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Press ReleaseDr. Marie Bernard Departs Alliance Board to Accept Position at NIA
WASHINGTON, DC, Oct. 13, 2008 - Concluding six years on the Board of Directors of the not-for-profit Alliance for Aging Research, Dr. Marie A. Bernard assumed new responsibilities this week as Deputy Director of the federal government’s National Institute on Aging.
One of the nation’s most prominent geriatricians, Dr. Bernard’s recently was Professor and Chair of the Donald W. Reynolds Department of Geriatric Medicine at the University of Oklahoma. Her most recent positions included associate chief of staff for Geriatrics and Extended Care at the Oklahoma City Veterans Affairs Medical Center.
In the number two position in the premier federal agency for medical and scientific research in aging, Dr. Bernard will apply her physician’s knowledge and compassion and wide experience in the medical, social and behavioral needs of older Americans. In a statement issued this week by the National Institute on Aging, Dr. Bernard said “There is quite a bit yet to do, particularly as we face the Silver Tsunami of Baby Boomers that will start turning 65 in 2001. There will be particular challenges, since there will be even greater diversity in this population s a results of increased numbers of minority and ethnic elders.”
Alliance Board Chairman James E. Eden said, “Marie Bernard has set a very high standard for service to our non-profit Board and towards our goal to advance science in order to enhance lives of Americans as they grow older. We will miss her counsel within the Alliance but look forward to working closely with her in her important new role at the National Institute on Aging.”
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Founded in 1986, the Alliance for Aging Research is a nonprofit, independent organization dedicated to improving the health and independence of aging Americans through public and private funding of medical research and geriatric education. The Alliance combines the interest of top scientists, public officials, business executives, and foundation leaders to promote a greater national investment in research and new technologies that will prepare our nation for the coming senior boom, and improve the quality of life for today’s older generation -
Press ReleaseAlliance Launches Aortic Stenosis Awareness Campaign
ALLIANCE FOR AGING RESEARCH LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN TO INCREASE AWARENESS OF AORTIC STENOSIS
Survey Reveals Doctors, Patients Lack Information about Heart Condition
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Following a survey that shows doctors and patients lack information about aortic stenosis (AS), a common age-related heart condition, the not-for-profit Alliance for Aging Research is launching a campaign to educate physicians about this under-diagnosed and under-treated condition.
Aortic stenosis is the abnormal narrowing of the aortic valve which obstructs blood flow from the heart to the arteries. If left untreated AS can lead to heart disease and sudden death. Today nearly one in four Americans age 65 and older has AS. With the aging of the population, the number of cases will increase.
According to the Alliance for Aging Research survey, nine out of 10 doctors who commonly treat older people think their patients need more information about AS, particularly regarding symptoms and treatments. In addition, three-quarters of physicians want more information themselves, especially about treatment options.
Many common symptoms of AS, including dizziness, fatigue and heart palpitations, may not appear in older adults or may be assumed to be part of normal aging. That is why it is important for doctors to examine for AS. However, 40 percent of the doctors surveyed do not specifically check for AS during regular check-ups. Risk of sudden death increases dramatically at the onset of symptoms, so early diagnosis is critical. Aortic valve replacement (AVR) surgery is the most effective treatment once symptoms develop, but the Alliance survey revealed that doctors don’t always recommend it for older patients due in part to an incorrect belief that age is a contraindication to surgery.
“Aortic stenosis is a treatable disease that often goes untreated because of lack of knowledge about the condition,” said Daniel Perry, executive director of the Alliance. “There is a misconception among some doctors and patients that surgery shouldn’t be performed on older adults, when in fact AVR surgery can increase survival and improve quality of life for people of all ages.”
The survey was conducted for the Alliance by the opinion research firm of Beldon Russonello & Stewart. Some 300 general practitioners, internists and geriatricians, randomly selected from the Harris Interactive Physician Panel participated in a web-based survey.
Educational materials include a brochure entitled “Aortic Stenosis in Seniors: A Physician’s Guide” and a video featuring Dr. Jamie Brown, Director of Cardiac Transplantation and Assist Devices at the University of Maryland Medical Center. The video and brochure provide guidelines for diagnosing and determining the severity of the condition, choosing the correct treatment for each patient, and talking to patients—are available free of charge on the Alliance’s website at www.agingresearch.org. Edward Lifesciences is providing support for the campaign through an unrestricted educational grant.
To learn more about this campaign, visit www.agingresearch.org.
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Founded in 1986, the Alliance for Aging Research is a nonprofit, independent organization dedicated to improving the health and independence of aging Americans through public and private funding of medical research and geriatric education. The Alliance combines the interest of top scientists, public officials, business executives, and foundation leaders to promote a greater national investment in research and new technologies that will prepare our nation for the coming senior boom, and improve the quality of life for today’s older generation -
VideoAortic Stenosis in Seniors: Videos
These four videos supplement the brochure Aortic Stenosis in Seniors: A Physician's Guide. Dr. Jamie M. Brown, Director of Cardiac Transplantation and Assist Devices at the University of Maryland Medical Center, highlights his experience and knowledge of aortic stenosis specifically as it relates to older patients. -
BrochureAortic Stenosis in Seniors: A Physician's Guide
Aortic stenosis (AS) is a deadly condition that becomes more common with age. This expert-reviewed resource provides important information for physicians including:
- Screening, diagnosis, and treatment information
- Prognosis comparison of treated and untreated patients
- Tips on talking with your patients about AS
- A quick guide to the 2006 ACC/AHA practice guidelines on AS
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DocumentBone Health of Americans is in Jeopardy
In an Alliance for Aging Research, National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) joint briefing, Dr. Joan Lappe presented on the human burden of osteoporosis and the need for continued research into prevention and treatment options. Her slides are available here. -
DocumentThe Value of Innovation in Osteoporosis
In an Alliance for Aging Research, National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) joint briefing, Rachael Fleurence, PhD, presented on the current economic burden of osteoporosis and the value of innovation in reducing that burden. Her slides are available here. -
Brochure, ReportThe Silver Book: Chronic Disease and Medical Innovation--Osteoporosis
The first volume of The Silver Book was launched in 2006 and has quickly become a trusted resource for health policy practitioners. The Silver Book®: Osteoporosis is the latest volume in this important collection. Each section in the volume includes charts, statistics, and key findings that together paint a comprehensive picture of the burden of osteoporosis and the tremendous potential of innovation. Much of the data focuses on the older population—those most at risk for osteoporosis-related fractures. -
Press ReleaseNew Resource Focuses On The Growing Burden Of Osteoporosis
NEW RESOURCE FOCUSES ON THE GROWING BURDEN OF OSTEOPOROSIS
AND VALUE OF MEDICAL INNOVATION
Washington, DC— Today the Alliance for Aging Research, in partnership with the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF), released a new volume of The Silver Book®: Chronic Disease and Medical Innovation in an Aging Nation. The latest addition to The Silver Book series focuses on the most prevalent bone disease in the U.S.—osteoporosis. The volume was released at a Capitol Hill briefing which featured medical and economic experts and patients. In addition, Reps. Shelley Berkley (D-NV) and Michael Burgess (R-TX), champions of legislation to promote prevention and testing for the disease, supported the briefing.
The Silver Book is published by the non-profit Alliance for Aging Research drawing upon over 400 independent studies and reports on chronic disease and prospects for medical innovations to mitigate the burden. The Silver Book currently catalogues some 1,500 statistics that outline a coming “Silver Tsunami” with the aging U.S. population.
As a driving force behind the 2004 Surgeon General’s Report on Bone Health and Osteoporosis and most recently the Summit for a National Action Plan for Bone Health, NOF is a natural partner for the release of this volume of The Silver Book. NOF is the leading independent organization solely dedicated to osteoporosis and bone health and alerts the public and health care professionals about the importance of bone health and the seriousness of osteoporosis and fractures.
Specific insights into osteoporosis in the latest volume include the following:
- Osteoporosis affects 10 million Americans over the age of 50, and close to 34 million more have low bone mass which increases their risk for the disease.
- Half of all women and up to one in four men over the age of 50 will experience an osteoporosis-related fracture during their lifetime.
- Fractures resulting from osteoporosis can cost individuals more than $81,000 during their lifetime, totaling some $19 billion a year for Americans.
