A community-based support group focusing on sharing relevant information and education about all things Parkinson’s. Meetings are held monthly on the third Tuesday, 10-11am, at Crosspointe Church (5415 Ralston Ave.) The next meeting will be on Tuesday, June 21.

Ventura County Parkinson’s Support Group gets together every month with skilled, experienced professionals who present significant breakthroughs, strategies and related issues surrounding Parkinson’s. The group’s mission is for participants to better understand and talk about how this information impacts their own lives and affects immediate family members. In addition to those diagnosed with PD, caregivers, family members and friends are all welcome to attend free of charge.

More than just a meeting, all discussions/presentations offer interactive, compassionate, relevant education on PD. Topics range from “How to get up off the floor when you’ve fallen,” to “Nutrition and Parkinson’s” to “The benefits of deep brain stimulation and assessing if you’re a good candidate for DBS” to the importance of laughter in life and for healing.

Jon Everhart, retired accountant, US Marine and regular group attendee said, “It’s nice comparing treatments, symptoms, and the challenges we all face living with Parkinson’s.” This caring group empowers people like Jon to be more proactive and to participate in deciding the direction of his treatment, complemented by his team of doctors’ suggestions.

This unique group gives everyone a great opportunity to learn more about current PD research, to gain more awareness about local help and resources, to share relevant experiences with others — and to have fun along the way.

The Ventura County Parkinson’s Support Group was recently resurrected (post-Covid) by Dr. Vanessa White, owner of Ventura County Neurofitness (a local fitness program designed specifically for those with Parkinson’s and other neurological degenerative diseases). The impetus for her assuming this responsibility was after her mother-in-law, Toy White, was diagnosed several years ago with PD. This important, special group was born upon her passing.

Mental disorders early in life increase the risk for dementia and for developing dementia at a younger age, according to a study funded in part by NIA and published in JAMA Psychiatry. Analyzing the health care records of 1.7 million New Zealand citizens over three decades, researchers saw these associations for different psychiatric conditions, and for all types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. If these associations are causal, these findings suggest that early interventions to treat mental disorders, such as anxiety or addictive behavior, would not only improve the mental health of younger adults but may also reduce the risk of dementia later in life.

Several studies have identified depression as a preventable risk factor associated with dementia. However, less is known about the effects of other mental disorders on dementia risk, as well as the occurrence of these disorders earlier in life and any associations with early-onset versus later-onset dementia.

To examine whether having a mental disorder increases a person’s risk for developing dementia, researchers examined New Zealand’s national health system’s hospitalization records for 1.7 million individuals ages 21 to 60 years at the start of the study and tracked diagnoses for all mental disorders and any subsequent dementia from July 1988 to June 2018. Researchers classified nine broad categories of mental disorders: substance use, psychotic, mood, neurotic (i.e., anxiety), physiological disturbance, personality, developmental, behavioral, and unspecified disorders.

Of the total study population, 3.8% of the individuals were diagnosed with a mental disorder and 2% with dementia. Within these groups, the researchers found that individuals with a mental-disorder diagnosis were more than four times as likely to develop dementia than those without a mental disorder. Notably, the increased dementia risk was stronger for those with prior mental versus physical disorders, similar in magnitude to the risk associated with the APOE4 gene, a well-established genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s. The researchers also found that, on average, individuals with a prior mental-disorder diagnosis developed dementia more than five years earlier than those without.

Importantly, these associations were found for all types of dementia, as well as for all types of mental disorders, including psychotic, substance abuse, mood, neurotic, and self-harm disorders. The analysis also indicated that psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia, were associated with a higher risk of developing dementia than neurotic disorders, such as depression and anxiety. All of these findings were consistent for men and women across all age groups, even after accounting for physical disease histories and socioeconomic risk factors.

Researchers acknowledge some potential limitations in this study. For example, the results cannot necessarily be generalized to other nations or health care systems. However, the researchers note that studies in the United States and other countries have also identified associations between some mental disorders — such as anxiety and depression — and dementia. The researchers also recognize that the number of mental disorders or dementia cases in the study population may be higher than reported, as less severe cases treated outside of the hospital or individuals who did not receive treatment were not tracked. Similarly, some of the youngest individuals in the study may have developed dementia after this study ended.

This study’s findings have important implications, including evidence that treating mental disorders earlier in life may reduce the risk of developing dementia. Also, these findings should inspire future research to identify the shared and unique pathways of dementia risk across different mental health diseases. Finally, these findings suggest that psychiatric problems may be an early warning sign of possible future cognitive decline and support the potential inclusion of dementia-prevention strategies in mental disorder treatment across the lifespan.

