Healthpartners Center for Memory and Aging

11/27/2025

11/23/2025

☕ Happy National Espresso Day!
At the HealthPartners Center for Memory and Aging, we love the small daily rituals—like savoring a warm espresso—that spark joy and connection. Did you know emerging research suggests that moderate espresso intake may also support brain health?

Lab studies have found espresso compounds (including caffeine and antioxidants) can help inhibit tau-protein aggregation, a key feature in Alzheimer’s pathology. [scitechdaily.com], [nationalworld.com]
Observational data show that regular caffeinated (and unsweetened) coffee is linked to a 34% lower risk of Alzheimer’s and related dementias. [sciencealert.com]
Caffeine may help reduce brain inflammation, slow amyloid buildup, and improve memory and attention. [sciencenewstoday.org], [alzdiscovery.org]

While espresso isn’t a cure, today we’re celebrating how it can bring moments of comfort—and maybe even a little brain boost. What’s your favorite way to enjoy espresso?

11/20/2025

In case you missed it, check out this month's Caring for Someone with Memory Loss virtual education series! This month's topic was Guardianship:

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

11/17/2025

Have you seen our November newsletter yet? If not, check it out below and sign up to get it emailed directly to you here: https://hprfstudies.org/redcap/surveys/?s=TY78YYFF4WLM37E4
There's a screening opportunity TOMORROW November 18th!

11/13/2025

🌍💛 World Kindness Day – November 13 💛🌍
Today, let’s celebrate the power of small acts that make a big difference.
Kindness isn’t just a feeling—it’s a ripple that touches lives in ways we may never see. This year, let’s focus our kindness on those living with dementia and the growing number of seniors and families facing food insecurity.
🧠 Kindness for those with dementia:
Smile and make eye contact—connection matters.
Offer a listening ear, even if the story is repeated.
Volunteer at a memory care center or drop off comforting items like puzzles or music players.
Be patient. Kindness is understanding, even when words fail.

🥫 Kindness for our communities:
Donate what you can to a local pantry. They have incredible buying power with monetary donations.
Support organizations that provide meals to seniors and vulnerable families.
Share resources with neighbors—kindness is community.

🌱 In a world facing uncertainty, kindness is our most powerful tool. Let’s use it generously.

11/11/2025

Honoring Our Veterans This Veterans Day.
At the HealthPartners Center for Memory & Aging, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all veterans for their service and sacrifice.
We also recognize a unique reality: veterans face elevated risk for Alzheimer’s and dementia due to factors like traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD):

Studies show veterans with PTSD have nearly double the risk of developing dementia compared to those without PTSD. [alz.org], [mmrjournal...entral.com]
Exposure to TBI in service (including blast injuries) increases dementia risk by about 70%, with moderate/severe injuries further amplifying risk. [portal.alzimpact.org], [mmrjournal...entral.com]

Each story of service is also a journey toward brain health. On this Veterans Day, we honor your strength and remain committed to supporting veterans and families affected by memory concerns.
Thank you, veterans. Your courage inspires our mission.

11/06/2025

A fun and informative research opportunity for anyone!

Does a cup of coffee last you all day or just long enough to get through the morning? Your genes could be the reason.

The myGenetics research study can help you understand your genes and reveal health traits like how your body processes caffeine: https://bit.ly/3WiIr0y

11/04/2025

November is recognized as National Family Caregivers Month and Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month. This month honors the significant role that family caregivers play in supporting loved ones with health needs, as well as raising awareness about the challenges faced by individuals living with Alzheimer's and other dementias. Caregivers provide invaluable support, often sacrificing their own well-being to assist their loved ones, and it is important to recognize their contributions and offer them resources and support during this time.

November is . Throughout the month, we will celebrate the strength and dedication of dementia caregivers. Share a tribute in honor of a special caregiver in your life at alz.org/honor.

10/31/2025

🎃🧠 Happy Halloween from the Center for Memory and Aging 👟🥦🧩

While the costumes and candy are fun, we’re also here with a friendly reminder: brain health doesn’t have to be scary!

Research shows that staying active, eating well, and connecting with others can help support cognitive health — no tricks, just science. 🧠💪

So whether you're walking the neighborhood, laughing with friends, or enjoying a dark chocolate treat, you're doing your brain a favor.

Here’s to a healthy, happy Halloween! 🧡💜

10/29/2025

🐾 Happy National Cat Day from HealthPartners CMA! 🐱💙

Our colleagues are sharing snapshots of their favorite feline coworkers — whether they’re stealing chairs, walking across keyboards, or just looking cute on camera.

Here’s to the cats who keep us company (and maybe a little distracted) while we care for others. 🐾

10/21/2025

Check out this article from Nature- it's a brief look at some of the advancements made by researchers regarding Alzheimer's disease.

Breakthrough therapies, new diagnostics and preventive measures for fighting a devastating disease.