- Osteoporosis is estimated to cost the nation $25.3 billion annually by 2025 unless we find better ways to prevent and treat the disease.
Publication of The Silver Book: Osteoporosis is supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Novartis.
“We’ve made a lot of progress in developing better ways to diagnose and treat the disease, and we need to continue to educate people of all ages about osteoporosis because prevention and early intervention are so important,” said Rep. Berkley, who was diagnosed with the disease in 1998.
“Osteoporosis is a serious and silent disease that affects millions of people who risk fractures that can lead to loss of independence and even death,” said Leo Schargorodski, executive director of NOF. “We are pleased to partner with the Alliance on The Silver Book and to shine a light on the growing burden of this disease.”
“Two and a half years from now, the Baby Boom generation starts to become the largest Medicare generation in history,” explained Daniel Perry, executive director of the Alliance. “Our best defense against the Silver Tsunami is to play to America’s strengths in scientific innovation and technological ingenuity. We hope that The Silver Book will become the ‘go-to’ resource for those who develop health policy.”
To encourage national policies to promote investments in innovation, the Alliance for Aging Research launched The Silver Book: Chronic Disease and Medical Innovation in an Aging Nation in 2006. The initial volume focused on cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and neurological diseases and has quickly become a trusted resource for health policy practitioners. A second volume on vision loss was released in September 2007 in partnership with the National Alliance for Eye and Vision Research.
All of the data are cited with original sources and available online. The online version is a searchable database that is continuously updated as new information is published and that allows users to submit data. Users can also subscribe to the RSS feed.
The new volume on osteoporosis and the other volumes may be accessed online at www.silverbook.org.
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Founded in 1986, the Alliance for Aging Research is a nonprofit, independent organization dedicated to improving the health and independence of aging Americans through public and private funding of medical research and geriatric education. The Alliance combines the interest of top scientists, public officials, business executives, and foundation leaders to promote a greater national investment in research and new technologies that will prepare our nation for the coming senior boom, and improve the quality of life for today’s older generation
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Established in 1984, the National Osteoporosis Foundation is the nation’s leading voluntary health organization solely dedicated to osteoporosis and bone health. Our mission is to prevent osteoporosis and related fractures, to promote lifelong bone health, to help improve the lives of those affected by osteoporosis, and to find a cure through programs of awareness, advocacy, public and health professional education and research. For more information on osteoporosis and bone health, contact NOF online at www.nof.org or by telephone (800) 223-9994. -
Press ReleaseExperts Call for New Research Focus
EXPERTS CALL FOR NEW RESEARCH FOCUS TO SLOW AGING AND EXTEND HEALTHY LIFE
Advances in science predict a ‘longevity dividend’ of economic and social benefits
Washington, DC --- Acknowledging increases in life expectancy and unprecedented aging of populations worldwide, experts from the United States and United Kingdom make the case for a new model of health promotion aimed at slowing aging in humans. Published online by the British Medical Journal (BMJ.com), the experts argue that interventions in aging that have worked in animals are now appropriate for disease prevention in humans and call for a well-funded and aggressive research strategy to extend healthy life.
The paper comes on the heels of a report by researchers at the National Institute on Aging in the July 3 issue of Cell Metabolism that the compound resveratrol slows age-related deterioration in mice.
“The risk for many diseases doubles every five to seven years after age 50,” says Daniel Perry, co-author of the BMJ paper and executive director of the Alliance for Aging Research. “Investing in research to slow the rate of aging has the potential to produce far greater social and economic benefits than seeking cures for diseases of aging one at a time.”
According to Perry, a new research focus on aging is a wise investment given the aging of America’s 78 million baby boomers. The Alliance calls it the “Silver Tsunami”—the rising tide of chronic diseases of aging that threatens to engulf American health care in the 21st century. It is estimated that nearly half of all Americans—and 90 percent of those who are age 65—have at least one chronic disease. The average 75-year-old suffers from three chronic health conditions and takes five prescription medications. Just six diseases—heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s—cost the U.S. more than one trillion dollars each year.
To support “a systematic attack on aging” the authors propose a large increase in resources to investigate how diseases such as type 2 diabetes, congestive heart failure, Alzheimer’s disease and most cancers interact with aging or share mechanisms in common with it.
The authors underscore the potential benefits that would accrue from a new focus on slowing aging. An extension of healthy life would produce health, economic and social benefits, collectively referred to as the “longevity dividend.”
In an accompanying article, Canadian professor Colin Farrelly references the Alliance’s September 2006 Capitol Hill symposium, “Going for the Longevity Dividend: Scientific Goals for the World’s Aging Populations” and encourages policymakers to address the important question of slowing aging. He states that “the longevity dividend deserves a prominent place on the policy agenda.”
At the 2006 symposium, the Alliance released a statement signed by some 100 scientists and advocates from 16 nations calling for a greater focus on investment in aging research, because such research has “the potential to do what no surgical procedure, behavior modification or cure for any one major fatal disease can do; namely, extend youthful vigor throughout the lifespan.”
[“New model of health promotion and disease prevention for the 21st century,” BMJ 2008;337:a399, doi: 10.1136/bmj.a399 (Published 8 July 2008): Robert N. Butler, Richard A. Miller, Daniel Perry, Bruce A. Carnes, T. Franklin Williams, Christine Cassel, Jacob Brody, Marie A. Bernard, Linda Partridge, Thomas Kirkwood, George M. Martin, S. Jay Olshansky.]
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Founded in 1986, the Alliance for Aging Research is a nonprofit, independent organization dedicated to improving the health and independence of aging Americans through public and private funding of medical research and geriatric education. The Alliance combines the interest of top scientists, public officials, business executives, and foundation leaders to promote a greater national investment in research and new technologies that will prepare our nation for the coming senior boom, and improve the quality of life for today’s older generation -
Press ReleaseAlliance for Aging Research Recognizes Erik Fatemi
ALLIANCE FOR AGING RESEARCH RECOGNIZES ERIK FATEMI WITH ‘MAKING A DIFFERENCE’ AWARD
Award Honors Legacy of Health Research Advocate Florence S. Mahoney
WASHINGTON, D.C.-- The Alliance for Aging Research will honor Erik Fatemi, a staff member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies, for his public service and commitment to medical research with its inaugural Florence S. Mahoney Making A Difference Award. Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA), chairman of the subcommittee, will participate in the award ceremony and reception to be held this evening at the Reserve Officers Association.
In his seven years of service on the subcommittee, Fatemi’s responsibilities have included the National Institutes of Health, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and the Department of Education, particularly funding for the No Child Left Behind Act and the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act. He also works on policy related to embryonic stem cell research. Previously, Fatemi worked as a newspaper reporter and editor for 12 years, most recently for Education Week, a newspaper covering K-12 education across the United States.
The award remembers Florence Mahoney for her advocacy and dedication to health care policy, especially aging research. She fought relentlessly to establish the National Institute on Aging (NIA) in the early 1970s despite opposition from President Nixon, members of his administration and various interest groups. Mahoney’s efforts were rewarded in 1974 when the NIA was created, launching a new era in aging research.
She also served on a number of boards and committees, including the National Community Committee on Mental Health; the Lasker Foundation; the National Advisory Arthritis and Metabolic Diseases Council; the National Advisory Child Health and Human Development Council; and the President’s Commission on Heart Disease, Cancer and Stroke.
“We are honored to recognize Erik Fatemi with this award,” said Daniel Perry, executive director of the Alliance. “Erik’s consistent support for medical research has made a difference for many researchers who look to NIH for funding, advocacy groups that strive for innovation, and patients and their families who count on new discoveries to ease their suffering. He exemplifies the values that guided Florence Mahoney, and he is a truly worthy recipient of th is first award named in her honor.”
The reception will bring together leaders in medical research and policy to celebrate Fatemi’s accomplishments and learn about the state of medical science. It will be held from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Reserve Officers Association, 1 Constitution Ave., NE, in Washington, D.C. This event is made possible through a grant from the Florence S. Mahoney Foundation.
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Founded in 1986, the Alliance for Aging Research is a nonprofit, independent organization dedicated to improving the health and independence of aging Americans through public and private funding of medical research and geriatric education. The Alliance combines the interest of top scientists, public officials, business executives, and foundation leaders to promote a greater national investment in research and new technologies that will prepare our nation for the coming senior boom, and improve the quality of life for today’s older generation -
DocumentStanding Strong: Preventing Osteoporosis Podcast
What foods are good for your bones and which ones may be hurting them? What exercise is best for warding off weak bones? When should you start getting your bones scanned?
