A Boise State University scientist and noted Alzheimer’s researcher gave talks about Alzheimer’s disease in three Idaho cities in November and December.
Troy Rohn, professor of biological sciences and a charter member of the Idaho Alzheimer’s Planning Group (IAPG), talked with caregivers and other interested parties about how the disease progresses in patients and why Idaho should make it a public policy priority. The IAPG is a project of Boise State’s Center for the Study of Aging. The IAPG’s mission is to improve the spectrum of prevention, diagnosis, treatment and caregiver support services for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
Rohn spoke in Lewiston, Idaho Falls and Twin Falls.
“Now that Baby Boomers are entering retirement age in record numbers, the number of Alzheimer’s patients is going to dramatically increase over time,” Rohn said. “Idaho needs to do all it can to make sure these patients and their caregivers get the help they need in ways that do not overwhelm our public health system and our state budget.”
In his talks, Rohn addressed the major pathological “troublemakers” associated with Alzheimer’s and the molecular-level changes that occur throughout the course of the disease. He also discussed treatment strategies currently in clinical trials and the work the planning group is doing to bring about a state plan for Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
Rohn’s speaking engagements include:
- Nov. 15 – “Forget Me Not: An Alzheimer’s Project Conference.” 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 1212 19th Street, Lewiston, Idaho.
- Nov. 29 – “Out of the Dark: The Cause and Effects of Alzheimer’s disease.” 9 a.m. to noon at 1250 Hollipark Drive, Idaho Falls.
- Dec. 1 – “The Alzheimer’s, Dementia and Traumatic Brain Injury Caregivers Conference.” 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Herrett Center, College of Southern Idaho, Twin Falls.
In addition to these talks, Rohn, along with several members of the IAPG, gave a presentation on Nov. 17 to the Health Care Task Force of the Idaho State Legislature. This group, comprised of seven senators and seven representatives, reviews health care issues and makes recommendations related to health care legislation for the state.