Penn Memory Center scholar Shana Stites, PsyD, MA, MS recently joined the Alzheimer’s Association on WPHL-TV 17’s “In Focus” to discuss Alzheimer’s disease and the state of research at PMC.
(The segment on Alzheimer’s disease begins at 18:56.)
Dr. Stites and Fredericka Waugh, associate director, diversity and inclusion of the Alzheimer’s Association’s Delaware Valley chapter, were joined by Tom Brophy, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease at age 61.
Mr. Brophy relayed his personal experience. Ms. Waugh suggested viewers get involved in upcoming events such as The Longest Day. Dr. Stites explained how research seeks not just participants diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease but also those with an increased risk of developing the disease in their lifetime.
“We’re identifying biomarkers, which are biological indicators in our body that may or may not be associated with the causal pathway,” said Dr. Stites. “They’re markers that indicate that a person may be at an increased risk for developing the disease, and those include things like amyloid and tau.”
The episode of “In Focus” highlighted the importance and struggles of caregivers. PMC is dedicated to easing the stress of these individuals through programs such as caregiver classes and psychotherapy. (A full list of PMC programs can be found here.)
“In Focus” is a weekly 30-minute public affairs program produced by PHL17 (WPHL-TV) and hosted by Jennifer Lewis-Hall. The show focuses on topics involving the concerns and interests of residents of the Philadelphia region. “In Focus” airs Saturday mornings at 6:30 on PHL17.