Find out the answers and get other interesting tips on prevention and treatment in this podcast with Dr. Michelle Bellantoni from Johns Hopkins University. An expert in osteoporosis, Dr. Bellantoni discusses the details of prevention and talks about some of the latest news and research on osteoporosis. To listen to this podcast, click here. -
Press ReleaseExperts Call for Investing in Longevity Science
EXPERTS CALL FOR INVESTING IN LONGEVITY SCIENCE TO BOLSTER OLDER AMERICANS’ CONTRIBUTIONS
Alliance for Aging Research Offers New Podcasts on Web Site
WASHINGTON, D.C.— With the nation’s economy uppermost in many Americans’ minds, the Alliance for Aging Research explores the economic benefits from increased investment in longevity science in its most recent podcast series. The podcast series is part of the Alliance’s SAGE Crossroads website, a forum that explores emerging issues of human aging and longevity.
Millions of baby boomers will reach traditional retirement age soon, but they will continue to drive economic growth by starting new careers, continuing to pay taxes and investing, said Daniel Perry, executive director of the Alliance. “Aging of the population is not a problem so much as a series of opportunities,” said Perry in the podcast. “If we are going to make the most of those opportunities, we really need to reorient society to create more jobs and more opportunities for people after 65, whether it’s in the paid workforce or in these endless possibilities of volunteerism.”
Perry explained that through volunteer work, community involvement and continued participation in the workforce, the older population can make a huge impact on the economy. Investment in medical and behavioral research is necessary to ensure that the elderly are healthy enough to contribute to society.
Other experts who were interviewed for the series on longevity science include:
- Gregory Stock, Ph.D., CEO of Signum Biosciences;
- David Meltzer, Ph.D., an associate professor in the Department of Medicine and an associate faculty member at the Harris School of Public Policy Studies at the University of Chicago;
- Robert W. Fogel, Ph.D., a Nobel Laureate and the Charles R. Walgreen Distinguished Service Professor of American Institutions at the University of Chicago’s Graduate School of Business;
- Jay Olshansky, Ph.D., a professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago School of Public Health;
- Robert Butler, M.D., president and CEO of the International Longevity Center;
- Richard Miller, M.D., Ph.D., a professor of pathology and director of research at the University of Michigan Geriatrics Center; and
- John Q. Trojanowski, M.D., Ph.D., co-director of the Center for Neurodegenerative Disease Research and Marian S. Ware Alzheimer Drug Discovery Program at the University of Pennsylvania.
Another timely topic addressed in the podcasts, called SAGEcasts, is personalized medicine, which features David Merritt, project director at the Center for Health Transformation, and Dr. Greg Downing from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. In podcast #34, Merritt discusses the advantages of a health information technology system that could support personalized medicine.
“We have technology at our fingertips that sometimes we take for granted, but in health care, we are at least a generation behind,” said Merritt. He believes that an electronic system connecting all stakeholders and patients will inevitably be created, but it may not happen for another 10 to 15 years.
Launched in March 2003 by the Alliance for Aging Research and the American Association for the Advancement of Science (publishers of Science Magazine), SAGE Crossroads provides policymakers, journalists and curious consumers with the opportunity to explore the impact of science and technology on aging. SAGEcasts spark discussions with experts on the ethical, political, economic, scientific and societal impacts of aging-related science.
To download the free SAGEcasts, visit http://www.sagecrossroads.net.
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Founded in 1986, the Alliance for Aging Research is a nonprofit, independent organization dedicated to improving the health and independence of aging Americans through public and private funding of medical research and geriatric education. The Alliance combines the interest of top scientists, public officials, business executives, and foundation leaders to promote a greater national investment in research and new technologies that will prepare our nation for the coming senior boom, and improve the quality of life for today’s older generation -
Press ReleaseAlliance Develops Osteoporosis Tool for Health Professionals
ALLIANCE FOR AGING RESEARCH DEVELOPS NEW OSTEOPOROSIS TOOL FOR HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS
Clipboard tool with algorithm helps diagnose and treat bone disease
Washington, DC—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. The tool provides current information on osteoporosis prevention and treatment and incorporates the latest clinical recommendations from the National Osteoporosis Foundation.
Osteoporosis affects 10 million Americans over the age of 50, and close to 34 million more have low bone mass which increases their risk for the disease. It is a disease which affects the bones, making them fragile and more likely to break. Fractures from osteoporosis most often occur in the hip, wrist, and spine. The good news is that osteoporosis can be prevented and treated. Fractures can even be prevented in individuals already diagnosed with the disease, especially if diagnosed early.
The Alliance’s 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.
This tool was supported by an educational grant from Roche and GlaxoSmithKline. To order the tool, download a free copy, or find additional materials on osteoporosis, visit the Alliance website at www.agingresearch.org or call 202.293.2856.
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Founded in 1986, the Alliance for Aging Research is a nonprofit, independent organization dedicated to improving the health and independence of aging Americans through public and private funding of medical research and geriatric education. The Alliance combines the interest of top scientists, public officials, business executives, and foundation leaders to promote a greater national investment in research and new technologies that will prepare our nation for the coming senior boom, and improve the quality of life for today’s older generation -
Brochure, Fact SheetOsteoporosis Prevention and Treatment: Algorithm and Resources for Health Care Professionals
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. -
Press ReleaseAward-Winning Alzheimer's Disease Workshop Kit Updated
AWARD-WINNING ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE WORKSHOP KIT UPDATED TO INCLUDE MORE RESOURCES FOR CAREGIVERS
New kit includes workbook to help caregivers make the most of their time
Washington, DC—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. This kit includes all of the resources necessary to conduct a workshop for caregivers of those recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Updates include information on treatment and research, as well as a brand new caregiver workbook.
The workbook provides the information, resources, and tools caregivers need to develop personalized action plans and to take better care of their loved ones and themselves. The workbook is interactive—prompting caregivers to think about important issues, acts as a place to store important information, and helps them be as efficient as possible.
More than five million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease, and there are nearly 10 million Americans caring for them. These caregivers are often unpaid and may also have other jobs and family responsibilities. This kit helps caregivers navigate through their many responsibilities and better understand the disease.
This Alzheimer’s caregiver kit was produced by the Alliance for Aging Research, and supported by an educational grant from Novartis. To obtain a copy of the kit or any of the kit resources (a Spanish version of the Caregiver Resources is available), visit the Alliance website at www.agingresearch.org or call 202-293-2856.
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Founded in 1986, the Alliance for Aging Research is a nonprofit, independent organization dedicated to improving the health and independence of aging Americans through public and private funding of medical research and geriatric education. The Alliance combines the interest of top scientists, public officials, business executives, and foundation leaders to promote a greater national investment in research and new technologies that will prepare our nation for the coming senior boom, and improve the quality of life for today’s older generation -
DocumentKey Phone Numbers Worksheet
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. -
DocumentClinical Trial Worksheet
While there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, there are drugs that may improve or stabilize symptoms. New drugs are also under development that offer hope for Alzheimer's patients, and clinical trials test whether these treatments are safe and effective. If you haven't already, you may want to consider enrolling your loved one in a clinical trial. This worksheet is a log that can help you keep track of clinical trials that you find. -
DocumentFinancial & Legal Checklist
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. -
DocumentHome Safety Checklist
Alzheimer's disease progresses differently in everyone, but eventually it will affect your loved one's independence. The typical home environment may become unfamiliar and dangerous, but there are steps you can take to make the home less stressful. Use this checklist to make sure that your loved one's residence is safe. -
DocumentMy Personal Schedule Worksheet
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. -
DocumentMedication List Worksheet
Your loved one may take many medications for Alzheimer's disease and other health conditions. Keeping track of them helps the health care team make sure the medications are working well together, and find possible drug interactions. You can use this medication list worksheet to keep all of the information about your loved one's medications in one place. -
DocumentHealth Care Appointment Worksheet
Taking your loved one to health care appointments may become difficult at times. If you prepare for appointments by writing down questions and scheduling the appointments at a good time for your loved one, you can make sure that the appointment goes as smoothly as possible. Use this worksheet to record information about the appointment so that it's all in one place. -
DocumentHealth Journal Worksheet
It's useful to keep a health journal so you can ensure that your loved one's health care team is able to provide the best care possible. By keeping track of day-to-day health information that only you may observe, you can provide valuable information to your loved one's health care team. A journal also makes it easy to record information about Alzheimer's disease and other conditions your loved one may have, so you can make the most of your time at appointments and be sure not to forget anything. -
BrochureAlzheimer's Disease: Helping Yourself Help a Loved One - Caregiver Workbook
This caregiver workbook provides the information, resources, and tools that caregivers need to develop personalized action plans and to take better care of their loved ones and themselves. The workbook includes worksheets, checklists, and other tools on important issues such as making your home safe, dealing with financial planning, and keeping a health journal. -
BrochureAlzheimer's Disease: Helping Yourself Help a Loved One - Caregiver Resources
As a family caregiver of someone with Alzheimer's, you have a lot on your plate. There's so much to learn about, so much to plan, and so much to worry about. This guide provides some of the many resources that can help you take care of your loved one, as well as yourself. -
BrochureAlzheimer's Disease: Helping Yourself Help a Loved One - Leader's Guide
This leader's guide helps facilitate a workshop to educate family caregivers on how to best care for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease while also taking care of themselves. This is an updated version of the Leader's Guide and includes the latest information on treatments and research. -
BrochureAlzheimer's Disease: Helping Yourself Help a Loved One - Workshop Kit
This kit includes all of the resources necessary to conduct a workshop for caregivers of those recently diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. It is an updated version of the Alliance's award-winning kit from 2006 and includes additional information on treatment and research, as well as a brand new caregiver workbook.
