Summer 2026

Understanding the Cascade of Alzheimer’s Disease: Why Early Detection Matters
Alzheimer’s disease does not begin when memory problems first appear. In fact, changes in the brain can develop quietly for many years before symptoms become noticeable. Researchers are learning more about how Alzheimer’s disease unfolds over time, and this knowledge is helping doctors identify the best opportunities for treatment and prevention.
At the 2026 International Conference on Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Diseases, Dr. Bart De Strooper of the Catholic University of Leuven, Belgium, described Alzheimer’s disease as a series of stages, or a “cascade” of changes, that gradually affect the brain. Understanding these stages helps explain why early diagnosis is so important and why different treatments may work best at different points in the disease process.

Summer 2026
In This Issue
Phase 1: Amyloid Begins to Build Up
The earliest known change in Alzheimer’s disease is the accumulation of a “sticky” protein called amyloid. Over time, amyloid forms plaques that collect between brain cells. Many people can have amyloid in their brains for years without noticing any symptoms. While amyloid alone may not cause memory problems, it appears to set the stage for the changes that follow.
Phase 2: The Brain Responds
As amyloid plaques accumulate, the brain’s immune system begins to react. This response can trigger inflammation and other changes that affect the health of brain cells. Researchers now believe that the brain’s response to amyloid may be just as important as the plaques themselves. Genetic factors that increase a person’s risk for Alzheimer’s disease may influence how strongly the brain reacts during this stage.
Phase 3: Tau Changes Begin
Another protein called tau normally helps support the structure of brain cells. In Alzheimer’s disease, tau begins to break down and form abnormal tangles. Scientists are still working to understand exactly how amyloid leads to tau changes, but evidence suggests that as brain cells become stressed and damaged, tau tangles are more likely to develop.
Phase 4: Tau Changes Spread Through the Brain
Once tau tangles appear, they spread from one brain cell to another, moving through brain networks. Many researchers believe that the progression of abnormal tau in the brain is closely linked to the eventual progression of cognitive symptoms like memory loss, word finding difficulties, getting lost, or becoming confused.
Phase 5: Brain Cells Die
As abnormal tau continues to increase, brain cells begin to die, reducing the brain’s ability to communicate effectively. As more cells are lost, the brain becomes less able to compensate for the damage.
Phase 6: Symptoms Become Noticeable
Studies show that by the time Alzheimer’s disease becomes really noticeable, significant numbers of brain cells have already been lost.
Why Early Detection Matters
One of the most important messages from this research is that timing matters. Treatments are often most effective before extensive brain damage has occurred. Some newer therapies are designed to reduce amyloid buildup, but they may have limited benefit if started too late, once large numbers of brain cells have already been lost.
Researchers believe there may be several critical opportunities to slow or prevent disease progression, and are working to find treatments that are effective:
- Before significant amyloid accumulation occurs
- Before tau pathology spreads through the brain
- Before large numbers of brain calls die
What This Means for Our Community
For individuals and families, the key takeaway is that brain health should not be ignored. Changes in memory, thinking, language, or daily functioning deserve attention. Early evaluation can help identify treatable conditions, provide access to appropriate therapies, and create opportunities to participate in emerging treatments and research.
Just as we monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes to protect heart health, paying attention to changes in memory and thinking is an important part of protecting brain health. The earlier concerns are recognized, the more options may be available. Early awareness, early evaluation, and early action can make a difference.

Could Better Sleep Protect Your Brain?

Most of us know that a poor night’s sleep can leave us feeling tired, irritable, and off our game the next day. But growing research suggests that chronic sleep problems may have a much bigger impact, potentially affecting brain health for years to come.
A recent Mayo Clinic study found that older adults with chronic insomnia were significantly more likely to develop memory and thinking problems over time. Researchers observed that people with persistent insomnia had a 40% higher risk of developing mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia compared with those who slept well.
What Is Chronic Insomnia?
Chronic insomnia is more than an occasional restless night. It is defined as difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early at least three nights per week for three months or longer.
In the Mayo Clinic study, researchers followed nearly 3,000 cognitively healthy older adults for more than five years. About 16% of participants met criteria for chronic insomnia.
What Did They Find?
Over the course of the study, 14% of participants with chronic insomnia developed mild cognitive impairment or dementia, compared with 10% of those without insomnia. That means participants with chronic insomnia were 40% more likely to develop cognitive problems than participants with normal sleeping patterns.
Overall, participants with chronic insomnia experienced declines in thinking abilities that were comparable to having a brain age that was about 4 years older than their actual age (e.g., a 70-year-old with chronic insomnia performed like a 74 year-old on cognitive tests!).
Brain imaging revealed other concerning findings. Individuals with chronic insomnia showed greater:
- Build-up of amyloid plaques, which is a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease.
- Small blood vessel disease, which can damage brain tissue and make you slower in your thinking abilities.
Why Sleep Matters for Brain Health
Scientists believe sleep serves as the brain’s nightly maintenance period. During sleep, the brain clears waste products, strengthens important memories, and restores the connections that support thinking and learning.
When sleep is disrupted night after night, these processes may not work as effectively. Over many years, poor sleep may contribute to changes in the brain that increase the risk of cognitive decline.

