Spring 2026
Understanding the New Blood Test for Alzheimer’s Disease and How it Works
Readers of Let’s Talk Brain Health may remember that we previously shared information on a new blood test to diagnose Alzheimer’s Disease. In this issue, we provide an update on the ways in which the blood test is now bringing important advances from research into how doctors evaluate memory concerns. While this development is promising, it is important to understand what the test can (and cannot) do.
A Simpler Way to Detect Alzheimer’s Changes
Alzheimer’s disease begins years, even decades, before symptoms appear. During that time, certain proteins, called beta-amyloid and tau, build up in the brain and eventually damage brain cells.
Spring 2026
In This Issue
Until recently, confirming these changes required either a spinal tap (lumbar puncture) to measure proteins in spinal fluid, or a specialized brain scan (PET scan) to detect amyloid buildup. While accurate, spinal taps are invasive and PET scans are expensive and not widely available.
The new blood test measures these same disease-related processes through a simple blood draw. Because blood can be collected almost anywhere, this test has the potential to expand access to Alzheimer’s-related testing.
However, the test is not yet intended for general screening or for people who are simply worried about occasional forgetfulness. It is ordered only when a healthcare professional, after a careful evaluation, strongly suspects Alzheimer’s disease.
How Reliable Is the Test?
In studies at Mayo Clinic, the blood test has shown over 90% accuracy in detecting Alzheimer’s-related brain changes in people with memory concerns. This level of accuracy meets criteria set by the Alzheimer’s Association for identifying amyloid protein accumulation.
Insurance coverage varies depending on location and individual plans, and may not be available for everyone.
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive blood test indicates that Alzheimer’s-related proteins are present. However, this does not automatically mean a person has Alzheimer’s disease.
Other health factors must be considered. For example, reduced kidney function can cause protein levels in the blood to appear elevated, which may lead to a false positive result. In addition, Alzheimer’s-related brain changes may be present even if they are not the cause of a person’s symptoms. Older adults often have more than one condition contributing to memory problems.
Because of this, the blood test does not replace a full medical evaluation. Careful interpretation by an experienced clinician is essential.
What Happens Next?
If a blood test is positive, doctors typically confirm the findings with a spinal tap or PET scan before starting treatment. These remain the gold standard tests, especially before beginning therapies that may involve long-term infusions and potential side effects.
At this time, the blood test does not change the overall approach to treatment. It is a helpful tool for getting the right people into treatment early, but the blood test itself is not a final answer.
Researchers continue to study how blood tests may eventually help detect Alzheimer’s disease earlier and monitor treatment response. As with any new test, ongoing research is needed to fully understand long-term performance and limitations.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor
If you or a loved one are concerned about memory changes, consider asking your doctor:
- Based on my symptoms, is an Alzheimer’s blood test appropriate for me?
- Could other health conditions explain my symptoms or affect my test results?
- If the test is positive, what additional testing would be needed?
- What are the risks and benefits of available treatments?
A blood test can provide valuable information, but thoughtful medical guidance remains the most important part of care.
Alzheimer's Brain Changes Are More Common Than We Thought
A new study published in the journal Nature has provided the most detailed picture yet of how common Alzheimer’s disease-related brain changes are in older adults. The research indicates that Alzheimer’s changes in the brain affect many more people than previously thought.
Blood Tests Make Detection Practical
Traditionally, diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease in living people relied on expensive brain scans or spinal fluid tests, options that are not readily available for most families. But scientists now can measure a molecule in the blood called pTau217 that reflects the buildup of abnormal tau protein in the brain (one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease). Using this biomarker in a large population makes it possible to estimate how common Alzheimer’s pathology really is.
What the Study Found
Researchers in Norway analyzed data from nearly 9,000 adults aged 70 and older who provided blood samples and underwent cognitive assessment. By measuring levels of pTau217 and linking them with cognitive status, scientists were able to estimate how many people had Alzheimer’s disease brain changes (ADBC).
Key Results
- One in three adults aged 70+ had ADBC.
- About 10% of those with ADBC had no cognitive symptoms.
- Another 10% had signs of memory loss.
- The rate of ADBC increases with age.
- These numbers are higher than previous estimates, suggesting ADBC is present in more people than symptoms alone would indicate.
How Education and Brain Health Intersect
The study found differences by education level, with lower rates of ADBC in people with higher educational attainment. This supports the idea that lifelong learning and mentally stimulating activities may help protect the brain or delay symptoms, even when disease burden is present.
What This Means for Our Community
For many African American families, the impact of Alzheimer’s disease is deeply personal. Dementia affects a higher proportion of Black elders than other groups, and African Americans often face barriers to timely diagnosis and care. This study underscores several important points:
- Early detection matters. A blood test that flags ADBC could help people learn about their risk for dementia long before severe memory loss sets in. That may open doors to earlier treatment, protective lifestyle changes, and advance planning. This is especially important in communities where symptoms are often recognized late.
- Awareness and access are critical. Blood-based biomarkers are a promising tool, but families and communities need access to these tests and culturally informed education about what they mean. A positive test result does not automatically mean disease will begin or progress rapidly, but it DOES signal a higher risk that merits closer monitoring and early intervention to take advantage of treatments that can extend quality of life.
- Education and brain health go hand in hand. The finding of higher educational attainment being linked with lower prevalence of ADBC reinforces the value of lifelong learning. Community programs, adult education, and brain-healthy lifestyle support can contribute to resilience against cognitive decline.
Looking Forward
As blood testing for ADBC starts to become more available, people with memory concerns can make better informed choices about health care, planning, and participation in clinical trials.
For African American communities, these findings highlight both challenges and opportunities: challenges in addressing higher rates of dementia and health-related disparities, and opportunities to increase awareness and access to early detection, prevention, education, and support, allowing families to confront Alzheimer’s disease with knowledge and dignity.
Meet an ADRC Team Member
Dr. Maisha Robinson
Dr. Maisha T. Robinson is a neurologist at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. She received her medical degree from Tufts University School of Medicine and has been in practice for more than 20 years. She is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Neurology and serves as Division Chair of the Department of Palliative Medicine. She is also Chair of the Mayo Clinic Community Relations Committee.
Dr. Robinson, can you tell our readers about your work at Mayo Clinic?
I am a neurologist at Mayo Clinic in Florida who sees patients both in the hospital and in the clinic. I also specialize in Palliative Medicine, which focuses on improving the quality of life for people who have serious or advanced medical conditions. In addition to my clinical work, I am the Chair of our Community Relations Committee, which oversees Mayo Clinic Florida’s community engagement efforts.
Outside of work, I am an avid traveler and eater! I enjoy exploring new cities, countries, and cultures with my large family including my parents, sister, brother-in-law, nieces and nephew, cousins, husband, and children.
Why are you involved in clinical research?
During my Medical School training, I noticed from afar that my grandmother was having more difficulty with her memory. Each time, as if hearing it for the first time, she would express her excitement at learning that her granddaughter was going to be a doctor. When I traveled home and saw her in the nursing home, she looked nothing like I'd remembered and by the look in her eyes, I didn't look any more familiar to her. In person, it was blatantly obvious that her dementia was progressing.
I watched the impact that Alzheimer's had on her, taking her from a gushing grandmother, eloquent English teacher of 30 years, and championship bowler, to a shell of her former self. During my training, I cared for numerous patients who were affected by dementia, like my grandmother was and I realized that there were opportunities to improve the care that we provided for them and their loved ones. Research allows me to identify the gaps in care and support for my patients and to develop potential solutions.
Recently you began a new research project involving caregivers, could you describe your project?
Black Americans are disproportionately affected by Alzheimer’s Disease and Alzheimer’s Disease-Related Dementias. Caring for an individual with Alzheimer’s Disease is rewarding in many ways but can be a difficult and stressful undertaking that considerably impacts the health and the quality of life of the caregiver. This burden causes psychological and physical health challenges among caregivers that also impacts those for which they care.
My project titled "This is Their Reality: Addressing Black Dementia Caregiver Burden Utilizing Virtual Reality" aims to reduce caregiver burden by assessing and addressing Black dementia caregivers’ psychological state of health by utilizing virtual reality experiences to reduce stress and increase empathy.
We will recruit 20 Black dementia caregivers to participate in the study. They will engage in discussions with other caregivers about the caregiving role, support for caregivers, and resources. Half of the participants will also immerse themselves in virtual reality experiences, which have been demonstrated to reduce anxiety and stress and to improve empathy in caregivers. We will assess whether or not the virtual reality experiences reduce caregiver burden in our participants.
What do you and your team hope to accomplish?
We are hoping to assess whether the use of virtual reality can help reduce the burden of caregiving by decreasing stress levels and by briefly transporting caregivers into another world, a virtual world.
Who are you working with on this project?
This study is best described as community partnered participatory research. Therefore, we have several community members who were involved in the design of the project through the Mayo Clinic Alzheimer's Disease Research Center Ambassadors Program. This partnership ensures that the research studies that we share with the community are vetted beforehand and it provides accountability for the researchers to ensure that the perspective of potential study participants have been considered. Other Mayo Clinic ADRC staff are assisting with the project as well.
"During my training, I cared for numerous patients who were affected by dementia, like my grandmother was and I realized that there were opportunities to improve the care that we provided for them and their loved ones. Research allows me to identify the gaps in care and support for my patients and to develop potential solutions."
Dr. RobiNSON
Meet a Community Champion
Dr. Barbara Darby
In this edition of Let’s Talk Brain Health we welcome Dr. Barbara Darby who has been a member of our Community Ambassador Program and a Community Champion in Northeast Florida supporting several projects and entities. Dr. Darby shared with us her background and why community is important.
Dr. Barbara Ann Darby has been a member of Woodlawn Presbyterian Church since relocating to Jacksonville from New York in 1972. She served as president of the North Campus and Nassau Center of Florida State College at Jacksonville from 1998 until her retirement in July 2015.
Dr. Darby received her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Hunter College in New York, a Master of Education degree from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University and a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Florida. She received her Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of North
Florida. Her extensive community involvement has earned her numerous honors and awards for her contributions. She gives God, the Center of her life, all praise and glory for everything she has accomplished.
She is married to John Darby, Jr. They have two daughters (Jzanyt & Tamara), a son (Jonathan), and two grandsons (Alexander and Brandon). Barbara enjoys reading biographies and historical literature, shopping, dancing, traveling and listening to smooth jazz and spiritual music.
Dr. Darby is also a published author. A sample of her publications include:
- Conversations from the Book of Matthew – A Devotional (2025). Florida: Williams & King.
- My Leadership Journey: Wisdom from the Trenches (2019). Florida: Williams & King.
- Beginning Nursing Practice and Mentoring Relationships (1995). Published Dissertation.
Before hearing her story, we wanted to share that during her tenure at FSCJ, Dr. Darby was instrumental in welcoming the Mayo Clinic ADRC to the community and hosting a preview of “Alzheimer’s Disease: What Every African-American Needs to Know,” our first educational video focused exclusively on the impact of Alzheimer’s Disease in the African American community..
What inspires you to be involved in community awareness and activism?
It may sound trite, but when I think of my life journey, I recognize that I have been richly blessed. I've come to understand the true meaning of "To whom much is given, much is required," and I give back to my community based on that understanding. I plan to leave this earth on "E."
Images of my maternal grandmother, May, and my mother, Bethy, helping and visiting neighbors and friends, left a deep impression on me during my developmental years. I learned early on that helping others in need is part of living in a community.
My civic engagement began when I moved to Jacksonville from New York. The city immediately offered opportunities to become involved based on talents and skills that some in my circle observed and thought I could bring to the table. The YWCA's Branch Committee on Administration was my initial point of service in Jacksonville. I became a charter member of Women Involved in Community Action - a group of young women who came together to serve youth at S A Hull Elementary School.
Becoming a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.'s Jacksonville Alumnae Chapter in 1978, exponentially broadened my community activism and engagement. I developed and honed my organizational and leadership skills to reflect the organization's important tenets: Sisterhood, Scholarship, Service, and Social Action. As Campus President at the College, my role involved serving the educational needs of citizens and meeting the needs of businesses in Northeast Florida. That role expanded my civic engagement which has continued in retirement.
What attracted you to becoming involved with the Mayo Clinic ADRC?
One day, Pam Quarles called to share that she was working with the ADRC to assemble volunteer community ambassadors supporting its mission to inform the community about memory loss and dementia. As a trusted and respected professional, I listened to Pam and saw alignment with my healthcare background. Additionally, a dear friend and mentor was affected and lost her life to Alzheimer's. I saw firsthand the devastating effects of the disease on its victims and their family. I have remained engaged in memory and in honor of my dear friend.
What do you find most rewarding about your ADRC outreach activities?
As an educator, I know that education has the potential to change behavior. The more individuals know about the disorders classified under the broad heading of dementia, their root causes, therapies, and community resources, the more empowered they are to take action on behalf of their own wellbeing. The Mayo Clinic ADRC's outreach efforts and its ambassadors have targeted the information and knowledge gap for members of our population significantly impacted by these diseases. My outreach experiences have been quite satisfying because I believe that our work gives each participant tools, access to various resources, and a real opportunity to improve their health status. I enjoy meeting the citizens who show up as a first step to self-care.
What are your thoughts on clinical research?
Research is necessary to advance the earliest possible diagnosis, care, treatment and even elimination of some disorders. It is critical to have diverse representation in research studies so that the findings when applied may be applicable to various groups. Without research, we could not enjoy the medical and other advances from which we currently benefit.
HABIT: A Program to Support Memory, Independence and Quality of Life
When memory changes begin, many families feel uncertain about what to do next. The good news is that there are programs designed not only to support memory, but also to strengthen confidence, independence, and daily functioning. One such program is the Health Actions to Benefit Independence & Thinking (HABIT) program, developed by Dr. Melanie Chandler and colleagues at Mayo Clinic.
What Is HABIT?
HABIT is a structured, evidence-based program designed for people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and their care partners. MCI involves memory or thinking changes that are greater than normal aging but do not interfere with independence. MCI can occur for many reasons, including Alzheimer’s disease, Lewy Body disease, vascular disease, and other medical conditions. While HABIT does not treat or cure the cause of MCI, it focuses on what people can do to protect brain health, maintain independence and quality of life, build confidence, and adjust to the emotional impact of the diagnosis.
What Does the HABIT Program Include?
HABIT combines five key areas known to support brain health:
- Memory compensation training teaches how to use external supports, such as an organized calendar system, routines, and checklists, to reduce burden on memory. Evidence shows that consistent use of these supports improves daily functioning, reduces anxiety related to forgetfulness, and enhances self-confidence.
- Physical exercise is one of the most robust non-medication interventions for brain health. HABIT teaches physical activities associated with slower memory decline, better mood, and reduced risk of vascular disease that can affect brain health.
- Cognitive training activities and strategies are taught that provide mental stimulation to help strengthen brain efficiency.
- Wellness education is an important component because brain health is influenced by modifiable lifestyle factors such as sleep, stress, nutrition, social engagement, and cardiovascular management. Wellness education provides clear, actionable information that promote behaviors associated with long-term cognitive health.
- Support groups for both participants and care partners help normalize the experiences they are
partners, support group also provides education, communication strategies, stress management tools, and social support.
How Does the HABIT Program Work?
HABIT is a 10-day program offered at Mayo Clinic Florida. Throughout the program, participants work with a team of neuropsychologists, social workers, occupational therapists, cognitive specialists, and certified yoga instructors. To participate, individuals must have a diagnosis of MCI and must be accompanied by their designated care partner. HABIT is offered in a supportive group setting, allowing participants and their partners to connect with others who are navigating similar experiences. You do not have to be an existing Mayo Clinic patient to participate in HABIT.
Why HABIT Matters for Our Community
African American communities face higher rates of conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and stroke, all of which affect brain health. At the same time, access to early support programs has not always been equitable.
HABIT emphasizes empowerment. It teaches practical, everyday strategies that help individuals remain independent and confident. It also recognizes the central role of family and community in supporting health.
Importantly, HABIT is not just about memory. It addresses stress management, lifestyle habits, and emotional well-being, all of which are critical for maintaining brain health.
Taking Action Early
The HABIT program is designed for individuals in the early stages of cognitive change. Early participation allows people to build strategies before difficulties progress. If you or a loved one have noticed consistent memory changes, talk with your healthcare provider about whether further evaluation is appropriate. If MCI is diagnosed, contact the Mayo Clinic HABIT team at 904-953 6600 for information on how to participate.
A Message of Hope
With the right tools, support, and healthy habits, many people with MCI continue to live active, meaningful lives. HABIT reminds us that brain health is not only about medical tests, it is also about daily actions, community support, and staying engaged in life. The goal of HABIT is simple: to provide families with tools and confidence to do as well as possible for as long as possible.
For More Information
Visit the Mayo Clinic Website
Or call Mayo Clinic at: Midwest: (608) 392-9371 Florida: (904) 953-8853 Arizona: (480) 301-7432 Email: HabitProgram@mayo.edu
Visit us at Mayo Clinic Connect: Living with MCI
What's Cooking?
Courtesy of Mayo Clinic Staff
This light summer dessert is quick and easy to make and has great flavor! It features strawberries which, along with most berries, are a healthy fruit due to being rich in antioxidants, which protect the brain from changes associated with aging and inflammation.
Grilled Angel Food Cake
Serves 6
Ingredients
- 1-1/2 cups chopped strawberries
- 3/4 cup chopped rhubarb
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 6 tablespoons water
- 1-3/4 teaspoons vanilla
- 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 prepared angel food cake, cut into 6 pieces
- 3/4 cup low-fat whipped topping
Directions
- Prepare a hot fire in a charcoal grill or heat agas grill or broiler. Away from the heat source, lightly coat the grill rack or broiler pan with cooking spray. Position the cooking rack 4 to6 inches from the heat source.
- While the grill is heating, make the sauce. In a saucepan, combine the strawberries, rhubarb, sugar, water, vanilla and cinnamon. Cook on medium heat until the mixture just starts to boil, about 5 minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat and set aside.
- Place the angel food cake toward the edge of the grill rack where there is less heat or on the broiler pan. Grill or broil until each side turns brown, for about 1 to 3 minutes. Place the angel food cake on individual plates. To peach piece with 1/4 cup of the strawberry-rhubarb sauce and 2 tablespoons of the whipped topping. Serve immediately.
Caregiver Corner
As a caregiver how do you take care of yourself when it feels like the “to do” list never ends? We have all heard the “airplane rule” that you must put your own oxygen mask on before assisting anyone else. How do we apply that message to everyday life?
Easier said than done! Many caregivers carry a deep sense of responsibility being raised to show up for family and taught to stay strong. But strength also means knowing when to pause, breathe, and protect your own health. Even when there doesn’t seem to be enough hours in the day.
Why Self-Care Matters
Caregiving is physically and emotionally demanding. Over time, constant stress can lead to exhaustion, depression, high blood pressure, sleep problems, and other health concerns. When caregivers neglect their own well-being, everyone is affected. Taking care of yourself is not selfish. It is necessary.
Stay Connected
Isolation can quietly take a toll. Make an effort to stay connected with family, friends, church members, or trusted neighbors. Even a short phone call, coffee visit, or time at worship can restore your energy.
Ask for Help — and Be Specific!
Many people truly want to help but don’t know how. Instead of saying “I’m fine,” try being prepared. Growing up, many people might have lived in a home where there was a chore list or jar. This is a good way to ask for help. When you think about something another person could do that would be helpful, write it down and put it in the jar. Then, when someone asks if there is anything they can do, you are prepared. Some ideas might include:
- Pick up groceries
- Sit with your loved one for an hour
- Drive to an appointment
- Prepare a meal
- Help with yard work
Make Self-Care a Priority
The importance of self-care for caregivers cannot be over-emphasized. Neglecting one’s well-being can lead to stress, burnout and health problems. Even small steps can make a difference:
- Take a short daily walk
- Rest when your loved one rests
- Eat regular meals
- Step outside for fresh air
- Schedule your own medical appointments
- Protect your sleep
Learn and Build Support
Understanding dementia can reduce frustration and increase confidence. Consider caregiver education programs, support groups, or community workshops, such as those listed in the Calendar of Events in this newsletter. Connecting with others who understand your journey can reduce stress and remind you that you are not alone. Support can come from:
- Family and friends
- Faith communities
- Local dementia programs
- Respite service
Key Points
Prioritize self-care: Make time for activities that promote relaxation and well-being, suchas exercise, socializing, and rest.
Recognize the demands: Caregiving can be physically and emotionally exhausting, so it's essential to manage demands on your life.
Seek support: Build a support system through family, friends, and community resources to help navigate the challenges of caregiving.
Educate yourself: Understanding the needs of the person you care for can help you provide better support.
Community Pages
On February 6, 2026, Mr. Victor Cora shared information about memory loss and dementia to the City of Jacksonville’s Retired Senior Volunteer Program at the Mary Singleton Senior Center in Springfield.
The Mayo Clinic ADRC Outreach team helped support food distribution efforts during Winter 2026 to serve the community and enhance awareness of brain-health lifestyle factors. We are grateful to our partners at Woodlawn Presbyterian Church, St. Paul Missionary Baptist, and Schell Sweet Community Resource Center for the opportunity to serve.
On February 16, 2026, Mr. Victor Cora shared information about memory loss and dementia to residents and staff at Wyndham Lakes Assisted Living in Mandarin.
NEW TOWN SUCCESS ZONE COMMUNITY IMPACT DAYS
1401 Grunthal Street
Jacksonville, FL 32209
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
April 25, 2026
May 26, 2026
June 27, 2026
SCHELL SWEET COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTER FOOD DISTRIBUTION
1697 Kings Road, Jacksonville, FL 32209
9:00 AM - Noon or while food lasts
April 11, 2026
May 29, 2026
June 13, 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, April 17, ,2026
Saturday, May 15, 2026
Saturday, June 19,2026
Contact: Marcia Ellison (904) 866-3363, 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
Calendar of Events
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 described 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 ways to reach us:
» Email: FLAMayoADRC@mayo.edu
» Phone: 904-953-6523
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www.brainhealthflorida.mayo.edu
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