To order a FREE copy, call 202-293-2856 or e-mail info@agingresearch.org
Additional copies are available for $14.00 each. -
Alliance in the NewsCrisis of age requires cure
April 5, 2008 | Financial Times
Related topics: Aging Research Caregiving Geriatric Training Quality of Care"Funding geriatric medicine is just one area where philanthropy can make a big difference. To achieve wider impact, however, ageing needs to move from an orphan to a mainstream issue. More big funders also need to emerge as Atlantic and Reynolds are limited-life foundations, spending themselves out of business."
“The population numbers clearly point to older patients dominating the healthcare delivery in the US and most of the developed world but we have been rather phobic about geriatrics, geriatric medicine and ageing,” says Daniel Perry, executive director of the Alliance for Aging Research.
Read the Story -
Press ReleaseNew Tools Boost Alzheimer's Awareness
NEW TOOLS BOOST ALZHEIMER’S AWARENESS
Downloadable ‘pocket’ films help increase public understanding of a 21st century epidemic
Washington, DC – With the aging of the population, experts warn that Alzheimer’s disease will reach epidemic proportions by mid-century, creating massive and unsustainable burdens in terms of health care costs, overwhelmed families, and millions of lives tragically lost to a devastating disease.
If you’ve got questions about Alzheimer’s, A Quick Look at Alzheimer’s, a series of four animated ‘pocket’ films, just might have the answers you’re seeking. The short films, which run only two-three minutes each, are available for anyone at anytime, and are universally accessible—playable on iPods, cell phones, PDAs, laptops and DVD players. They are available for download from www.aboutalz.org, www.agingresearch.org, Google Video, YouTube or as a DVD.The pocket films were written and directed by David Shenk, author of the acclaimed book, The Forgetting and are narrated by Emmy- and Tony-award winning actor David Hyde Pierce. Designed to explain the essence of the disease and its public health implications in easy-to-understand terms, the films were developed by the Alliance for Aging Research through a grant from MetLife Foundation.
“We absolutely have to stop Alzheimer’s. As a nation, as an economy, as a civilization—we have to end it,” said David Shenk. “These films will help increase understanding of the disease, which will reduce stigma, improve care, and help strengthen the public fight to conquer this disease.”
Topics covered in the films are: What is Alzheimer’s Disease?, An Urgent Epidemic, The Race to the Cure and A Message for Patients and their Families. The films are designed to help individuals understand and explain the disease in layman’s terms, including doctors, nurses, caregivers, social workers, scientists, and others. By utilizing the latest technology and social media tools, they can easily be viewed practically everywhere—at home, at work, or in a doctor’s office.
“The looming threat of Alzheimer’s disease consuming the Baby Boomer generation urgently demands a national plan of action that involves government and the private sector,” said Daniel Perry, executive director of the Alliance for Aging Research. “We encourage everyone to view and share these films so that there is broad understanding of what is at stake.”
“We are committed to finding a cure for Alzheimer's. These pocket films will increase awareness and understanding of Alzheimer’s, its impact and the importance of research,” said Sibyl Jacobson, President, MetLife Foundation.
To help spread the word about the importance of the pocket films, a number of organizations have agreed to help promote and distribute A Quick Look at Alzheimer’s. These include the American Association of Geriatric Psychiatrists, American Nurses Association, Center for Neurodegenerative Disease Research and the Institute on Aging at the University of Pennsylvania, Gerontological Society of America, National Council on Aging, Older Women’s League, Research America!, RetireSafe, Society for Women’s Health Research and The Senior Center for Health and Security.
About MetLife Foundation
MetLife Foundation was established in 1976 by MetLife to carry on its long-standing tradition of corporate contributions and community involvement. The Foundation has been involved in a variety of aging-related initiatives addressing issues of caregiving, intergenerational activities, mental fitness and civic engagement. Since 1986, the Foundation has supported research on Alzheimer's disease through its Awards for Medical Research program and has contributed more than $10 million to efforts to find a cure. More information about the Foundation is available at www.metlife.org.
About The Alliance for Aging Research
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Founded in 1986, the Alliance for Aging Research is a nonprofit, independent organization dedicated to improving the health and independence of aging Americans through public and private funding of medical research and geriatric education. The Alliance combines the interest of top scientists, public officials, business executives, and foundation leaders to promote a greater national investment in research and new technologies that will prepare our nation for the coming senior boom, and improve the quality of life for today’s older generation -
Press ReleaseAlliance Offers Resource on Age-Related Macular Degeneration
ALLIANCE FOR AGING RESEARCH OFFERS RESOURCE ON AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION
Brochure provides the latest information on AMD diagnosis and treatment
Washington, DC—In order to further educate Americans about age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the Alliance for Aging Research has updated its popular brochure, Taking a Closer Look at Age-Related Macular Degeneration. The new brochure provides the latest information on AMD risk factors, prevention and detection of vision loss, and the importance of early diagnosis. The brochure includes the Amsler Grid—a convenient tool that can detect changes in vision due to AMD.
AMD is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss in Americans over the age of 65—about 1.75 million Americans have been diagnosed with the disease. It is a progressive eye disease that causes deterioration of the macula—the small, central part of the retina that allows us to see fine details. While AMD rarely causes total blindness, it often results in significant loss of central vision.
There is currently no cure for AMD; however, exciting advances have been made in understanding the disease. New treatment options that help slow the rate of vision loss have been discovered, and there is much hope for the future of AMD prevention and treatment.
The updated brochure contains information for those who have been diagnosed, as well as for those who wish to learn about prevention. In order to help prevent the disease or slow its progress, sections of the brochure focus on risk factors, nutritional tips, and eye exam information.
The materials for this campaign were produced by the Alliance for Aging Research and reviewed by scientists at the National Eye Institute. To obtain a free copy of the brochure or other materials on eye health, visit the Alliance website at www.agingresearch.org or call 202-293-2856.
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Founded in 1986, the Alliance for Aging Research is a nonprofit, independent organization dedicated to improving the health and independence of aging Americans through public and private funding of medical research and geriatric education. The Alliance combines the interest of top scientists, public officials, business executives, and foundation leaders to promote a greater national investment in research and new technologies that will prepare our nation for the coming senior boom, and improve the quality of life for today’s older generation -
BrochureTaking a Closer Look at Age-Related Macular Degeneration
This updated version of our popular brochure guides you through the latest information on age-related macular degeneration symptoms and risk factors, while offering ways to help you reduce your risk. The brochure also offers information on the latest research and treatment options. The widely used Amsler Grid can still be found on the back cover. -
Fact SheetA Quick Look At Alzheimer's- Outreach Partners
The following organizations are helping promote A QUICK LOOK AT ALZHEIMER'S: Four 'Pocket' Films to Increase Understanding of a 21st Century Epidemic: -
DVDA Quick Look at Alzheimer's: Four Pocket Films to Increase Understanding of a 21st Century Epidemic
These four short animated films explain the essence of the disease and its public health implications. They are designed to increase understanding in order to reduce stigma, improve care and help strengthen the public fight against this challenging disease.
