UNCG, WFU Look at Fighting Memory Loss with Brain Exercise

By Dan Nonte, University Relations

Contact: (336) 334-4314
Posted 11-4-09

GREENSBORO, N.C. — UNCG and Wake Forest University School of Medicine have begun a study to investigate the effectiveness of mentally stimulating activities, also known as “brain fitness,” for older adults with early stage Alzheimer’s or mild memory loss.

Supported by a $200,000 grant from the Alzheimer’s Association, the three-year study is led by Dr. Linda Buettner, a professor of recreation therapy and gerontology in UNCG’s Department of Recreation, Tourism, and Hospitality Management, and Dr. Kaycee Sink, an assistant professor in the WFU School of Medicine. Their previous work indicates that a specific therapy program can significantly improve functioning for older people with memory loss.

The research team will deliver two different types of therapy sessions over a period of 12 weeks. The first round of the project will begin in January in four locations. During the three years, 120 participants in North Carolina, Florida and New York will be recruited to take part. The sessions will be free and participants will receive expert assessment throughout the project.

The Alzheimer’s Association reports as many as 5.3 million older people in the U.S. are living with memory disorders. The association says Alzheimer’s and related disorders cost Medicare, Medicaid and businesses more than $148 billion each year.

“With no cure for these memory disorders and a growing number of older adults, finding cost-effective therapy is critically important,” Buettner says. “This program could help people maintain the highest level of functioning possible.”

The project will evaluate the type of community-based program recommended this year by the U.S. Senate Alzheimer’s Study Group. (Click here for a PDF of the group's recommendations) The brain fitness therapy program could be offered in senior centers, recreational therapy settings, the homes of older adults with memory loss and elsewhere, and could offer a cost-effective and fun way to promote brain exercise while staying active.

Specifically, the intervention aims to fight apathy, a lack of interest in activities and one’s surroundings. One of the first symptoms of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, apathy contributes to a rapid decline in independence, social engagement and physical skills. Based on the “use it or lose it” concept, the researchers hope to stimulate untapped areas or brain reserve during treatment sessions.