ONE STEP AT A TIME!
The PAAD-2 team was thrilled to participate in the Alzheimer Association’s Walk To End Alzheimer’s in Greensboro on Saturday, Oct. 16. Our team’s primary mission is to conduct the PAAD-2 research study that explores the protective benefit of exercise for people with a family history of Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, we support our fellow research organizations and community partners searching for answers for those with Alzheimer’s and their families.
The NIH (National Institute of Health) estimates that there are currently more than 250 active clinical trials and studies that seek to prevent, treat, or learn more about Alzheimer’s. Those studies need at least 270,000 volunteers to participate! What does all this research accomplish?
Research and Evidence-Based Programming
Alzheimer’s research studies have different goals and protocols but share the fundamental characteristics of being methodical, systematic, and measurable. These studies contribute to discoveries and knowledge that lay the groundwork for evidence-based practice. In this way, research can contribute directly to solutions in programming, healthcare, and government policies to make a difference in the lives of those with Alzheimer’s and their families.
One good example of the potential impact of research is illustrated in the 2018 published report of PAAD, the pilot study for PAAD-2:
“Further, if [physical activity] PA helps to maintain cognitive performance over time in persons with an increased risk of [Alzheimer’s disease] AD due to their familial history, this could have important public health implications. This is because delaying the onset of AD by as little as 6 months can reduce the prevalence of AD by 100,000 people after 10 years.”
Partnering To Inform About Alzheimer’s Research
The PAAD-2 team is always looking to partner with organizations that share our goals to find ways that people can build protection against Alzheimer’s. We believe family members are an influential part of that search. Here are a few examples of our outreach:
- Inform people about the latest research findings related to exercise, cognitive abilities, and Alzheimer’s research (Find us on Facebook)
- Speak to groups and organizations about fitness, brain health, and our research at UNCG
- Support partner organizations in education and research related to Alzheimer’s
We would love to find out more about your organization and how we might work together for the benefit of our community! Please email us at paad2@uncg.edu or call us at 336-334-4765.