Texas A&M at the forefront of dementia research
Groundbreaking studies — supported by a decade-long $3 billion Texas initiative — offer new hope for detection, treatment and care.
Texas A&M University researchers are breaking ground in the fight against dementia, thanks in part to support from the Dementia Prevention Research Institute of Texas (DPRIT), a decade-long $3 billion investment.
The Dementia and Alzheimer’s Research Institute (DARI) initiative at Texas A&M brings together expertise from across disciplines to improve detection, treatment and management of these dreaded diseases. The initiative, launched last year with more than $1.2 million in seed money, brings together leading researchers, clinicians and partners to improve prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care.
The work is led by Israel Liberzon and Farida Sohrabji of the Texas A&M Naresh K. Vashisht College of Medicine and Marcia Ory of the Texas A&M School of Public Health, with 18 additional labs and research groups contributing to the framework.
Experts across the university are available to speak on their cutting-edge research, including:
- The urgent needs of dementia caregivers
A statewide needs assessment led by the Center for Community Health and Aging in the Texas A&M University School of Public Health has found that the unpaid caregivers of older people with dementia and the organizations that work with these caregivers largely identify the same urgent priorities: increasing awareness about resources, making services easier to access and training more providers in dementia care. - Physical activity helps slow dementia
For older adults with mild cognitive decline, a new study suggests at least 20 minutes of physical activity twice weekly can help stall dementia. - Why women bear the burden of dementia: Unraveling the sex gap
Women make up the majority of Alzheimer’s patients, and one researcher set out to understand why, with a key discovery pointing to hormonal changes during menopause. - Nature-inspired virtual reality boosts emotional well-being in older adults living with dementia
Exposure to nature — even in a virtual setting — can enhance the emotional well-being and quality of life for older adults living with dementia. - The keys to healthy aging start at any age
America is rapidly aging as the second largest generation, Baby Boomers, will be at least 65 by 2029. Texas A&M researchers are developing new ways to help older people tackle challenges that come with aging. - Research offers hope for patients facing Alzheimer’s
A nasal spray that can be administered to patients with Alzheimer’s could delay symptoms for years. - Smartphone-based program helps slow cognitive decline in older adults
A growing body of research indicates that older adults in assisted living facilities can delay or even prevent cognitive decline through interventions that combine multiple activities, such as improving diet, solving puzzles and increasing social interactions. - Nanoflowers show promise in healing brain cells and tackling neurogenerative diseases
Texas A&M AgriLife researchers have discovered nanoparticles that restore mitochondrial health, offering hope for new treatments targeting the roots of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
As the prevalence of dementia continues to rise, Texas A&M University stands at the forefront of innovative research and practical solutions. Faculty experts are available to offer insight and analysis on these and other topics related to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, supporting public awareness and reporting on one of the most urgent health challenges of our time.