While insomnia does not necessarily cause dementia, this research suggests that persistent sleep problems may be an important warning sign, and a modifiable risk factor, for future brain health.
Taking sleep concerns seriously is one more way we can invest in long-term brain health. If you regularly have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or feel tired despite spending enough time in bed, consider discussing your symptoms with your healthcare provider. Effective treatments are available, and addressing sleep problems early may help protect both your quality of life and your cognitive health.
Tips for Better Sleep
The following healthy sleep habits can reduce insomnia and improve overall well-being:
- Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, including weekends.
- Stay physically active during the day.
- Limit or avoid daytime naps.
- Reduce caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol, especially in the evening.
- Avoid large meals and excessive fluids close to bedtime.
- Keep your bedroom quiet, dark, and comfortable.
- Reserve the bedroom for sleep and intimacy rather than television or work.
- Develop a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading, listening to calming music, or taking a warm bath.
The Bottom Line
Good sleep is not a luxury. It is an important part of maintaining a healthy brain. Paying attention to sleep problems today may help protect memory, thinking, and quality of life in the years ahead. One of the best things you can do for your brain may be as simple as getting a good night’s sleep.

Florida Launches New Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Initiative

There is encouraging news for Florida families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. State lawmakers recently approved legislation creating a statewide Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Initiative, designed to improve education, outreach, and access to reliable information and support services. Information provided through the program will be based on current scientific research and national best practices.
What Will the Initiative Provide?
The program will include a statewide website and educational resources covering topics such as:
- Early detection diagnosis
- Brain health and healthy aging
- Risk reduction strategies
- New research and treatment developments
- Available community resources and support services
- Information for family caregivers
The initiative will also support educational efforts for healthcare professionals in partnership with the Florida Department of Health.
Reaching Communities Across Florida
A particularly important feature of the legislation is its focus on increasing awareness in communities that have historically had less access to information and services. The initiative will include public education campaigns and a statewide mobile outreach program designed to bring information directly into underserved communities.
This approach recognizes that many families may not know where to turn when concerns about memory loss or dementia arise and that access to trustworthy information is essential for early diagnosis and treatment.
Why This Matters
More than 580,000 Floridians are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease, and many more family members serve as caregivers. Increasing public awareness can help individuals recognize the early signs of cognitive decline, seek evaluation sooner, and connect with valuable resources and support services. Expanding education, outreach, and access to reliable information can help ensure that more individuals and families receive the support they need.
Knowledge is power. Understanding the signs of dementia, learning ways to support brain health, and knowing where to find help are important steps toward healthier communities and healthier brains.

Mayo Clinic ADRC Investigators Honored for Advances in Dementia Research
Two Mayo Clinic researchers were recently recognized for their important contributions to understanding tau-related neurodegenerative diseases, a group of brain disorders in which an abnormal form of the protein tau accumulates in the brain. Tau buildup is a key feature of several conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease and certain forms of frontotemporal dementia.
Drs. Dennis Dickson and Melissa Murray lead research efforts to better understand how these diseases begin and progress over time. They were honored at the Tau Global Conference in Washington, D.C., for their work in helping develop more accurate diagnostic tools and identifying new targets for future treatments.
Together, they oversee the Mayo Clinic Brain Bank, one of the largest collections of brain tissue for neurological research in the world. The Brain Bank contains more than 11,000 donated brain samples and supports research collaborations across the globe. By studying these samples, scientists can better understand the biological changes that occur in dementia and other neurological disorders. Each discovery moves us one step closer to earlier diagnosis, better treatments, and ultimately the prevention of these devastating diseases.
The Gift of Brain Donation
Many of the advances in Alzheimer’s and dementia research have been made possible by individuals and families who chose to donate brain tissue for research. Brain donation helps scientists better understand how these diseases develop, identify new treatment targets, and improve diagnosis for future generations. African American and Hispanic community participation is especially important, as these groups have historically been underrepresented in brain research despite experiencing a greater burden of dementia. Representation helps ensure that future discoveries, treatments, and prevention strategies benefit the community for generations to come.