This research was supported in part by NIA grants AG032282, AG069939, AG049789, and P30-AG066589.

These activities relate to NIH’s Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias Research Implementation Milestones:

by Jill Forman

When Smith’s husband was diagnosed with dementia, they joined a not-so-exclusive club. 50 million people worldwide are dealing with dementia.

Smith spoke about her knowledge, experiences and loss at the Hill Road Library on May 14.

After his death she wrote My Husband’s Keeper, a memoir of their journey, to share their experiences and help others going through the same struggles.

When her husband, a beloved and respected doctor, exhibited altered behavior and thought patterns, Smith took him to a neurologist, saying “He’s not quite right.” The specialist diagnosed him with Cognitive Impairment. Smith knew nothing about this condition, and went home to research it. When she realized the implications and prognosis of the progressive illness, “I went into denial.”

“It’s a new world,” she says; families become “paralyzed” and don’t know what to do. “Life becomes disorder, chaos and confusion.”

It is in hope that her knowledge and experiences can help others dealing with this life event that she wrote the book.

One aspect she stresses is that the caregivers must learn to care for themselves also. At one point, when her husband was settling into Memory Care and she was temporarily not needed, “I went home and slept for two days straight. You don’t realize how exhausted you are.” There are caregiver support groups; in Ventura County we have many resources. Families are encouraged to contact the Alzheimer’s Association or the Area Agency on Aging for assistance.

Golden Future Expos Inc. is pleased to announce the 12th Annual Golden Future 50+ Senior Expo is returning to Ventura County. This annual event will be held on Saturday, June 11th from 9:00am – 1:30pm at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center located at 800 Hobson Way, Oxnard.The expo will feature 50 vendors with products, services, and resources tailored for Baby Boomers, Seniors, Caregivers, and Friends/Family.

Highlights Include:Free Admission & Free Parking:Health Screenings:

• Medicare and/or Financial Planning Advice:Makeovers:
• Great Speakers & Workshops:Hourly Door Prize Drawings & Giveaways:
• Mini Job & Volunteer Fair:Bingo with Cash Prizes:DIY Arts & Crafts:
• And More!

The Golden Future 50+ Senior Expo connects local seniors, their families and caretakers with a variety of services and resources available to them. “This expo has become an important annual event for Ventura County,” states Toyia Moore Borrelli, Event Director. Visit www.goldenfutureseniorexpo for a complete schedule. Attendees can pre-register online or at the door.

The Ventura County Area Agency on Aging (VCAAA) is inviting qualified individuals, public and private nonprofit services, and private for-profit organizations to apply as new contracted vendors for VCAAA programs that serve older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers.

The VCAAA is the focal point in Ventura County for those seeking resources and services related to aging and for those caring for an aging loved one. The VCAAA also operates Ventura County’s Aging & Disability Resource Center in partnership with the Independent Living Resource Center, with the end goal of providing a one-stop-shop approach for information and assistance. Potential vendors will share an equal commitment to assisting older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers and are expected to provide the best possible customer service to help Ventura County residents age optimally in place.

The following service categories are specifically being sought: counseling, money management/bill payment/document organization, transportation services (for frail seniors and/or disabled adults), personal care products, home repair and/or home safety modification, biohazard cleaning & waste management (i.e. ability to remove and legally dispose of potentially pathogenic substances), adaptive equipment/non-medical home equipment (must be a contracted provider with both Medi-Cal and/or Medicare for wheelchairs, threshold ramps, hospital beds, walkers, etc.), respite, personal care, chore and homemaker assistance, registered dietitian services, nutrition education, and home delivered meals.

Providers with bilingual Spanish, Tagalog, Farsi and Chinese Mandarin staff are encouraged to apply. Prior to a vendor being granted a contract, they must complete a vendor application packet and supply proof of all required licensing and insurance as required by the California Department of Aging, Federal Transit Administration, Administration for Community Living and the County of Ventura.

A vendor application packet may be obtained at the VCAAA offices located at 646 County Square Drive in Ventura, or by calling 805-477-7300. Those interested may also obtain an application online by visiting www.vcaaa.org/for-providers/vendor-service-tools/. This application process is ongoing. Preference will be given to vendors that provide service throughout the county. VCAAA administration will review all applications. Vendor contracts are subject to the receipt of federal and state funds. Funds are expected to be available beginning July 1, 2022, and are anticipated to end on June 30, 2023. Contracts may be renegotiated to provide additional or fewer services. For more information concerning the vendor application process, contact Brian Murphy, at (805) 477-7300.

