alzheimers-disease-link-clear-thoughts-foundation

Can melatonin help prevent neuron damage associated with dementia? The Clear Thoughts Foundation has awarded $200,000 to co-investigators from Pitt to learn more.

Many studies suggest that our diet may affect the aging brain’s ability to think and remember. These findings have led to research on general eating patterns and whether they might make a difference.

One diet that shows promising evidence of health benefits is the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, fish, and other seafood; unsaturated fats such as olive oils; and low amounts of red meat, eggs, and sweets. A variation of this diet, called MIND (Mediterranean–DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) incorporates the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, which has been shown to lower high blood pressure, a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease.

While scientists aren’t sure why the Mediterranean diet might help the brain, its effect on improving cardiovascular health might in turn reduce dementia risk. Two recent studies suggest that, as part of this diet, eating fish may be the strongest factor influencing higher cognitive function and slower cognitive decline.

University of Pittsburgh Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center
Seeking individuals with Alzheimer’s disease who experience agitation

Individuals or their loved ones who experience agitation, aggression, anger, hostility, or outbursts with Alzheimer's disease may qualify for a new clinical research study being conducted at the University of Pittsburgh Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center in partnership with Johns Hopkins Medicine.

You (or a loved one) may be eligible for the study if you:

- Have a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease
- Experience frequent agitation or aggression
- Have a caregiver who spends at least several hours per week supervising your care, is willing to accompany you to study visits, and is also willing to participate in the study
- Are available for 6 months of follow up

To learn more about this study, visit the study website at: https://www.hopkinstrials.org/public/citadhome.asp
or contact Patricia Henderson at [email protected] or MaryAnn Oakley at [email protected] or 412-692-2700

Trouble sleeping? Explore these tips for people with dementia

Dementia can often cause a person’s sleeping habits to change. For example, they may sleep too much or not enough, or wake up several times during the night. Poor sleep quality can make dementia symptoms worse. While changes in sleep habits can be frustrating, there are things that can help. Try these tips:
• Follow a regular schedule by going to sleep and getting up at the same time each day.
• Develop a relaxing bedtime routine with lowered lights, cool temperature, and no electronic screens.
• Avoid caffeine and naps late in the day.
• Talk to your doctor if you have problems sleeping.
Visit Alzheimers.gov to find more sleep tips for people living with dementia. This information is also available in Spanish.

Tips for People With Dementia | National Institute on Aging Find tips for preparing for life with dementia, including day-to-day and future planning.

Please join us in congratulating Community Engagement Coordinator, Melita Terry, for being honored as a Community Champion by Pittsburgh Public Schools. This award recognizes Ms. Terry's commitment and contributions to the well-being of the community, including her efforts to foster brain health and promote equity in clinical research. Congratulations, Melita!

https://www.pghschools.org/Page/5755?fbclid=IwAR07-gos_KsN2GIhiT9pBIycHvqPykMuhNWG6zzDIxEyjvrgxFo_9DmvTnc

Pittsburgh Public Schools Pittsburgh Public Schools believes that every child—at every level of academic performance—can achieve excellence.

The second most common type of dementia diagnosis is vascular dementia. It’s caused by conditions that damage blood vessels in the brain and interrupt the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain. As a result, symptoms can depend on the size, location, and number of damaged brain areas. People with vascular dementia may experience:

• Difficulty performing tasks that used to be easy, such as paying bills
• Trouble following instructions or learning new information and routines
• Problems with language, such as finding the right word or using the wrong word
• Changes in personality, behavior, and mood, such as depression, agitation, and anger

View more signs and symptoms of vascular dementia. Click below.

What Is Vascular Dementia? | National Institute on Aging Find information about vascular dementia causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and resources.

It’s important to spend quality time with a family member or friend who has Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. This can help improve their quality of life and manage behavior changes that may come with the disease. It can also help grow and strengthen their connection to you. Shared activities are a great way to have meaningful time.

Choose safe and enjoyable activities that:
• Can be done around the house, such as feeding or brushing a pet.
• Encourage movement, such as stretching or yoga.
• Engage the mind, like puzzles or board games.
• Promote healthy eating, such as gardening or cooking together.
• Boost social connections, like a video call or exercise class.
• Include children, like listening to music or reading stories out loud.

Click link below to learn more on the NIA website.