Meet a Community Champion
Doria T. Putman, ARNP

Doris Putman has been a community ambassador to the Mayo Clinic Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center for nearly 10 years. She helps plan and participates in community events, has been featured in educational videos on memory loss and dementia, and has generously shared the knowledge and skill she acquired from her extensive background in nursing and public health. We are grateful for her dedication and have asked her to share more about herself with our readers.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I was born in the country in a small town known as Fitzgerald, Ga.to parents of the Slave Era. My dad owned 40 acres of land that supplied all our basic food needs. As a child, I thought we had everything. Farming was a way of life, and I never thought much of the hard work involved. I went to school each day and returned home to work until "sundown".
How did you become interested in nursing?
During the Christmas holidays, my dad would go in the forest get a pine tree and decorate it with little bags of nuts from our many trees and put a candy cane on it. What a lot of fun for us. One year, one of my older sisters delivered toys for us. My gift was a baby doll and I gave that baby doll tender loving care.
That was the moment I knew I wanted to become a nurse. The sister that gave me the baby doll was living in Jacksonville, Florida, and that is how I got to be a resident of this city.
What was your path to becoming a nurse?
I finished High School at age 16, too young to register for Nursing School, so I registered for college. I was admitted to Edward Waters, College, which was a two-year college at the time. That was all the time I needed before applying to Brewster School of Nursing. I graduated as a Nurse three years later with the honor of being named "The Most Likely to Succeed". I took and passed the Florida State Board of Nursing Exam.
What can you tell us about the Brewster School of Nursing?
Brewster Hospital was the only private hospital in the city where a Black person could go for private medical care. It was founded in 1901 as the George A. Brewster Hospital and School of Nurse Training., when there was no place for Black people to go after the disastrous Great Fire of 1901. The hospital operated until 1966.
At that time, people who could not afford private care went to the county hospital, Duval Medical Center (DMC), which is now UF Health. When I earned my nursing degree, there were no open positions at Brewster Hospital, so I applied to DMC. It was my first job after leaving the farm
and where I learned how to live the city life. The following year, I moved to New Jersey and worked there for three years before returning to Jacksonville, where I took a nursing position at Baptist Hospital.
What about your personal life?
In 1966, I married my husband, Herbert Putman, and we had one child, a son. The pregnancy was difficult and, after recovering, I took a position as a Public Health Nurse with the Duval County Public Health Department.
What was it like working for the Health Department?
This position gave me the opportunity to attend a state college free. I earned a Certificate of Gerontology from the University of Tampa and graduated with a master's degree in health administration from the University of North Florida.
Durning my years at the Health Department, I became an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner, Chairperson for the Florida Public Health Nurses Association Florida and retired as Assistant Director of Public Health Nursing for Duval County after 35 years. I loved Nursing for all those years.
What are you doing now that you are retired from nursing and public health administration?
I am a long-time member of the Bethel Baptist Church in downtown Jacksonville where i taught Sunday School, was an active member of the Healthy Bethel Ministry, worked with the Culinary Ministry and Diaconate Ministry of which I currently Co-Chair. I am a active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Gamma Rho Chapter here in the city for 44 years.
How did you become involved in the Mayo Clinic Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center’s (ADRC) Ambassadors group?
Alzheimer's Disease did not escape my family. I had a sister and brother both diagnosed with this disease. My spouse died 13 years ago with a diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease. I was his caregiver for seven years, and he spent the last two years of life in Nursing Homes. After his death, I donated his brain for research so that we could learn more about Alzheimer’s and help find better treatments for it.
Nearly 10 years ago, my good friend, Mrs. Estelle McKissick, had become involved in an advisory group of Mayo Clinic dementia researchers who wanted to work more effectively in partnership with the community. She invited me to attend an advisory board meeting, as she thought it would be of interest and help me to understand the disease a little better. I enjoyed the meeting and the opportunity to help share my experience to promote awareness and resource information about this disease. I still enjoy this work today, participating in Community Education and Awareness activities and events.
What has your experience as an Ambassador been?
Being a member of the ADRC Community Ambassador group has increased my knowledge and awareness of people and families in our communities suffering from a disease that has no cure at the present time. I appreciate knowing about all the things we can do to promote healthier brain aging, encouraging people to get evaluated, informing the community about new treatments that become available, and supporting caregivers through their journey.
I have learned a lot about Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, and that has been valuable to me when talking with members of the community who are noticing loved ones with memory loss or personality changes. I feel confident talking with them, offering support, and sharing information. I also like being involved in an active group that learns about the methods and benefits of clinical research, and the value of diverse representation in research studies. It makes me hopeful for the future.
Anything else you would like to share?
Community involvement has been a part of my life’s journey, It helps my mental stability as my physical abilities decreases. I hope to continue to participate and contribute for many years to come.
Meet an ADRC Team Member
Sylvia B. Grant, CCRP

