Alzheimer's Association Cleveland Area Chapter

New research, partially funded by the Alzheimer’s Association and presented at , suggests a future where primary care physicians could use a highly accurate blood test to help diagnose—or rule out—Alzheimer's in people experiencing memory and thinking problems.

In a head-to-head comparison, researchers found blood test results enabled primary care physicians to diagnose Alzheimer’s with nearly the same accuracy (90 percent) as specialists.

Knowing the blood test results led doctors to change diagnoses or care management decisions for more than half of primary care patients and nearly half of specialty care patients.

Here’s why that gives us hope: People experiencing memory and thinking problems often face long waits and multiple referrals before receiving a diagnosis. As part of a doctor's evaluation for memory and thinking problems, accurate blood tests could help bring answers sooner—opening the door to earlier and better treatment, care and planning.

As you gather with family and friends over the long Fourth of July weekend know we’re here for you if you need us. Call our free 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900.

Happy Fourth of July! 🎆 We’re here if you need us. Call our 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900.

🏌️‍♂️ Every time a golfer tees up a ball at the Miles for Mary Lee tournament, there's a small detail that holds a lot of meaning — the logo on the golf ball was crafted from Mary Lee Morrison's signature from her wedding certificate.

“My mother was a very kind person who would do anything for anybody,” shared Mickey. “She was a great cook and loved baking. She ran us all over town for our extracurricular activities. She was a great mother.”

At first, the signs of the disease in Mary Lee were easy to dismiss — a forgotten name here, a confused moment there. But when she began asking who her own children were, her family knew something was deeply wrong. Mary Lee passed away in March 2020.

The year after Mickey lost his mother to the disease, his sister Sanda participated in Walk to End Alzheimer’s in their hometown of Spartanburg, South Carolina. Inspired by her action, Mickey donated to her team and thought “I need to get involved.”

In 2022, Mickey organized his first fundraiser — a 20-mile trek through the hills of North Georgia in the heat of summer to raise funds for the Alzheimer’s Association. Shortly after, his son, Parker, suggested adding a golf tournament and Miles for Mary Lee was born.

What started with 24 players has grown into an annual event with nearly 100 participants and a few corporate sponsors. Mickey especially loves making the opening remarks before the players head out. “I point out that I am doing this to honor my mother and so that my grandkids won’t have to deal with Alzheimer’s.”

💜 Join us in thanking Mickey and the countless other Do What You Love to End ALZ participants who are making a difference and learn how you can too at alz.org/dowhatyoulove.

BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse is fighting to end Alzheimer’s as the 8th Annual Proud Supporter of Do What You Love to End ALZ! Now through July 31, BJ’s guests who donate $1 or more to the Alzheimer’s Association at the end of their meal will receive a coupon for a FREE Pizookie® on their next visit. bit.ly/3MRrlC8