Healthy Aging & Alzheimer's Research Care - HAARC Center

07/29/2026

Last week, we were proud to attend the SHARE Network's 2nd Annual Brain Health Symposium at the Obama Foundation Presidential Center.

The symposium featured a community presentation by Dr. Masterani, Director of the The University of Chicago Medicine Memory Center, a brain health presentation from the Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter, and an enlightening panel discussion with clinicians and community members. We were also proud to see our Communication Bridge Research Program Coordinator, Karina Mak, join the Center for Disability and Elder Law to discuss legal and end-of-life planning considerations.

We enjoyed connecting with community members and catching up with several of our The ADNI Study and SuperAging Research Initiative participants!

Thank you to the SHARE Network for bringing the community together to learn, collaborate, and strengthen brain health across Chicago. We are proud to be part of a strong network of researchers, clinicians, community organizations, and advocates working together to advance brain health and healthy aging.

07/28/2026

New research from the SuperAging Research Initiative adds an important piece to our understanding of exceptional cognitive aging.

In a recently published study, researchers found that common genetic risk factors for Alzheimer's disease, including APOE and Alzheimer's polygenic risk scores, did not explain why SuperAgers maintain exceptional memory well into their 80s and beyond.

These findings suggest that other factors, including rare genetic variations and life experiences, may play an important role in supporting exceptional cognitive aging and highlight the need for continued research to better understand what helps some older adults maintain remarkable memory.

Read the full publication here: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s13195-026-02124-2

07/27/2026

Congratulations on another race down, Jason! Only 3 left to go until

07/23/2026

Caring for a loved one can be rewarding, but it can also be physically and emotionally demanding. One important reminder: taking care of yourself is not selfish.

Looking for support? These organizations offer valuable resources for caregivers:

• SHARE Network – Education, support groups, and programs for individuals and families affected by dementia. SHARE Network

• University of Chicago Medicine Memory Center – Clinical care, caregiver education, and support services. UChicago Medicine

• Illinois Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association – Local support groups, educational programs, a 24/7 Helpline, and community resources. Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter

• Family Caregiver Alliance – National caregiver resources, practical guidance, educational materials, and online support. Family Caregiver Alliance

07/23/2026

07/22/2026

🚨I'm headed west to take on Jack & Jill's Downhill Marathon: one of the most sought-after races in the country. ✈️

🏃🏻‍♂️It's so popular that they don't just race once...they race twice. Runners choose whether to tackle the course on Saturday or Sunday, and I'll be chasing another finish line this weekend to run against dementia in state #47. 🧠



Healthy Aging & Alzheimer's Research Care - HAARC Center

07/22/2026

The HAARC Center is proud to partner with Teresa's Place Adult Daycare for the 1st Annual Community Wellness & Resource Fair on Saturday, August 15. This free event will bring together community organizations, health and wellness resources, educational workshops, and opportunities to connect with local experts in a welcoming environment for older adults, caregivers, families, and the broader community.

We're especially excited that Tessa McEwen from The University of Chicago Memory Center will be presenting on legal and financial considerations for caregivers, offering practical guidance and resources to help families navigate important planning decisions.

We hope to see you there!

07/17/2026

Air quality has reached unhealthy levels in the Chicago area today due to smoke from Canadian wildfires. Combined with heat index values near 100 degrees, these conditions can pose serious health risks, especially for older adults.

Here are a few ways to stay safe:
• Limit time spent outdoors
• Stay indoors with windows closed and use air conditioning or an air purifier if available
• Check in on neighbors, family members, and friends. A well connected community is a safer community

A simple phone call or visit can make all the difference. Stay safe and take care of one another.

07/16/2026

The HAARC Center had a wonderful time at in London connecting with colleagues from around the world and learning about the latest advancements in Alzheimer's disease and brain health research. Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter Alzheimer's Association

We are especially proud of our HAARC Center faculty who shared their expertise as presenters throughout the conference.

Thank you to everyone who made this year's meeting such a valuable opportunity for collaboration, learning, and innovation. We're already looking forward to welcoming the global Alzheimer's research community to our home city for AAIC2027 in Chicago next summer!

07/16/2026

Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in August 2025, the Miracle on the Hudson’s Captain Sully shares details of what his life is like today in an exclusive PEOPLE story