Highlights from the past year
The Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (ADRC) primarily focuses on improving early detection of Alzheimer’s disease, identifying risk and protective factors, and finding ways to delay onset and progression. Much of the center’s science is based on a wealth of information made possible by the commitment of the research volunteers and families involved in the longitudinal Wisconsin ADRC Clinical Core and the Wisconsin ADRC Research Recruitment Registry.
We are devoted to educating the community about the latest updates in Alzheimer's disease research through our outreach events, newsletters, podcast and direct discussion with our research participants. Highlights from the past year include:
As the year comes to a close, we wish to thank you for your dedication to improving the lives of people living with memory impairment, dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, their caregivers, and their loved ones. On behalf of our investigators, leadership and staff, thank you for your support of Wisconsin ADRC.
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Dr. Sterling Johnson awarded Vilas Distinguished Achievement Professorship
Sterling Johnson, PhD, has been awarded a Vilas Distinguished Achievement Professorship, an appointment given to extraordinary members of the University of Wisconsin–Madison faculty. Johnson, a clinical neuropsychologist, is associate director and biomarker core leader in the Wisconsin ADRC and leads the Wisconsin Registry for Alzheimer’s Prevention (WRAP). The award provides five years of flexible funding and recognizes distinguished scholarship and standout teaching and service efforts. Learn more
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Dr. Ozioma Okonkwo appointed to NIA-AA Alzheimer’s workgroup
Ozioma Okonkwo, PhD, has been appointed to participate in a National Institute on Aging (NIA) Alzheimer’s and Alzheimer’s Association workgroup, establishing the definition and classification of Alzheimer’s disease. Okonkwo is an investigator in the Wisconsin ADRC, and his research lab focuses on clarifying how alterations in the brain and other biomolecules place some cognitively normal individuals on a harmful trajectory that culminates in probable Alzheimer’s disease. Learn more
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Indigenous populations face a high economic and health burden from Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias
Adrienne Johnson, PhD, and Carey Gleason, PhD, MS, recently weighed in on the significant health and financial burden from Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias on Indigenous people living in Wisconsin and throughout the nation. The researchers said the study’s findings exemplify the potential benefits of offering programs to prevent, accurately diagnose, and treat Alzheimer’s and related dementias among Indigenous adults. Learn more
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Top 5 'Dementia Matters' episodes of the past year
Dementia Matters celebrated its 5th anniversary this year. In 2022, 31 episodes were released on topics ranging from alcohol’s effect on the brain to the need to diversify Alzheimer’s disease research and data. Based on listener downloads, here is a list of the five most popular Dementia Matters episodes of the past year.
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Seasonal Affective Disorder: Symptoms, causes and prevention tips
The winter solstice occurred on December 21, officially marking the first day of winter. Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression that typically occurs during winter months. A lack of sunlight and cold weather seem to be triggering factors for this condition. TMJ4 Milwaukee explains symptoms and causes and offers advice on preventing the winter blues with input from UW Health. Learn more
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More events and information
 Mind Readers book club
The next book club discussion will take place in early 2023 and cover Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams by Matthew Walker, PhD. Visit the webpage to learn more about the book and watch for updates.
Get Movin’ exercise classes
A gentle exercise program for every fitness level held in person and online via Zoom. Classes are free and open to the public and will resume on January 12, 2023.
‘Determined: Fighting Alzheimer’s'
Now on PBS’s NOVA and streaming for free online, the independent documentary follows three participants from the Wisconsin Registry for Alzheimer’s Prevention (WRAP) and includes interviews with scientists from the University of Wisconsin–Madison Alzheimer’s disease research programs.
Nature Hikes
Geared for adults, the UW–Madison Arboretum offers free guided hikes to learn about the land, plants, animals, fungi, phenology and ecology.
BIPOC Birding Club of Wisconsin
Do you love the outdoors, birds and natural beauty of Wisconsin? Field trips and events are open to BIPOC birders and allies of all skill levels and interests.
The All-Time Greatest UW Playlist
Some of the greatest songs by artists Badgers can proudly call their own.
Badger Talks
Free programs presented by UW faculty, staff and graduate students designed to spark ideas and conversations.
Ojibwe Storytelling Series
In Ojibwe culture, winter is storytelling season. The Wisconsin Historical Society is celebrating by featuring Ojibwe storytellers in a four-part virtual series every Tuesday evening at 7 p.m. on January 10, 17, 24 and 31. Free and open to the public.
Virtual Memory Screenings
The Alzheimer's Foundation of America offers free virtual memory screenings, allowing individuals to receive one-on-one, confidential memory screenings from a qualified professional using their computer, smartphone or tablet.
Wisconsin State Dementia Plan Steering Committee
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services invites the public to advise and support the implementation of the 2024-2028 Wisconsin State Dementia Plan by filling out and submitting a short survey.
Become a Memorable Friend
Contributions to the UW Initiative to End Alzheimer’s support prevention and treatment strategies, help people recognize symptoms, improve care and benefit researchers at the University of Wisconsin–Madison seeking a cure for Alzheimer’s disease.
Come work with us
The Wisconsin ADRC and its campus partners seek applicants to fill several open positions.
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