Alzheimer’s News

Alzheimer’s News April 2022
New findings suggest that regular exercise may help protect cognitive function. This new study was published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association. Several studies have shown these benefits but “how” was not well understood. This new work gives us clues about the underlying biology. This new study shows that regular exercise boosts the presence of specific proteins in the brain. These proteins play a role in facilitating the exchange of information between brain cells through a connection known as the synapse. This study also demonstrated an association between lower levels of these proteins and increased risk of cognitive decline. “Synapse are the critical communicating junctions between nerve cells and are really where the magic happens when it comes to cognition,” said Kaitlin Casaletto, Ph. D. “All of our thinking and memory occurs as a result of these synaptic communications.”
You can learn more by going to www.alz.org/help-support/resources or the Alzheimer’s Helpline which is accessible 24/7 via 800-272-3900 and staffed by master’s level clinicians to assist with crisis situations, decision making, and disease information. You can find virtual dementia caregiver resources online at alz.org/covid19help. Tools and support are also available in Spanish.
Want to learn more about the Alzheimer’s Association and what they do here in St. Louis? Visit alz.org/greatermissouri and/or contact PUCC’s Faith Outreach Ambassador with the Alzheimer’s Association, Joyce Ruiz at joyceruiz7@gmail.com