The films are tools to help a wide variety of individuals understand and explain the disease: doctors, nurses, caregivers, family members, social workers, public health advocates, scientists, judges, attorneys and teachers. They can be viewed anywhere at anytime: a doctor's office, a Congressional hallway, a family living room. Anywhere a person can ask questions about Alzheimer's disease, here are some answers.
The films are made possible by a grant from MetLife Foundation. -
Press ReleaseAlliance Unveils Resource about Bone Disease
THE ALLIANCE FOR AGING RESEARCH UNVEILS NEW RESOURCE TO EDUCATE WOMEN ABOUT BONE DISEASE
“Standing Strong” Toolkit Available to Community Groups
Washington, DC -- The Alliance for Aging Research has developed a new resource to educate women about osteoporosis, also known as porous bone disease. The kit includes a leader's guide, an educational video and patient brochures and is designed to assist community groups in hosting workshops to educate older adults about the disease.
Osteoporosis poses a serious risk to older, post-menopausal women, although men can develop the disease. Other risk factors include a family history of osteoporosis, being thin or small framed, a diet low in calcium and vitamin D, smoking, and an inactive lifestyle. A woman’s risk of hip fracture from osteoporosis is the same as her combined risk of getting breast, uterine and ovarian cancer. In fact, one in three American women will have a spinal fracture due to the disease and one in six will fracture her hip.
The materials focus on effective communication between women and their health care professionals as a key factor in improving prevention, diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis, which is a silent disease. Many people don’t know they have it until they break a bone.
“Osteoporosis is a serious disease that affects millions of older women,” said Daniel Perry, executive director of the Alliance. “These women risk fractures of the spine, hip and other bones, causing pain and impaired mobility, and which can lead to loss of independence, or even death.”
The video features women of various ages who have recently been diagnosed with the disease and a leading medical expert. It includes helpful information on preventing and treating osteoporosis, as well as managing the disease and living a full and healthy life. The video looks at the risk factors, diagnosis by bone density testing, and prevention and treatment through diet, exercise and drug therapy. Novartis funded the toolkit through an unrestricted educational grant.
The toolkit, Standing Strong: Preventing and Treating Osteoporosis, includes a leader’s guide, DVD and 10 patient brochures. The toolkit costs $14.00. To order a copy, contact the Alliance for Aging Research at 202-293-2856. Materials, including the video, also may be accessed online at www.agingresearch.org.
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Founded in 1986, the Alliance for Aging Research is a nonprofit, independent organization dedicated to improving the health and independence of aging Americans through public and private funding of medical research and geriatric education. The Alliance combines the interest of top scientists, public officials, business executives, and foundation leaders to promote a greater national investment in research and new technologies that will prepare our nation for the coming senior boom, and improve the quality of life for today’s older generation -
BrochureStanding Strong:
Preventing and Treating Osteoporosis - Workshop Materials
In order to educate women recently diagnosed or at risk for osteoporosis about the disease, the Alliance for Aging Research created this workshop kit. The kits assist community and health groups in hosting workshops that teach women how to best manage their prevention and/or treatment, and empower them to communicate with their doctor. -
BrochureStanding Strong:
Preventing and Treating Osteoporosis - Leader's Guide
This leader's guide helps facilitate a workshop conducted by health care leaders, community outreach coordinators, etc.; and is aimed at women recently diagnosed with or at risk for osteoporosis. The workshop is designed to give participants a greater understanding of osteoporosis, its risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment. The information helps women to best manage the prevention and/or treatment of this disease, and empowers them to communicate with their doctor. This leader's guide may also be purchased as part of the larger Standing Strong: Preventing & Treating Osteoporosis - Workshop Kit. -
BrochureStanding Strong:
Preventing and Treating Osteoporosis
This brochure provides information on standing strong against an osteoporosis diagnosis including:
- Knowing your risk factors,
- Staying strong through prevention,
- Taking charge through diagnosis,
- Fighting back through treatment, and
- Being your own health advocate by learning more.
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Report2007 Annual Report
"20 Years of Progress - Imagine What's Next" is the theme of the Alliance for Aging Research's 2007 Annual Report. -
Alliance in the NewsSenior Health Care Issues
November 7, 2007 | Hosted by Congressman Tom Latham
Related topics: Aging Research Alzheimer's DiseaseCongressman Latham host a roundtable disucssion with experts on senior health care issues focusing on aging and Alzheimer's disease.
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Alliance in the NewsU.S. Rep. Latham: Iowans have access to cutting edge research on aging and Alzheimer's Disease
Iowa Congressman Latham shares his family's personal story of caring for his father as he graudally succumbed to Alzheimer's disease on the latest edition of his public affairs program, The Congressional Report.
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DocumentThe Burden and Future Implications of
Adult Visual Disorders in the United States
In an Alliance for Aging Research, National Alliance for Eye and Vision Research (NAEVR) joint briefing, David Rein, PhD, presented on the current economic burden of vision loss and the potential future impact. His slides are available here. -
DocumentAge-Related Maculopathy:
What it is, what we know, what we need to learn
In an Alliance for Aging Research, National Alliance for Eye and Vision Research (NAEVR briefing, Dr. Michael Gorin presented on age-related maculopathy, an eye disease that affects millions of Americans. His presentation slides are available here. -
DocumentFuture Perspectives on Diabetes: What can we do for seniors?
In the last of four briefings looking at the growing burden of chronic disease and the promise of medical innovation, Dr. William Rowley of The Institute for Alternative Futures, presented on Future Perspectives of Diabetes. His presentation slides are available here. -
DocumentThe Burden of Diabetes and the Promise of Biomedical Research
In the last of four briefings looking at the growing burden of chronic disease and the promise of medical innovation, Dr. John Anderson of the American Diabetes Association's National Advocacy Committee, presented on The Burden of Diabetes and the Promise of Biomedical Research. His presentation slides are available here. -
Press ReleaseAlliance Offers Online Resources for Healthy Aging and Longevity
ALLIANCE FOR AGING RESEARCH OFFERS ONLINE RESOURCES FOR HEALTHY AGING AND LONGEVITY
New and improved website spans personal health to policy issues
Washington, DC—The Alliance for Aging Research has launched a new and improved website, www.agingresearch.org, with a fresh new look, easier navigation, and new features that will help people stay informed about the latest information related to healthy aging and longevity.
“With the aging of the baby boomers, we see tremendous interest in aging research and healthy aging,” said Daniel Perry, executive director of the Alliance. “The Alliance’s revamped website is a wonderful resource for anyone who is interested in healthy aging and longevity, from individuals concerned about enhancing their own health to policymakers concerned about how to reduce the burgeoning cost of federal health programs,” said Perry.
Thanks to advances in medicine and science, leading edge baby boomers are entering their seventh decade with expectations for longer, healthier lives. Although longevity has increased, the majority of people over age 65 are afflicted by at least one chronic health problem, and chronic diseases account for 75 percent of all U.S. health care spending.
The burden of chronic disease will soon become a national economic crisis. In just over three years some 78 million baby boomers will begin to become the largest Medicare generation in history.
“We believe the aging of America offers an opportunity to embrace a new commitment and sense of urgency to advance biomedical research in our nation’s interest,” said Perry.
The Alliance’s redesigned site is a rich resource of information, health educational materials, policy papers and other materials about the latest discoveries in aging research, healthy aging and age-related diseases. New and enhanced features include:
- A “newsfeed,” which carries top news stories of the day related to aging research;
- Surveys and quizzes, including a free cognition test, a test on nutritional needs for older adults and a quiz regarding women and heart disease;
- Living Longer & Loving It, a free quarterly webzine that highlights the latest in aging research and which profiles inspiring individuals known as “Living Legends.” The current issue features an update on the fight to prevent and treat age-related eye disease and profiles 98-year-old Sally Gordon, sergeant-of-arms for the Nebraska State Legislature;
- A policy section, which showcases the Alliance’s position on a range of issues that affect aging research and healthy aging;
- A media area, which includes video, web casts and pod casts of Alliance events, and;
- Access to The Silver Book®, an online almanac of facts that focuses on the burden of chronic disease and the promise of innovation.
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Founded in 1986, the Alliance for Aging Research is a nonprofit, independent organization dedicated to improving the health and independence of aging Americans through public and private funding of medical research and geriatric education. The Alliance combines the interest of top scientists, public officials, business executives, and foundation leaders to promote a greater national investment in research and new technologies that will prepare our nation for the coming senior boom, and improve the quality of life for today’s older generation -
Press ReleaseResource Highlights Age-Related Eye Disease and Value of Innovation
NEW RESOURCE HIGHLIGHTS THE BURDEN OF AGE-RELATED EYE DISEASE AND UNDERSCORES THE VALUE OF INNOVATION
Washington, DC—The Alliance for Aging Research, in partnership with the National Alliance for Eye and Vision Research (NAEVR), released a new volume of The Silver Book®: Chronic Disease and Medical Innovation in an Aging Nation dedicated to age-related eye disease--The Silver Book®: Vision Loss. This volume was released at a Capitol Hill Briefing during Worldwide Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Awareness Week. The briefing was held in conjunction with AMD Alliance International, the Congressional Vision Caucus, and Prevent Blindness America.
As the U.S. population ages and the prevalence of chronic diseases increases, health care policymakers are searching for ways to curb spending. In order to promote national policies that encourage investments in innovation rather than short-term cost-cutting and health care rationing, in 2006 the Alliance for Aging Research launched The Silver Book: Chronic Disease and Medical Innovation in An Aging Nation, an almanac of compelling statistics that spotlight the mounting burden of chronic diseases and the promise of innovation in mitigating that burden. The original volume of The Silver Book focuses on cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and neurological diseases and has quickly become a trusted resource for health policy practitioners.
More than 38 million Americans age 40 and older are blind, visually impaired, or have an age-related eye disease. The economic impact of adult vision loss is also significant with the United States’ costs exceeding $51 billion—a huge share of the $68 billion annual cost of all vision impairment and eye disease in the U.S. The Silver Book: Vision Loss highlights this and other important data on the incidence and costs associated with AMD, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma—which along with cataract are the eye diseases that disproportionately affect older Americans. This volume also looks at the value of medical innovation in vision research. All of the data are cited with original sources and available on-line at www.silverbook.org/visionloss. The online version is a searchable database that is continuously updated as new information is published and that allows users to submit data.
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Founded in 1986, the Alliance for Aging Research is a nonprofit, independent organization dedicated to improving the health and independence of aging Americans through public and private funding of medical research and geriatric education. The Alliance combines the interest of top scientists, public officials, business executives, and foundation leaders to promote a greater national investment in research and new technologies that will prepare our nation for the coming senior boom, and improve the quality of life for today’s older generation
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The National Alliance for Eye and Vision Research (NAEVR) is a nonprofit advocacy coalition comprised of 55 professional, consumer, and industry organizations involved in eye and vision research. NAEVR’s goal is to achieve the best vision for all Americans through advocacy and public education for eye and vision research sponsored by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the National Eye Institute (NEI), and other federal research entities. Visit NAEVR’s web site at www.eyeresearch.org. -
Press ReleaseAlliance Honors Senators T. Cochran, K. Conrad; FDA's J. Woodcock
ALLIANCE FOR AGING RESEARCH HONORS SENATORS THAD COCHRAN, KENT CONRAD, FDA’S JANET WOODCOCK FOR ADVANCING HEALTHY AGING
Washington, D.C.—The Alliance for Aging Research, a non-profit organization that promotes scientific and medical research for healthier aging, honored Senator Thad Cochran (R-MS), Senator Kent Conrad (D-ND) and Dr. Janet Woodcock of the Food and Drug Administration with awards for advancing healthy aging through research. The Alliance presented the awards at its 14th Annual Bipartisan Congressional Awards Dinner on September 18, 2007, at the Willard Inter-Continental Hotel in Washington, DC.
Senator Cochran received the Connie Mack Award for Advancing Healthy Aging through Research. As Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Cochran wields considerable power on budget issues that impact health and aging programs at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). He is also a member of the bipartisan Congressional Prevention Coalition, formed in 1998 to educate Congress about disease prevention and health promotion strategies. Senator Cochran also has sponsored a number of health-related proposals that benefit older Americans.
Senator Conrad received the Claude Pepper Award for Advancing Healthy Aging through Research. He succeeded in changing Medicare payment rules, which resulted in increased payments to hospitals and providers who serve aging patients in remote areas. By making telemedicine widely available, Senator Conrad has increased patients’ access to cutting-edge medical care leading to earlier diagnoses that often reduce the need for more serious or expensive procedures.
Dr. Janet Woodcock, deputy commissioner & chief medical officer of FDA, was honored as the Indispensable Person of the Year for Health Research for her effective, innovative and ethical leadership of the agency. Dr. Woodcock leads FDA’s “Critical Path” Initiative, which is designed to improve the scientific basis for reviewing and approving new medical products. In addition, she has been the FDA’s point person for strategies to improve drug safety monitoring and for prioritizing Alzheimer’s drug development within the FDA.
The Alliance’s annual awards dinner brings together leaders from Congress, government agencies, private foundations and industry executives, scientists, researchers and consumer groups to celebrate leadership such as that of Senator Cochran, Senator Conrad and Dr. Woodcock, to improve the lives of older Americans.
[Note to editors and reporters: Photos of the honorees are available upon request.]
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Founded in 1986, the Alliance for Aging Research is a nonprofit, independent organization dedicated to improving the health and independence of aging Americans through public and private funding of medical research and geriatric education. The Alliance combines the interest of top scientists, public officials, business executives, and foundation leaders to promote a greater national investment in research and new technologies that will prepare our nation for the coming senior boom, and improve the quality of life for today’s older generation -
DocumentResearch Advances in Neurodegenerative Diseases
In the third of four briefings looking at the growing burden of chronic diseases and the promise of medical innovation, Dr. Growdon presented on Research Advances in Neurodegenerative Diseases: Alzheimer & Parkinson. His presentation slides are available here. -
DocumentThe Societal Burden of Alzheimer's Disease
In the third of four briefings looking at the growing burden of chronic disease and the promise of medical innovation, Jennifer Zeitzer of the Alzheimer's Association presented on The Societal Burden of Alzheimer's Disease. Her presentation slides are available here. -
ReportThe Silver Book: Chronic Disease and Medical Innovation--Vision Loss
The Silver Book is a unique almanac of references that the Alliance has compiled to spotlight the impact of chronic disease on our aging population and health care system, and the significant impact medical breakthroughs will have on future health care use and expenditures. The Vision Loss Volume looks at vision loss generally, and highlights data on age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma--which along with cataract are the eye diseases that disproportionately affect older Americans. -
Alliance in the NewsMedical curiosity? Not in this age
Centenarians the fastest-growing segment of the population.
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Press ReleaseAlliance for Aging Research Wins Two Mature Media Awards
August 8, 2007ALLIANCE FOR AGING RESEARCH WINS TWO AWARDS IN 2007 NATIONAL MATURE MEDIA AWARDS PROGRAM
Washington, DC—The Alliance for Aging Research was a winner in the 16th annual National Mature Media Awards Program, receiving a silver award for the Alzheimer’s Disease: Helping Yourself Help a Loved One workshop kit and a merit award for the 2006 Annual Report.
The workshop kit educates family caregivers on how to care for themselves while caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease. The kit includes a leader’s guide and DVD to assist community groups in hosting workshops for family caregivers.
“We are proud to be recognized for these materials and in particular, our efforts in providing family caregivers with tools and resources to cope with this disease,” said Daniel Perry, executive director of the Alliance.
The Alliance partnered with the National Family Caregivers Association to develop this resource guide, which was funded by a grant from MetLife Foundation.
The awards program, presented by the Mature Market Resource Center, a national clearinghouse for the senior market, recognizes the nation’s finest advertising, marketing and educational materials designed and produced for older adults. Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Merit awards were issued in 33 categories including, marketing communications, publications, audio and video, education/training programs, editorial and art/design. Nearly 1,000 entries were judged by a distinguished panel of mature market experts from across the United States.
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Founded in 1986, the Alliance for Aging Research is a nonprofit, independent organization dedicated to improving the health and independence of aging Americans through public and private funding of medical research and geriatric education. The Alliance combines the interest of top scientists, public officials, business executives, and foundation leaders to promote a greater national investment in research and new technologies that will prepare our nation for the coming senior boom, and improve the quality of life for today’s older generation -
Alliance ViewsWhere We Stand on Therapeutic Cloning - And Why
Spring 2002The Alliance for Aging Research believes all attempts to clone a human being are dangerous, unethical and wrong at this time. We believe just as strongly that, with appropriate guidelines, U.S. scientists should have the freedom to clone stem cells in laboratory dishes in an attempt to cure serious and life-threatening diseases. -
Fact Sheet20 Tips to Help Prevent Medical Errors From the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality
Winter 2002Medical errors are one of the Nation's leading causes of death and injury. A recent report by the Institute of Medicine estimates that as many as 44,000 to 98,000 people die in U.S. hospitals each year as the result of medical errors. This means that more people die from medical errors than from motor vehicle accidents, breast cancer, or AIDS. -
Alliance ViewsThe Importance of Aging Research
Fall 2004Consider this: In the year 1902, if it had been somehow possible to gather together everyone in America who had reached the age of 85 or older, that population would have scarcely made up a single Zip Code in today's Sun Belt. Today, the numbers of people age 85 and above, about 5 million Americans, will increase four-fold with the aging of the Baby Boom. People aged 100 or more - currently some 70,000 - will increase 10 times before we are halfway through this century. This demographic tsunami will affect every institution and every community, and will touch all of us personally. -
Living LegendDr. Edward Keller: The Write Stuff
Fall 2004Syrup sandwiches, homemade cottage cheese, sod houses, good times and bad - those are the things of which stories are made -
Living LegendBernice Gorell, The Polish Lady on Pulaski
Winter 2005Bernice Gorell recently missed a couple of days of work. The 93-year-old had cataract surgery on a Thursday and didn’t go back into her office until ... Monday. -
Feature ArticleCaught in the Act of Leading
Winter 2005Scientists searching for a way to delay the aging process may have found it in an intervention that many Americans battle with again and again—cutting calories. When used as a lifestyle choice, calorie restriction yields a significantly healthier and prolonged life. -
Alliance ViewsMedical Innovation: A Long-Term Vision
Spring 2006As the first members of the Baby Boom generation turn 60, a national dialogue is gaining momentum concerning the impact that our exploding senior demographics will have on our already over-burdened health care system. Our society is aging, living longer, and facing a new challenge of unprecedented levels of chronic disease. The public and policymakers are understandably worried about soaring health care costs and what the future will bring. -
Alliance ViewsImagine What's Next — In Pursuit of the Longevity Dividend
Fall 2006This month the Alliance for Aging Research celebrates the 20th anniversary of our founding as a not-for-profit organization working to increase support for research to extend the healthy years of life. Twenty years ago, the science of aging was at the bottom of medical research priorities and lacked prestige as an academic discipline. Of the 11 federal health research institutes at the time, the National Institute of Aging ranked 10th in terms of budget and only a handful of scientists around the world were engaged in aging research. Over the past two decades, aging research has gained respect and prominence, yet much remains to be done.
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Science in the SpotlightPersonalized Medicine Takes a Bow
Fall 2006In 1953, an American biochemist and a British physicist working together in Cambridge, England, identified the structure of DNA — the molecule of life — which passes genetic information from one generation to another. This discovery has unleashed an explosion of knowledge over the last half-century leading directly to the Human Genome Project and to the promise of personalized medicine.
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Get Mad ColumnDon't Outsource Stem-Cell Research
Fall 2006In July 2006, President George W. Bush used the first veto of his presidency to block a Congressional bill that would have lifted his 2001 ban on federal funding for most stem-cell research. In vetoing this legislation, Bush defied a bipartisan effort in Congress and the wishes of a majority of the American public. Nearly three-quarters of Americans support embryonic stem cell research, according to a May 2006 poll conducted by the Opinion Research Corporation.
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Feature ArticleHeart Disease: About Women, About You
Fall 2006More and more women are becoming aware of the dangers of heart disease. Unfortunately, too many still believe that only men need to be concerned about their hearts. In fact, heart disease is the number one killer of American women, making it about women, and about you.
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Living LegendProfessor Robert W. Fogel: A New Kind Of Historian
Fall 2006A startling change in the human species has taken place over the past 100 years, according to Nobel Laureate Robert W. Fogel, director of the Center for Population Economics and a professor in the Graduate School of Business at the University of Chicago. Fogel and his colleagues have found that people in industrialized countries are taller, heavier, and living dramatically longer than they did a century ago. In 1900, only 13 percent of 65-year-olds would live to 85. Today, nearly half will live that long. Moreover, chronic ailments like heart disease, lung disease and arthritis occur 10 to 25 years later in individuals today.
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Feature ArticleThe 15-Year Forecast for Aging!
Winter 2001Countless discoveries made in the 20th Century have benefited us in ways too numerous to count - our longevity being but one of the many, with about 30 years added to our life spans since 1900.
The recent tools of regenerative medicine and stem cell biology have many believing we are on the threshold of finding cures for devastating diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, heart disease, cancer and diabetes.
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Get Mad ColumnCMS Should Maintain Focus on Prevention
Winter 2006The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is the federal agency that administers Medicare, Medicaid, and related programs, to ensure that beneficiaries are aware of health care services and that these services are accessible. CMS' mission includes a commitment to policies and actions that promote efficiency and quality in health care delivery.
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Alliance ViewsIncreased Funding Critical to FDA's Success
Winter 2006As the nation's foremost consumer protection agency, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, (FDA) serves a critical role, safeguarding not only prescription and non-prescription drugs, but also medical devices, dietary supplements, animal drugs and feeds, and the nation's food supply.
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Feature ArticleInnovation Helps Cancer Patients Live Longer
Winter 2006New drugs and other treatments for cancer are helping more Americans survive the disease, even as it affects an increasing number of people, a trio of experts said at a briefing in Washington, D.C., in October.
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Living LegendRuth Colley - Re-living a Dream: Going for the Gold
Winter 2006Seven years ago, Ruth Colley had the opportunity to re-live her dream when Olympic gold medalist Frank Havens invited her to compete in the 1998 Nike World Masters Games. Colley was the first American woman to qualify for the United States Olympic Kayak team for the 1952 Helsinki games. Unfortunately, because she was the only woman to qualify for the 10-person team, she never got the opportunity to compete.
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Science in the SpotlightSteps to Brain Fitness
Winter 2006There is a lot we can do to keep our brains healthy and potentially prevent or lessen the cognitive decline that often comes with aging. The Alliance for Aging Research and the Brain Resource Company have teamed up to bring information and resources on brain health to the public and to provide the WebNeuro test, a cognitive assessment that can be taken on personal computers, free to the first one million users.*
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Living LegendClifford Ashley: World Traveler Continues His Adventures in the Classroom
Spring 2007At age 85, Clifford Ashley continues to lead an active lifestyle, which he attributes in large part to his work with kids. Working as a substitute teacher for the past eight years in Lake Placid, N.Y., Ashley teaches children from kindergarten through 12th grade. Whether substituting as a first grade teacher in computer class, or calculus for seniors, to any other subject imaginable, Ashley has no problem keeping up.
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Science in the SpotlightFolic Acid: Boost for your Brain?
Spring 2007Want to boost your memory and brain power? Eat more strawberries and asparagus. Both are good sources of folic acid, a vitamin that improved memory and cognition in healthy adults 50-70 years old, according to a study reported in the medical journal Lancet (Jan. 20, 2006).
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Alliance ViewsHigh Quality Health Care from Home
Spring 2007Living with chronic illness is time-consuming and costly. Frequent (or unnecessary) trips to the doctor's office or emergency room take a toll, not just physically, but emotionally and socially as well. With an aging population and chronic diseases on the rise, the ability of the health care system to effectively cope is threatened. But a promising new technology can ease the burden on both health care facilities and patients and improve the quality of life for elderly Americans living with conditions such as diabetes, heart failure, and cardiac arrhythmia.
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Feature ArticleA Different Kind of 'Food Pyramid' for Better Health
Spring 2007A food that grants youth and immortality is an ancient dream celebrated in myth. The Greek gods ate ambrosia, which conferred grace or immortality. To stay young forever, the Norse gods ate the golden apples of Idun.
Now in the 21st century, science tells us that a healthy diet is important to insuring a long and healthy life. But just what makes for a healthy diet? We are inundated by conflicting nutritional advice.
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Alliance in the NewsTrain your brain
Memory problems of aging can be lessened or prevented with mental workouts, diet and exercise.
Read the Story -
Get Mad ColumnMake Health IT a National Priority
Spring 2007Clinical trials - the current gold standard for testing the effectiveness and safety of various drugs and medical treatments - are often performed on young, low-risk subjects, making their relevance questionable for a growing population of older patients living with multiple chronic conditions.
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Press ReleaseAlliance Commends Senate Committee for Increase in FDA Funding
ALLIANCE FOR AGING RESEARCH COMMENDS SENATE COMMITTEE FOR INCREASE IN FDA FUNDING
Washington, DC—The Alliance for Aging Research today commends the Senate Agriculture, Rural Development, FDA and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee for including a $186 million increase for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in its Fiscal Year 2008 appropriations bill. This increase over the Agency’s Fiscal Year 2007 funding level will begin to reverse the budget shortfalls it has experienced in recent years.
The Alliance is particularly pleased with the emphasis placed on sustaining the FDA’s Critical Path Initiative. The $22.9 million set aside for Critical Path will allow for better evaluation and delivery of breakthrough treatments to patients suffering from a host of age-related diseases and conditions including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and arthritis. It also will enable the FDA to more accurately gauge the safety and efficacy of new therapies and technologies in the future.
Beginning in 2011, America’s Baby Boomers start to become the largest Medicare generation in history. If this generation ages with the same incidence of chronic health problems as today’s elderly, their burden of disease will cripple the health care system. “It is critical that policymakers make a serious commitment to reinvesting in the FDA now,” said Daniel Perry, executive director of the Alliance for Aging Research. “We applaud Chairman Kohl and Ranking Member Bennett’s efforts on behalf of the FDA and believe that their continued leadership will help ensure the health and well-being of our aging population.”
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Founded in 1986, the Alliance for Aging Research is a nonprofit, independent organization dedicated to improving the health and independence of aging Americans through public and private funding of medical research and geriatric education. The Alliance combines the interest of top scientists, public officials, business executives, and foundation leaders to promote a greater national investment in research and new technologies that will prepare our nation for the coming senior boom, and improve the quality of life for today’s older generation -
Alliance in the NewsIs Nevada ready for the aging boom? It's coming quickly
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Alliance in the NewsFilling the needs of older patients
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Alliance in the NewsThe Right Cure for Ailing Elder Care?
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ReportGray is the New Gold: Longevity Science and the Flourishing Aging Society
Vigorous Seniors Good for Economy, Social Security, Says New KLRI Report
What are the latest developments in longevity research and why are they important to society and national policy? Alliance Executive Director Daniel Perry is among the experts cited in this new report, which explains the need for and benefits of aging research. Read the Kronos Longevity Research Institute's new report, Gray Is the New Gold: Longevity Science and the Flourishing Aging Society, available on the KLRI website. -
Alliance in the NewsAnalysis: A fast track for Alzheimer's?
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Press KitAlliance Press Kit
2007This press kit provides background information on the Alliance. -
Press ReleaseNational Campaign to Help Older Americans Manage Medicines
CONSUMER HEALTH EDUCATION CENTER LAUNCHES NATIONAL CAMPAIGN TO HELP OLDER AMERICANS MANAGE MEDICINES
Washington, D.C.—The Consumer Health Education Center (CHEC) is launching a national education campaign to help mature Americans better manage their health, specifically regarding the over-the-counter (OTC) medicines they take. There are more than 100,000 over-the-counter medicines on the market today and those aged 60 and over use more than one third of all OTCs purchased.
“The goal of CHEC’s outreach efforts is to help older consumers maintain their health by giving them the information they need to safely and responsibly use their medications,” says Linda Sudyam, D.P.A., president of CHEC. CHEC’s campaign includes seminars across the country, each of which features a local pharmacist to answer questions and provide simple tips for the safe use of OTC medicines. “All consumers need to play an active role in all their personal healthcare decisions, which includes becoming informed about their medications, both prescription and over-the-counter.”
According to a recent survey sponsored by CHEC and the not-for-profit Alliance for Aging Research, 30 percent of older Americans use two to four OTC medicines in a given month. In addition, they also take an average three prescription medications each month. The study of 1,000 60- to 75-year-olds also found that nearly two out of every three seniors are confident that they understand the Drug Facts label on OTC medicines. And while almost 80 percent say they are very likely to follow the recommended dose, some do not pay attention to the active ingredients in their medicines. “This is very concerning, especially given the number of medicines this age group takes,” says Suydam. “Often times, different medicines contain the same active ingredients, and taking too much of an active ingredient can cause side effects.”
“Taking several medications at one time can increase a person’s risk for unwanted reactions,” says Daniel Perry, executive director of the Alliance for Aging Research. “It is important that consumers know how to read their medicine labels and that they consult a healthcare professional with any questions they may have regarding any of their medications and possible interactions.”
Suydam adds that all consumers should follow seven simple steps to ensure they are taking OTCs safely and appropriately.
- Always read and follow the Drug Facts label.
- Never take more than one medicine with the same active ingredient unless instructed by a doctor.
- Choose products that only treat the symptoms you have.
- Talk to a doctor if taking an OTC becomes more than a temporary practice or if symptoms do not go away.
- Create a list of all the medicines you take and share your list with your healthcare professionals.
- Tell your healthcare professional about your full medical history and diet.
- Bring any questions you have to your healthcare professional, such as your doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, or pharmacist.
CHEC is scheduled to visit several cities over the year and will make all materials available at www.CHECchecforbetterhealth.org so that senior centers may download the presentation for use with their guests and visitors.
For a complete copy of the survey, please contact Kim Atwood at 212-537-8143.
About CHEC
The Consumer Health Education Center (CHEC) is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of Americans through appropriate, safe, and effective over-the-counter medicine use. CHEC was launched in 2005 as the consumer education arm of the Consumer Healthcare Products Association, a member-based organization representing the leading manufacturers and distributors of OTC medicines and nutritional supplements in the United States. CHEC is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization.
About the Alliance for Aging Research
Founded in 1986, the Alliance for Aging Research is a not for profit, independent organization dedicated to improving the health and independence of aging Americans through public and private funding of medical research and geriatric education. The Alliance combines the interests of top scientists, public officials, business executives and foundation leaders to promote a greater national investment in research and new technologies that will prepare our nation for the coming senior boom, and improve the quality of life for today's older generation.
Survey Methodology
The survey was conducted by Opinion Research among 1,001 adults comprising 480 men and 521 women 60-75 years of age from January 24 to February 12, 2007. -
Report2007 Task Force Report on Aging Research Funding
April 2007 | Alliance for Aging Research
Related topics: Aging Research Alzheimer's Disease Arthritis Cancer Cardiovascular Disease Caregiving Chronic Pain Diabetes Federal Funding Geriatric Training Health Incontinence Medical Innovation Men's Health Mental Health Osteoporosis Other Diseases of Aging Parkinson's Disease Prevention Stroke Vision Loss Women's HealthThe 2007 Task Force on Aging Research Funding--more than 85 non-partisan disease groups, patient advocates, and foundations--urges Congress and the President to chart a better course for medical research on behalf of America's aging population. This year's report of the Task Force calls for a 6.7% increase in funding for the National Institutes of Health in FY 2008. It also presents data on the burden of 27 diseases and conditions that predominately affect older Americans, highlights some of the exciting work the NIH is doing to decrease these burdens, and serves as a resource for policymakers working to establish the funding levels necessary to advance healthy aging. -
Press ReleaseAlliance Launches Malnutrition Awareness Campaign
THE ALLIANCE FOR AGING RESEARCH LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN TO INCREASE AWARENESS ABOUT MALNUTRITION IN OLDER ADULTS
Washington, D.C. – In an effort to increase awareness about malnutrition in older adults, the Alliance for Aging Research has launched a new campaign – Malnutrition & Seniors: A Hidden Threat. With support from Novartis Medical Nutrition, the Alliance is reaching out to physicians and consumers to educate them on the huge impact malnutrition can have on the health and independence of older Americans.
An estimated 3.7 million older American