The science of healthy aging

Aging is often thought of as a process of decline that begins at about 60- 65 and then relentlessly carries us toward our end, diminishing our capabilities as it goes. It is inevitable, immutable, and inexorable. 

Biomedical scientists now consider almost everything about that concept wrong. Aging is increasingly seen as a lifelong process that we can influence and alter to a remarkable degree. Researchers are learning more every day about the complex metabolic, cellular, and molecular processes within us, and they are using that knowledge to develop new ways not only to live longer, but to live better. 

Duke University School of Medicine is at the forefront of this new frontier of innovation and promise, which aims to add healthy years to life.  With pioneering research, compassionate care, and a long history in the field, Duke scientists and clinicians are reshaping how we understand, improve, and extend the human lifespan. 

Read more HERE

Alzheimer’s Association Launches (re)think your brain to Drive Early Action on Brain Health

The Alzheimer’s Association today announced the launch of (re)think your brain™, a new science-based initiative designed to move people from brain health awareness to action. The initiative expands how people understand and care for their brains and introduces the (re)think your brain 6-Step Challenge, a step-by-step guide with proven practical actions people can start right away to help support brain health and cognitive function.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association 2026 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report, nearly nine in 10 U.S. adults say maintaining brain health as they age is very important, and 99% say it is as important as physical health. Yet only 9% say they know how to maintain their brain health, revealing a clear gap between awareness and action.

Read more about this HERE

People living with dementia and their families need clear guidance when weighing choices of new Alzheimer’s treatments

Guided by our Medical & Scientific Advisory Panel (MSAP), Alzheimer’s Disease International’s position is that people making decisions about treatment benefit from information that is specific, balanced, and transparent. This includes an honest discussion of the potential advantages, the limitations, and the uncertainties of each approved therapy. Approaches that combine results from multiple drugs with very different characteristics can unintentionally obscure both signs of benefit and risks, precisely at a time when people affected by MCI (Mild Cognitive Impairment) or by dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease and carers are seeking practical guidance.

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Can Walking Reduce the Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease?

  • A 10-year study showed that APOE e4 carriers experience faster cognitive decline than APOE e2 and e3 carriers.
  • Greater walking time appeared to benefit cognitive performance for female APOE e2 and e3 carriers.
  • In males, walking time and APOE status were not as strongly associated with cognition.
  • Maintaining walking time over 10 years was associated with slower cognitive decline among APOE e4 carriers.

Read more HERE

Using the body’s own sounds to diagnose Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s before the first symptoms appear

Long before the tell-tale signs of Parkinson’s disease appear, including tremors and muscle stiffness, there are other, more subtle signs of the disease.

These include changes in oral pronunciation and language and difficulties breathing or swallowing.

People with Alzheimer’s disease can also experience a reduction in their vocabulary and a tendency to repeat certain words. These also appear well before there is clear memory loss.

Read more HERE