Choosing healthy foods has health benefits for everyone. As you age, food provides the nutrients you need. Learn about making smart food choices as part of your daily life.

It’s never too late to make smarter food choices. Healthy eating is an important part of staying healthy as you age.

Following these tips can help you maintain a healthy weight, get the nutrients you need, and lower your risk of chronic disease.

Try to eat and drink from these food groups each day: fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy. Variety is an important part of eating healthfully!

Cut back on foods and beverages that are high in calories and added sugars, sodium, and saturated fats. Shift to healthier options like fresh fruits and vegetables instead.

Instead of high-calorie snacks, such as potato chips, try nutrient-dense snacks, such as carrots.

Instead of fruit products with added sugars, such as fig cookies, try fresh fruit, such as a peach.

Instead of regular cola, try water flavored with fruits or vegetables.

Use a food diary to help you keep track of your total daily calories, carbs, protein, etc., and see if you are making healthy choices. Understand how many calories you need based on your level of daily activity.

Choose a variety of foods that are packed with nutrients and low in calories.

Check the food labels to understand what foods will meet your nutritional needs each day.

How Many Calories Do You Need Each Day?

Women:
Not physically active — 1,600 cal.
Moderately active — 1,800 cal.
Active lifestyle — 2,000-2,200 cal.

Men:
Not physically active — 2,000-2,200 cal.
Moderately active — 2,200-2,400 cal.
Active lifestyle — 2,400-2,800 cal.

Exercise and physical activity are great for your mental and physical health and help keep you independent as you age. Here are a few things you may want to keep in mind when beginning to exercise.

Start slowly when beginning exercise

The key to being successful and safe when beginning a physical activity routine is to build slowly from your current fitness level. Over-exercising can cause injury, which may lead to quitting. A steady rate of progress is the best approach.

To play it safe and reduce your risk of injury:

Begin your exercise program slowly with low-intensity exercises.

Warm up before exercising and cool down afterward.

Pay attention to your surroundings when exercising outdoors.

Drink water before, during, and after your workout session, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Play catch, kickball, basketball, or soccer.

Wear appropriate fitness clothes and shoes for your activity.

If you have specific health conditions, discuss your exercise and physical activity plan with your health care provider.

Don’t forget to test your current fitness level for all four types of exercise— endurance, balance, flexibility, and strength. You may be in shape for running, but if you’re not stretching, you’re not getting the maximum benefit from your exercise. Write down your results so you can track your progress as you continue to exercise.

Short-term goals will help you make physical activity a regular part of your daily life. For these goals, think about the things you’ll need to get or do in order to be physically active. For example, you may need to buy walking shoes or fill out an Activity Log so you can figure out how to fit physical activity into your busy day. Make sure your short-term goals will really help you be active.

Here are a few examples of short-term goals:

Today, I will decide to be more active.

Tomorrow, I will find out about exercise classes in my area.

By the end of this week, I will talk with my friend about exercising with me a couple of times a week.

In the next two weeks, I will make sure I have the shoes and comfortable clothes I need to start walking for exercise.

Write down your long-term goals

After you write down your short-term goals, you can go on to identify your long-term goals. Focus on where you want to be in six months, a year, or two years from now. Long-term goals also should be realistic, personal, and important to you. Here are a few examples:

By this time next year, I will swim one mile three times a week.

Next summer, I will be able to play pitch and catch with my grandchildren.

In six months, I will have my blood pressure under control by increasing my physical activity and following my doctor’s advice.

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a condition in which people have more memory or thinking problems than other people their age. The symptoms of MCI are not as severe as those of Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. People with MCI can usually take care of themselves and carry out their normal daily activities.

People with MCI are at a greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. Estimates vary as to how many people who have MCI will develop dementia. Roughly one to two out of 10 people age 65 or older with MCI are estimated to develop dementia over a one-year period. However, in many cases, the symptoms of MCI stay the same or even improve.

Many factors can cause problems with memory and thinking. There is no single cause of MCI, and it’s more likely to occur as someone ages. Estimates vary, but roughly 10% to 20% of people over age 65 have MCI, with the risk increasing as someone gets older. Other factors like genetics and certain conditions — including diabetes, depression, and stroke — may affect a person’s risk for MCI.

In some cases, memory and thinking problems may be caused by conditions that are treatable. For example, a bad reaction to medication, emotional problems, drinking too much alcohol, blood clots or tumors in the brain, or a head injury can all cause serious memory problems that can be resolved with treatment.