For more than 25 years, Sylvia Grant has been a trusted community presence, a familiar face, and a dedicated member of the Mayo Clinic Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center.
For many years, Sylvia could be found at the Mary Singleton Senior Center in downtown Jacksonville, providing free memory and thinking evaluations as part of an ADRC research project on aging and dementia. Over 300 community residents participated in that project, many of whom continue to participate in annual evaluations to track their brain health over time.
Sylvia is a Jacksonville native. She was born at the Naval Air Station, as her father was in the US Army. She graduated from Fletcher High School in Neptune Beach and then moved to California, where she graduated from California State College – Chico.
In November 1999, Sylvia moved back to Jacksonville and began working in the clinical laboratory at Mayo Clinic, Florida. She transferred to the ADRC in 2001. She feels that “Research is important in so many areas! For us Baby Boomers in our 60’s, memory research is very important. Alzheimer’s Disease must be stopped. Everyone should be made aware of this memory robber and help contribute to finding a cure.”
Sylvia finds joy in the research she coordinates because of the many participants from all walks of life that she meets and interacts with. She understands the value of the gift of time and effort that participants generously give to be a part of studies that help us understand and treat Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia. “My goal is to try to accommodate these participants in a manner that least interrupts their usual routine. I want them to know and feel that I am here to help them through the research process, as are my fellow study coordinators”.
When not taking care of study participants, Sylvia has raised a family of three children, of whom she could not be prouder. She is the proud grandmother of four grandchildren who she loves taking on outings, from the library to skating to indoor theme parks. She also loves the big screen and the smell of theater popcorn popping. “I also spend time in Bible study and have a great time with members there,” she says. She is also learning to speak Portuguese! “It is a beautiful and difficult language. But I have learned that learning a new language is one way to help keep your mind sharp as you get older. I hope it works in my favor!”

What’s Cooking?
By Dr. Anni-Shandera-Ochsner
It’s officially summer! In many areas of the country, this means warm weather and an appreciation for lighter, fresh-tasting meals. Foods from the Mediterranean Diet tick all these boxes and help maintain a healthy brain as well. This month’s recipe brings you plenty of vegetables, lean protein from fish, healthy fats from olive oil, and a rich supply of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients.

Mediterranean FIsh Fillets
Ingredients
- 2 large tomatoes, cored and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed
- 1 1/2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup reduced-fat feta cheese
- 1 medium Zucchini trimmed and thinly sliced into rounds
- 4 white fish fillets (4 ounces each)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt-free lemon pepper seasonins blend
Directions
- Set the best 4 tomato slices aside. Chop the remaining tomatoes into small cubes. Place the tomato cubes into a bowl and add the onion, capers, balsamic vinegar, olive oil and feta cheese. Stir to mix.
- Place the oven rack in the upper position and heat broiler to high. Line two rimmed baking sheets with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Place zucchini rounds in a single layer on one baking sheet and fish fillets on the other sheet. Spray the top sides with cooking spray.
- Place the zucchini under the broiler for about 1 minute. Turn and season with half the lemon pepper. Broil for another minute and move the baking sheet to the bottom of the oven to keep warm.
- Place the fish fillets under the broiler for about 3 minutes. Turn and continue broiling until the fillets spring back to light pressure, about 3 to 6 minutes. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of the fillets. Season with the remaining lemon pepper.
- Place 1 slice of tomato on each of four plates. Arrange zucchini in an overlapping circle on top of the tomatoes. Place a fish fillet on the zucchini and top with the diced tomato mixture.

