19 BAYCREST | 2024
PARTNERSHIPS FOR BRAIN HEALTH
The Kimel Centre is the flagship dementia prevention
location of the Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration
in Aging (CCNA), a research initiative comprising more
than 300 researchers across Canada. Together, we're
working on a Brain Health PRO online education project to
support people in improving their diet, exercise, and other
strategies for preventing dementia.
Initially, the project followed 350 people across Canada
who were enrolled in a 12-month program. In the next
phase of testing, Kimel Centre members will receive in-
person programs and also use Brain Health PRO. Their
progress will be compared to that of another 600 people
across Canada who will only receive Brain Health PRO. By
tracking activities, fitness regimes, and sleep patterns,
our scientists will learn if this online program is an option
that individuals can stick to, and whether they can alter
their behaviours for the better.
Researchers and scientists from across the country will also
have access to the Kimel Centre, opening the potential for
exciting and promising new research and treatments.
HEATHY GUT, HEALTHY BRAIN
Gum and mouth, gut, and brain health are related because
abnormal bacteria in the mouth and gut can produce
inflammation that affects the brain. A new study is
analyzing the microbiome (DNA from the bacteria) of the
mouth and gums in individuals with Alzheimer's disease
and early forms of memory loss. The study hopes to
demonstrate that a distinguishable subgroup of people
with Alzheimer's disease show evidence of inflammation of
the gums, and that this might require distinct therapies to
delay progression of brain disease. Our researchers want
to identify how a healthy gut, exercise and nutrition are
connected to brain health, and, hopefully, motivate people
to lead healthier lifestyles.