Activities To Do With a Family Member or Friend Who Has Alzheimer’s Disease Find suggestions for activities that family members and friends can do with their loved one's with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia.

The Alzheimer's Disease Research Center at the University of Pittsburgh celebrate Black History Month. We continue to honor several black scientists who have made some significant contributions to science and other areas that play major roles in our lives.

This week we celebrate Percy Julian who is known for his work on cortisone, steroids and blood work and Daniel Hale Williams who is noted as one of the first open heart surgeries and opening the first in*******al hospital.

Click on the link to learn more.
https://www.discovermagazine.com/the-sciences/8-amazing-black-scientists-and-how-they-changed-history

8 Amazing Black Scientists and How They Changed History Working everywhere from operating rooms to NASA research facilities, these pioneers propelled us into the future.

The Alzheimer's Disease Research Center at the University of Pittsburgh celebrate Black History Month. We continue to honor several black scientists who have made some significant contributions to science and other areas that play major roles in our lives.

This week we celebrate NASA engineer and inventor of the Lonnie Johnson and Gladys West inventor of the (GPS) Global Positioning System.

Click on the link to learn more.
https://www.discovermagazine.com/the-sciences/8-amazing-black-scientists-and-how-they-changed-history

8 Amazing Black Scientists and How They Changed History Working everywhere from operating rooms to NASA research facilities, these pioneers propelled us into the future.

The Alzheimer's Disease Research Center at the University of Pittsburgh celebrates Black History Month.

Starting this week, we are honoring several black scientists who have made some significant contributions to science that play major roles in our lives.

Today, we salute Katherine Johnson, the first black NASA scientist and Ernest Everett Just, the first black man to work at the Marine Biological Laboratory.

Click on the link to learn more.
https://www.discovermagazine.com/the-sciences/8-amazing-black-scientists-and-how-they-changed-history

8 Amazing Black Scientists and How They Changed History Working everywhere from operating rooms to NASA research facilities, these pioneers propelled us into the future.

The Alzheimer's Disease Research Center at the University of Pittsburgh celebrates Black History Month.

Starting this week, we are honoring several black scientists who have made some significant contributions to science that play major roles in our lives.

Today, we salute George Washington Carver, the first African American to earn a bachelor's and master's in science at Iowa University; and Charles R. Drew, the creator of the blood bank and first director of the American Red Cross.

Click on the link to learn more.
https://www.discovermagazine.com/the-sciences/8-amazing-black-scientists-and-how-they-changed-history

8 Amazing Black Scientists and How They Changed History Working everywhere from operating rooms to NASA research facilities, these pioneers propelled us into the future.

Many older adults worry about their memory and cognitive abilities as they age. While it’s normal to forget things once in a while, frequent memory lapses may be a sign of a more serious problem, such as Alzheimer’s disease.

Watch NIA’s new video Is Forgetfulness Normal or Not? to learn more. Click on the link below.

Is Forgetfulness Normal or Not? This animated video from the National Institute on Aging at NIH explains the difference between mild forgetfulness and serious memory problems.For more infor...

Tips for Everyday Care for People With Dementia

Early on in Alzheimer’s and related dementias, people experience changes in thinking, remembering, and reasoning in a way that affects daily life and activities. Eventually, people with these diseases will need more help with simple, everyday tasks. This may include bathing, grooming, and dressing. It may be upsetting to the person to need help with such personal activities.

Here are a few tips to consider early on and as the disease progresses:

- Try to keep a routine, such as bathing, dressing, and eating at the same time each day.
- Help the person write down to-do lists, appointments, and events in a notebook or calendar.
- Plan activities that the person enjoys and try to do them at the same time each day.
- Consider a system or reminders for helping those who must take medications regularly.
- When dressing or bathing, allow the person to do as much as possible.
- Buy loose-fitting, comfortable, easy-to-use clothing, such as clothes with elastic waistbands, fabric fasteners, or large zipper pulls instead of shoelaces, buttons, or buckles.
- Use a sturdy shower chair to support a person who is unsteady and to prevent falls. You can buy shower chairs at drug stores and medical supply stores.
- Be gentle and respectful. Tell the person what you are going to do, step by step while you help them bathe or get dressed.
Serve meals in a consistent, familiar place and give the person enough time to eat.

Next Steps After an Alzheimer's Diagnosis

What are the next steps after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis?

nia.nih.gov Get information and resources about what to do and expect after a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease.