As many as 5 million people with Alzheimer’s disease are living in the United States, and perhaps half of them are currently in the early stages of the disease. Individuals with early-stage Alzheimer's are likely to retain the ability to fulfill many daily activities and to participate in dialogue with healthcare and social services providers. In this way, those in the early stage of the disease can have a positive impact on their current and future experiences. It is critical for professionals in aging to recognize the benefit of partnering with such individuals to help set the service agenda. Read More >>

Due to increased public awareness about Alzheimer’s and due to progress in techniques for diagnosis and treatment, the number of people diagnosed at an earlier stage of the illness has increased. Individuals at this stage of the diseaese may have great insight into their condition -- and need supportive services that match their level of capacity and reinforce their strengths. To address the needs of this rapidly growing population, the Alzheimer’s Association in Los Angeles has established the Early-Stage Memory Loss Project, which works with community partners to identify and fill gaps in needed services. Read More >>

"When I was diagnosed with dementia, probable Alzheimer’s type, at age 48, I made the decision not to hide, but rather to speak out and be an advocate," writes Richard Bozanich, who cochaired the first Early Memory Loss Forum in 2007. "People are too comfortable with the misconception that this is only a disease of the old, which fosters ageist attitudes that must stop if true progress is to be made toward proper funding for research. If enough resources are applied, Alzheimer’s can be a manageable, treatable condition until we are able to find a cure." Read More >>

A convergence of independent research findings suggests that nutrition can both reduce the risk for Alzheimer's and slow the progression of the disease. Nancy Emerson Lombardo explains the science and evidence behind memory-preservation nutrition, a comprehensive dietary program that puts these findings into practice with older adults. By the nature of its design, the program also should help prevent and treat prediabetes, diabetes and vascular diseases, which themselves are thought to elevate the risk and accelerate the progression of Alzheimer’s. Read More >>

In her column this quarter, MHAN Leadership Council chair Share DeCroix Bane discusses upcoming newsletter themes and conference events -- and highlights the accomplishments of two MHAN members who are receiving honors for their longtime service to the network and to the field of aging. Recognizing the vital contribution of all of MHAN's members, Share adds, "When MHAN was formed we often struggled to raise awareness … about the unique issues of mental health for older adults and the distinctive concerns faced by practitioners who work with them. You have made that awareness happen." Read More >>