The UCSF Memory and Aging Center (MAC) is a leader in research working toward eliminating Alzheimer’s disease, which affects more than 5 million Americans today.
Its mission is to provide the highest quality of care for individuals with cognitive problems, conduct research on the causes of and cures for degenerative diseases, and educate health professionals, patients and their families.
The Memory and Aging Center is hosting two events in which the campus community is invited to participate. The events allow people to socialize with fellow faculty and staff, while supporting Alzheimer’s research at the same time.
The center is hosting a talent show on Wednesday, Sept. 17, from 6 to 8 p.m. in Cole Hall on the Parnassus campus. The event is free, but a donation is requested from those attending.
There is still room in next week’s talent show for a few more performers. The current lineup includes faculty and staff playing classical music and singing opera. Organizers hope to fill the remaining slots with individuals who are classically trained to perform.
The Memory and Aging Center, in conjunction with the Alzheimer’s Association, is looking for folks to join the Alzheimer’s Memory Walk. The walk takes place on San Francisco’s Treasure Island on Saturday, Oct. 11. Registration begins at 8 a.m. and the walk starts at 9:30 a.m.
The Alzheimer’s Association, which is a national voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research, is sponsoring the annual trek to raise funds for and awareness of the disease. This year, nearly 200,000 people are expected to participate.
Members of the campus community can learn more about the Alzheimer’s Association and register for the walk by going to the UCSF team page of the Memory Walk website.
“It is especially important for people to sign up for the UCSF MAC Memory Walk Team, as a large portion of the funds we raise will directly benefit our center, contributing to continued care and hope for our patients,” says Laura J. Rhodes, research assistant and organizer of the event. “The Memory Walk is a great way to mingle with colleagues, bond with your friends and family, and show support for our patients and their caregivers.”
The center’s goal is to raise $10,000 and recruit 70 walkers.
UCSF is working on multiple fronts to increase awareness of and support for research on neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. In June, UCSF and YouTube launched an Internet video channel dedicated to improving understanding of incurable neurodegenerative diseases.