Caregiver Corner

Road Trips, Reunions, and Memory Loss: Summer Travel Made Easier
Often the summer months bring opportunities for travel. Travel plans might include visiting relatives for a much-awaited family reunion, a trip for adventure, or a quick weekend getaway. When traveling with a loved one who has dementia, it is important to plan accordingly for a less stressful experience.
Time management
Stay aware of times of day when your loved one with memory loss might become more confused, tired, or agitated. Whenever possible, plan travel departures and arrivals to avoid these difficult times of day. Be prepared for travel interruptions by bringing some healthy snacks and activities that can pass the time and lift everyone’s spirits while they wait out the delay.
Be realistic and do not overload the schedule. Trying to fit too much can be exhausting and overwhelm your loved one. If you plan to visit tourist attractions, museums, sporting events or other places that can get crowded, consider arriving at a time when the crowds might be lighter – typically soon after opening or later in the day before closing.
Think ahead about whether a wheelchair might be a good idea, as this can be a time-saver at busy airports and crowded venues, even if your loved one does not typically use one at home.

Traveling with a group
Traveling with friends or family, or even joining a preplanned tour, are great options for traveling with a loved one. When booking a tour, try to avoid ones that visit multiple destinations with frequent changes in cities or hotels during a short trip. Constantly changing environments can be confusing to people with memory loss and they may feel more comfortable staying at the same “homebase” while traveling, taking nearby day trips and returning to their familiar lodging at the end of each day. If multiple changes cannot be avoided, try to pack as light as possible to keep the moves manageable, and try to keep to a similar schedule each day.
Can I see your ID?
In the event you and your loved one become separated while traveling, there are several tracking and identification options that can help reunite you quickly with your loved one.
Place an Air Tag or similar locator in your loved one’s pocket or purse, enable the “Find Me” app on their smartphone, or install specialty apps such as Life360 to create a family circle showing where each member of your party is located.
Finally, the Alzheimer’s Association provides wandering safety and identification services through MedicAlert Foundation, including 24/7 emergency response and customized ID jewelry that helps first responders assist your loved one. For more information on these services, visit https://www.medicalert.org/medical-conditions/alzheimers/ or call 1-800-432-5378.

Medical needs
When travelling, be certain to have contact information for all physicians and medical providers as well as a copy of all medications. It is also a good idea to have extra medication just in case.
Have fun!
Most importantly, have fun. As a care provider, travel should be enjoyable to you. If you are relaxed and prepared you will be more likely to enjoy your time together on vacation.

Community Pages
Schell Sweet Center: Serving New Town Through Education, Health, and Opportunity
For more than two decades, the Schell Sweet Community Resource Center, located at 1697 Kings Road near the Edward Waters University campus, has been a trusted source of education, support, and services for New Town and residents in surrounding communities. The Center offers a wide range of programs for individuals and families of all ages, including workforce training, educational opportunities, food distributions, health and wellness programs, social services, virtual learning, and faith-based partnerships.
Under the leadership of Mrs. Marie Heath, who has served as Director for more than 25 years, the Center has continued to grow in response to community needs, including holistic support for seniors. Core senior services include clinical healthcare, wellness and fitness programs (such as senior line-dancing), nutritional support, computer training, and on-site social services with assistance from the Florida Department of Children and Families. One of its newest additions is a family health clinic led by Dr. Kenyatte Lee, further expanding access to healthcare services for residents. For more information about available programs and services, contact the Schell Sweet Community Resource Center at 904-470-8930.

Neighbors Building a Dementia-Friendly Brentwood

Brentwood Neighbors, 2nd Mile Ministries, and the Mayo Clinic Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (ADRC) Outreach Team are working together to make Brentwood a more dementia-friendly community. More than 100 neighborhood residents recently shared their ideas about programs, services, and resources that could support healthy brain aging, assist individuals experiencing memory loss, and provide support for caregivers and families affected by dementia.
This summer, project partners will use that feedback to develop new community programs and resources. These plans will be unveiled at a community kickoff event
scheduled for late September.
To learn more about the initiative or receive information about the kickoff event, scan the QR code or contact the Mayo Clinic ADRC at 904-953-6523.

