A note from our medical director on the CDC's updated language regarding how COVID-19 spreads.
 The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently updated its webpage “How COVID-19 Spreads,” adding language about airborne transmission. In summary, COVID-19 is primarily spread through respiratory droplets. However, there is increasing evidence that under certain circumstances COVID-19 also can be spread through airborne transmission. Airborne transmission occurs in microscopic respiratory secretions (often called particles) and because of their small size those particles can linger in the air for minutes to hours. The evidence to date shows this spread occurs in select environments where one or more of the following conditions are met: 1) enclosed space, 2) inadequate ventilation, and 3) the infected person was breathing heavily such as singing or exercising. While airborne transmission is considered much less common than the spread through respiratory droplets, it is a reminder for us to stay vigilant when outside of our homes. The CDC and other public health organizations have not recommended shutting down indoor facilities but have strongly encouraged updates to air filtration systems and enforcement of mask use.
University of Wisconsin Alzheimer's disease research study visits take place in an institution with updated air filtration, adequate personal protective equipment (PPE), and a work culture that prioritizes safety. To date, there have been no acquired infections in the Clinical Research Unit (CRU), Waisman Center, or other spaces where our research is conducted. Our hospital continues to remain safe thanks to the employees, patients, research participants, and visitors who diligently follow universal precautions and wear their masks and other PPE.
As you start planning for the holidays with your friends and family, I want to remind you that spending time with people indoors poses some risk for contracting COVID-19. It's important to educate yourself on the virus, the potential risks you face when you leave your home, and your risks for developing severe symptoms should you contract the virus. In the end, it is your decision what actions you take and what level of risk you are comfortable with. Please do what you can to stay safe and healthy.
Sincerely,
Nathaniel Chin, MD
Medical Director, Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center and Wisconsin Registry for Alzheimer’s Prevention (WRAP)
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New guide for helping people with cognitive impairment cast an election ballot
The Penn Memory Center and the American Bar Association Commission on Law and Aging released a new guide for assisting voters who have cognitive impairments. The techniques and tips described in this guide can improve communication with a person who has cognitive impairment, consistent with election laws. Read the guide
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Volunteer opportunity: New Friends program pairs future healthcare professionals with people living with dementia
The Wisconsin Alzheimer's Institute's New Friends program is recruiting people living with memory loss to mentor future healthcare professionals. Have fun and share your unique perspective with UW–Madison students. Monthly meetings will be held virtually. Learn how to volunteer
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Intermittent fasting and its effects on the brain
As intermittent fasting has risen in popularity over the last decade, researchers have been exploring its long-term effects on physical health. On the Dementia Matters podcast, host Nathaniel Chin, MD, and guest Mark Mattson, PhD, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, discuss research on metabolic switching, caloric restrictions, and the potential cognitive benefits from intermittent fasting. Listen to the podcast
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Gina Green-Harris appointed to chair governor's Health Equity Council
Gov. Tony Evers recently appointed Wisconsin Alzheimer's Institute (WAI) Regional Milwaukee Office Director Gina Green-Harris, MBA, to serve as chair of the Governor’s Health Equity Council. The governor appointed Green-Harris and 32 other people to the council, which is charged with creating a comprehensive plan to achieve equitable health outcomes for all people in Wisconsin, namely by addressing health disparities based on race, economic status, education level, history of incarceration, and geographic location. Read more
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Wisconsin ADRC releases 2019-2020 Annual Report
Learn about some of the Wisconsin ADRC's programs and research in its most recent Annual Report. The publication includes funding and publication highlights as well as an infographic summarizing the center's accomplishments. Read the Annual Report
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Tune in for virtual events
 Upcoming events
Healthy Living with MCI: Sleep Your Way to a Better Brain
October 24, 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Healthy Living with MCI is a quarterly support and education series for patients and families living with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Classes offer science-backed strategies for living with a diagnosis of MCI. Attendees to "Sleep Your Way to a Better Brain" will learn how sleep and brain health are connected, as well as tips to improve sleep hygiene at home. Free and open to the public, the series is organized by the Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center and Alzheimer's Association Wisconsin Chapter.
Coffee and a Chat Series
October 27, November 2, November 11, November 19, times vary
A regular educational series you can join online or by phone. Learn about important brain health and aging-related topics and see familiar faces, all from your own home. Upcoming topics include Hearing Loss and Caregiving. Sponsored by Wisconsin Alzheimer's Institute Regional Milwaukee Office and Alzheimer's Association Wisconsin Chapter.
Living Well with Dementia
November 9-13, 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. daily
The West Madison Dementia Friendly Coalition will host a virtual resource fair with live presentations and Q&As daily, addressing all aspects of the dementia journey including: health and wellness; care transitions; living in and access your community; financial issues; and crisis prevention. Bonnie Nuttkinson, outreach and recruitment specialist with the Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, will present "They Want Me to Do What? A Glimpse Inside of an Alzheimer's Research Volunteer Experience" on Nov. 11. View the lineup of presentation topics on Facebook, or RSVP to Amber at abormann@brookdale.com for more information on how to join the event via Zoom.
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