Brain Train

Community Contributed 

By Mercy Ritte

In an effort to expand Alzheimer’s and dementia research in native communities, Justina Tavana and her team of researchers from Brigham Young University’s Natives Engaged in Alzheimer’s Research program brought the Brain Train study to Molokai on Nov. 1 and 2. Funded by the National Institute on Aging, this initiative aims to develop culturally tailored research and treatments for Alzheimer’s and dementia specifically for American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander populations. The event on Molokai offered local residents an opportunity to learn about Alzheimerʻs and dementia research and to participate in a brain health screening. This milestone event highlighted the importance of this research, especially in underserved communities, and the need for awareness, early detection, and culture specific interventions for prevention and care.

Mahalo to Keoni Kauwe, the president of Brigham Young University – Hawaii, ʻAina Momona for your support, and the following Molokai volunteers: Sui Ritte, Kayla Shaw, Haunani Madela, Kilia Purdy-Avelino, Jesseca Kalawe-Oswald, Michael Arce, Kealani Manglicmot, and Anne Steinke! And mahalo to Naʻike for preparing a healthy lunch for each participant.

If you’re 50 or older, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, and have memory concerns or a family history of dementia, contact Mercy Ritte at ʻAina Momona at mercyritte@gmail.com or 808-658-1303 to join the next Brain Train event.