Walk with a Doc
The Mayo Clinic ADRC Outreach Team has partnered with AARP’s “Walk with a Doc” – a free community walking program! Each event is led by a local healthcare provider and is open to people of all ages and abilities. The program allows participants to safely take a walk, learn about current health topics, and meet new people. We hope to see you at our next walk. For more information visit Walk with a Doc – Walk with a Doc

Calendar of Events







NEW TOWN SUCCESS ZONE COMMUNITY IMPACT DAYS
1401 Grunthal Street
Jacksonville, FL 32209
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
July 18, 2026
August 15, 2026
September 19, 2026
SCHELL SWEET COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTER FOOD DISTRIBUTION
1697 Kings Road, Jacksonville, FL 32209
9:00 AM - Noon or while food lasts
July 11, 2026
August 8, 2026
September 12, 2026
MEMORY CAFÉ
Socialization and support for those with memory loss and their caregivers
3rd Saturdays of each month at 11:00am (unless otherwise noted)
Wallace Small Community Center
1083 Line Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209
Saturday, July 18 ,2026 - Taking care of yourself and others. Speaker: Dr. Maisha Robinson
Saturday, August 15, 2026 - Fall Safety. Speaker TBA
Saturday, September 19, 2026 - Hurricane Preparedness. Speaker TBA
Contact: Marcia Ellison (904) 866-3363 or Willetta Richardson (904) 470-8899 or Tina Logan (904) 651-5075.
VISION KEEPERS
4th Thursday of the Month
6:00-8:00PM
Dinner always served
Call (904) 470-8899 for details

Today’s Research is Tomorrow’s Hope
Community participation in dementia research is essential to ensure that future discoveries, treatments, and prevention strategies benefit everyone. Greater representation helps researchers better understand the factors that influence brain health in our communities. The Mayo Clinic Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center currently offers two opportunities for community members to participate in research aimed at improving healthy brain aging and dementia care.

Mayo Advancing Research Engagement in ADRD (MAREAS) is a National Institute on Aging-funded study examining why Black/African American and Hispanic/Latino individuals are at increased risk for dementia. Participants provide blood samples, undergo brain imaging and memory testing, and meet with dementia specialists who evaluate a wide range of risk factors, including health conditions, genetics, biomarkers, and social determinants of health. Participants receive a personalized Brain Health Report that can be shared with their healthcare providers. Individuals age 45 and older who live in the Jacksonville area and identify as Black/African American or Hispanic/Latino may be eligible to participate.
Sex-specific Effects of Endocrine Disruption on Aging and Alzheimer’s Disease (SEED-AD) examines how the loss of female hormones due to ovary removal before menopause may affect memory, brain health, and risk for Alzheimer’s disease and vascular disease. Mayo Clinic Jacksonville recently joined this effort to increase participation by populations at greater risk for dementia. Black/African American women age 60 and older with or without ovary removal prior to menopause may be eligible to participate in this study. Participation includes brain imaging studies, blood testing, memory evaluations, and a visit with an ADRC dementia specialist.
To learn more about either study, call 904 953-6523 or scan the QR code on the back page of this newsletter and select “Learn About Opportunities to Volunteer for Research.”


Welcome to Mayo Clinic Florida Brain Health
Mayo Clinic Florida promotes research and education about healthy brain aging, mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's disease (AD), and AD-related dementias (ADRD). Together with our community partners, we offer education and support programs for people with memory loss and their loved ones. We also offer opportunities for the community to participate in clinical trials and research discoveries to better understand brain health and develop effective treatments for those with memory disorders.

Spread the Word About Brain Health!
If you or someone you know would like to receive this newsletter, contact us through any of the methods de-scribed below to be added to our distribution list. If you have received this newsletter in error, or otherwise do not wish to receive future issues, please let us know. You can also reach out to us if you would like to:
- learn more about obtaining a memory evaluation or diagnosis of dementia
- speak with someone about caregiver resources
- learn more about research opportunities
Simply point your Smartphone camera at the QR code below and touch the link that comes up on your screen. Select your choice of information and delivery options.


Other wats to reach us:
- Email: FLAMayoADRC@mayo.edu
- Phone: 904-953-6523
- Visit our website www.brainhealthflorida.mayo.edu
- Follow us on Facebook #mayoclinicfladrc
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