Alzheimer's Disease, Dementias and Healthy Aging

April Newsletter

Protect Your Eyes During the Solar Eclipse



On April 8th, a total solar eclipse will darken the daytime skies of both Northern Vermont and Northern New Hampshire. The partial eclipse should begin sometime after 2 pm in both states, depending on location. A little more than an hour later, the full eclipse will set in and last for approximately three minutes. Never stare directly at the eclipse!

Dementias are More Common in Older Adults with Vision Issues

A recent study lends further weight to the theory that vision problems and dementia are linked. In a sample of nearly 3,000 older adults who took vision tests and cognitive tests during home visits, the risk of dementia was much higher among those with eyesight problems – including those who weren’t able to see well even when they were wearing their usual eyeglasses or contact lenses. The research was published recently in JAMA Ophthalmology by a team from the Kellogg Eye Center at Michigan Medicine, the University of Michigan’s academic medical center. 

Public Health Grand Rounds

RN led Medicare Annual Wellness Visits

May 8, 2024 8:30 - 9:30 AM

The Medicare Annual Wellness visit (AWV) is underutilized. The AWV is a vital tool for creating/updating a patient's healthcare plan and for cognitive assessments. Join us for a Public Health Grand Rounds presentation which reviews the utility and importance of the AWV. Learn more about the nurse-led AWV – content, reimbursement and outcomes.

Our presenter, Dr. Jason Garbarino has a 16-year career in nursing, all within the State of Vermont. Jason’s extensive experience includes an 11-year tenure as a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Vermont, where he served as Vice Chair/Director of the Undergraduate Nursing Program.

This Public Health Grand Rounds will be offered in virtual format only.

Huntington's disease (HD) is an inherited disorder that causes nerve cells (neurons) in parts of the brain to gradually break down and die. HD causes deterioration in a person’s physical, mental, and emotional abilities and currently has no cure. Most people start developing symptoms during adulthood, between the ages of 30 to 50, but HD can also occur in children and young adults (known as juvenile HD or JHD). Symptoms vary but often include: personality changes, mood swings, forgetfulness, impaired judgement and involuntary movements. HD results in a form of dementia, an umbrella term that includes several neurocognitive disorders. The Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA) is the premier nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of everyone affected by Huntington’s disease. From community services and education to advocacy and research, HDSA is the world’s leader in providing help for today, hope for tomorrow for people with Huntington’s disease and their families.

COVID’s Toll on the Brain: New Clues Emerge

The loss of the sense of smell, taste, headaches and memory problems have been hallmark symptoms of COVID-19. The virus can bring about a troubling storm of neurological symptoms that make everyday tasks difficult. Now new research adds to the evidence that inflammation in the brain might underlie these symptoms.

The 2024 Gerontology Symposium:

Navigating End-of-Life Care and Transitions

Tuesday, May 7, 2024

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel

Burlington, Vermont

The conference is designed to present topics and information relevant for professionals who work with older adults, as well as family caregivers.

The keynote presentation, Here Together: Building Connections in

End-of-Life Care, will be delivered by Dr. Jaina Clough.

FREE Health Related Trainings for

Vermont Community Health Workers

NEWLY ADDED COURSES:

• Introduction to Brain Health Basics
• Working with Clients Living with Dementia

Other Courses Available:

Chronic Conditions, High Blood Pressure, Prediabetes, Diabetes, Asthma, Breast Cancer, Cervical Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Cholesterol Basics, and COVID-19

Use the button below for course descriptions and to register with a VT zip code.

Call for Conference Speakers

2024 Worksite Wellness Awards and Conference planning committee is seeking dynamic, engaging speakers for 8 break out sessions of 45 minutes each. The statewide conference convenes wellness experts that can help VT employers create workplaces that promote employee well-being. Historical attendance of the conference has been 350-500 participants, with the most recent conference held in 2023.

If you or someone you know is interested, please email:

Stephanie.Bergen@vermont.gov for additional information and a copy of the Request for Proposals (due by COB, 4/12/24).

Conference Date & Location: 

October 10, 2024

DoubleTree by Hilton

870 Williston Road

South Burlington, VT 05403