Activities

The CAC has assisted with various Center efforts focused on Alzheimer’s safety, lifestyle changes, education, research and retention. The CAC partnerships have actively “opened doors” to make connections for recruitment into ADC-sponsored clinical research projects. These partnerships have led to community presentations for diverse community groups, such as the “60+ Veterans” group, urban and suburban church groups, and senior housing resident organizations.

The CAC has also supported important educational events in the community, such as the annual Alzheimer’s Association’s African American Forum. The forum regularly attracts up to 300 participants, including most CAC members, many of whom volunteer to help serve meals or assist with health fair booths.

Finally, the CAC has also informed research and program evaluation for senior wellness programs that have the potential of improving not only physical health, but also brain health. Based on community partners’ expressed needs, the CAC has provided initial evaluation for an innovative program on exercise and nutrition for African American elders: the Boston Housing Authority’s “Put a Swing in your Life” golf program. This evaluation provided the basis for a successful BU ADC pilot grant proposal (Maureen O’Connor, PI) to conduct a clinical trial of the program measuring key participant outcomes.