Alliance for Aging Research

Easing the Burden of Alzheimer’s Caregivers

2008-05-09T15:00:00+00:00

About 10 million of the almost 45 million caregivers in the United States care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. Most of these caregivers are not prepared for their new role, which takes a toll on their mental and physical health. Furthermore, Alzheimer’s disease is often called a “family disease,” because the daily stress of watching a loved one slowly decline affects the whole family.

Osteoporosis Prevention and Treatment: Algorithm and Resources for Health Care Professionals

2008-05-08T13:45:00+00:00

This laminated clipboard tool is an easy-to-use, go-to resource for physicians and other health care professionals. The tool includes treatment guidelines, a chart of FDA-approved osteoporosis medications, and tips on discussing prevention and risk factor reduction with patients. The treatment algorithm provides step-by-step diagnostic and treatment instructions based on a person's age, gender, and health status.

Alliance Develops New Osteoporosis Tool for Health Care Professionals

2008-05-08T13:45:00+00:00

In recognition of National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month, the Alliance for Aging Research released an osteoporosis prevention and treatment clipboard tool. The user-friendly tool is designed to assist health care professionals in determining the best management plan for all patients who are at risk for or have osteoporosis, as well as facilitate important conversations about bone health.

Well-Being Index—The Dow Jones of Health

2008-05-02T14:30:00+00:00

Earlier this week, Gallup and Healthways released the first data from their collaborative Well-Being Index—a Dow Jones type measure of the daily health and well-being of American adults. Polling 1,000 Americans every day for the next 25 years, the Index will be the largest data collection ever assembled on the health and well-being of large populations.

Spending or Investing?—The Silver Book & Innovation

2008-03-26T20:00:00+00:00

With the presidential election looming and the state of our economy in question, it’s not surprising that health care spending continues to be a hot topic.

FDA Needs More Funding to Fulfill Its Mission

2008-03-18T20:00:00+00:00

On February 4, 2008, the Bush administration released its proposed budget recommendations for funding all federal agencies in fiscal year 2009. Under this proposal, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration would receive a 2.9% overall increase in funding this year.

Podcast Series on Personalized Medicine

2008-04-09T20:00:00+00:00

According to the a recent Washington Post article, more than 20 companies today offer personalized genomics tests that promise to help you determine what diseases you may get and gain insight into your personality and behavior.

A Tribute to a Great Scientist

2008-03-11T16:00:00+00:00

Not so very long ago, a medical researcher who chose to study aging was in some danger of committing career suicide. Gerontology was often associated with a dreary listing of physical and mental declines associated with old age.

Osteoporosis—Something to Talk About

2008-04-03T18:45:00+00:00

Ten million Americans have osteoporosis, and 34 million suffer from osteopenia or low bone mass, which increases the risk of developing osteoporosis. The aging of the baby boomer generation will boost these numbers to 52 million by 2010.

Is Diabetes Threatening our Economy?

2008-04-14T13:30:00+00:00

A recent report from the American Diabetes Association confirmed that in addition to being a major public health threat, the increasing cost of diabetes is threatening the health of our economy.

New Documentary Helps to Debunk Stereotypes of Old Age

2008-04-16T15:00:00+00:00

Last Thursday morning during my usual routine of eating breakfast while listening to NPR’s “Morning Edition,” movie critic Kenneth Turan was discussing a new documentary, Young at Heart.

Award-Winning Alzheimer's Disease Workshop Kit Updated

2008-04-10T15:15:00+00:00

In order to educate Alzheimer’s caregivers about the disease and help them stay organized, the Alliance for Aging Research has updated its award-winning kit—Alzheimer’s Disease: Helping Yourself Help a Loved One.

Key Phone Numbers Worksheet

2008-04-10T14:30:00+00:00

A support network can help you accomplish your tasks as a caregiver by offering physical and emotional assistance. Look for support through family, friends, and the community. Use this worksheet to record these key contacts as well as those from your loved one's health care team.

My Personal Schedule Worksheet

2008-04-10T14:15:00+00:00

As Alzheimer's disease progresses, your loved one will need more and more care. While you may feel that you don't have time to think about yourself, it is important to remember your own health and well-being. By exercising, thinking about your health, and giving yourself time to relax, you will stay healthier and be able to spend more time with your loved one. Use this log to keep track of health care appointments, your exercise schedule, social engagements, etc.

Financial & Legal Checklist

2008-04-10T14:15:00+00:00

By starting the financial and legal planning process now, you can make sure that your loved one is cared for as their disease progresses. It's important for you to start this process early, because Alzheimer's disease will gradually make it harder for your loved one to participate in planning. Use this checklist to get you started.