Middle-aged woman doing physical activity to reduce risk for dementia.

Reducing Your Risk for Dementia

We don’t yet know for certain whether lifestyle and behavior changes can prevent dementia, but leading a healthy lifestyle may help.

Symptoms associated with MCI lie in the space between what are considered normal age-related changes and dementia. Signs of MCI include losing things often, forgetting to go to important events or appointments, and having more trouble coming up with words than other people of the same age. It’s common for family and friends to notice these changes. Movement difficulties and problems with the sense of smell have also been linked to MCI.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of MCI, discuss these with your doctor. Your doctor can perform medical tests and assessments to help determine whether the source of memory problems is something treatable or may be MCI. He or she may also suggest that you see someone who specializes in the diagnosis of memory disorders, such as a neurologist, psychiatrist, or neuropsychologist.

There is currently no treatment or medication for MCI, but there are things you can do that may help you stay healthy and manage changes in your thinking. Keeping your mind active is one thing that may benefit your brain. The following tips may help you feel better, and could help your memory:

People with MCI may worry that their memory problems will progress to Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. Because MCI may be an early sign of a more serious memory problem, it’s important to see your doctor every six to 12 months to track any changes in your memory and thinking skills over time.

If symptoms do progress to dementia, getting a diagnosis early can help you and your family prepare for the future. While there are no medications to stop or reverse Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia, there are medicines that may help slow down certain symptoms, such as memory loss or behavioral problems.

If you are concerned about memory problems, talk with your doctor. If you or someone you know has recently been diagnosed with MCI, explore the resources on this website and referenced below to find out more about care, support, and research. The person with MCI may also consider participating in research by joining a clinical trial or study. Many studies are recruiting people with MCI to test early interventions that could slow or stop the progression of cognitive impairment.

Scientists have demonstrated that a new blood test can accurately predict the presence of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain, according to a new study funded in part by NIA. Published in Neurology, the study analyzed the ability of a blood test to predict the presence of Alzheimer’s disease-associated protein beta-amyloid in the brain. The new blood test, which performs comparably to existing brain scan- or spinal tap-based tests, could lower costs and expand the availability of diagnostic studies for Alzheimer’s disease.

Alzheimer’s is characterized by the buildup of a protein called beta-amyloid, which forms sticky plaques on the brain and can cause brain cells to die. Testing for the presence of these amyloid plaques on the brain is an important part of Alzheimer’s diagnosis and research. For people experiencing memory problems, checking for amyloid in the brain helps health care providers determine whether Alzheimer’s is the potential cause. It also can help doctors determine which patients will respond to drugs that target amyloid. For people without any signs of dementia, the presence of amyloid plaques on the brain may help researchers enroll participants in clinical trials for treatments to prevent or delay the onset of cognitive symptoms.

There are two well-established ways to determine if beta-amyloid is in the brain. One measures the amount of beta-amyloid present in cerebrospinal fluid, the fluid that surrounds the brain and spine, through a spinal tap. The other uses a PET brain scan to produce images of beta-amyloid on the brain. Although both methods are accurate, they are expensive, invasive, and have limited availability. Recently, a highly sensitive blood test for beta-amyloid was developed, but there were concerns about how the test would perform in the clinic on blood samples that had been collected and processed in different ways. To address these concerns, researchers from Washington University; University of California, San Francisco; University of Pennsylvania; University of Melbourne and Edith Cowan University in Australia; and Lund University in Sweden studied how well the blood test could predict the presence of amyloid plaques visible on a PET brain scan, using samples that were collected and processed in different ways.

Across all the blood samples, the scientists found that the blood test could effectively predict the presence of beta-amyloid in the brain. The test became even more accurate when the research team took into account the version of APOE (a gene linked to Alzheimer’s disease risk) that each person had. Using blood samples will make it easier to screen healthy people for potential enrollment in clinical trials that test interventions to prevent or treat Alzheimer’s disease.

Although the new test shows promise, one major limitation is that the blood samples used in the study were from majority white, affluent individuals, and the authors note that the results may not be generalizable to other demographic groups. Overall, the authors suggest this new blood test could be a powerful tool that expands the ability to diagnose Alzheimer’s. The researchers estimate that replacing brain imaging and spinal tap studies with blood tests could drastically reduce costs, increase the availability of tests, and even improve clinical trial recruitment of diverse groups of people.

These activities relate to NIH’s Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias Research Implementation Milestones: