CHICAGO: The Northwestern University in Chicago is conducting a longitudinal research study to determine what factors help keep older individuals highly functional as they progress through the aging process.
The researchers Sandra Weintraub, PhD and Emily Rogalski PhD, who are part of the research team at Northwestern University, made two presentations on “Alzheimer Prevention and SuperAging’ for the Northside Providers in Chicago last week. They were invited by Paula Basta, the Regional Director – Northeast ( Levy) Senior Center.
Some findings about the research project are published in the Journal of Neuroscience, on January 28. The study aims to quantify brain differences of SuperAgers and normal older people.
The researchers have identified that SuperAgers, aged 80 and above, have distinctly different looking brains than those of normal older people.
SuperAgers involved in the research project have memories that are as sharp as those of healthy persons decades younger.
This research project is funded by the National Institute of Health. I asked the researchers from the Northwestern University how large is their research cohort. They informed audience at Northside Providers Meeting that they expect to have about 5,000 participants in 75 academic institutions and hospitals across the Nation. Northwestern University, as one of the leading medical research institutions, is a part of a National Network.
Researchers are still looking for SuperAging candidates who are in 80s, 90s – who are very active either physically or intellectually who can contribute to their research.
When researchers presented their SuperAging project – I immediately thought about several my older friends, mentors, leaders that I have known for years. They are doing amazing, incredible projects. I plan to bring this research project to their attention for possible consideration.
I have already a permission from Ambassador Ed Rowny, I informed him about the research project, his is not part a research, to share his video about ‘Overcoming Dissability’. He will turn 98 years of age in April. He still writes, publishes books, articles, organizes concerts to raise funds for students, does public presentations (without written notes). He has remarkable memory. He always sets new goals for himself and organizations that he is involved. I am always eager to hear about his next projects.
Please go to YouTube station to see Amb. Ed Rowny interview on Overcoming Disability
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yLbZ290hXYI
@ Andrew Mikolajczyk