In this ISLAND Newsletter

• Traumatic Brain Injury as a risk factor for dementia
• World Parkinson's Day and The Tasmanian Parkinson's Project
• Research update: Meet the researcher
• Upcoming events: Agfest and state-wide seminars

Traumatic Brain Injury as a risk factor for dementia

With the Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Massive Online Course (MOOC) starting today, Monday 25^th March, we thought it was a perfect time to discuss TBI and its complex relationship with dementia.

TBI refers to a sudden physical injury to the brain caused by external force, such as a blow or jolt to the body or head that leads to changes in the brain. TBI is more than just the initial impact and leads to a variety of changes to cells of the brain that can continue for years. 

Research indicates that individuals who have experienced a TBI, especially moderate to severe injuries, are at an increased risk of developing dementia later in life. It is extremely important to note that not everyone who experiences a TBI will develop dementia. The severity of the injury, along with individual factors such as age, genetics, and comorbidities, can influence the likelihood of developing dementia. Nonetheless, understanding the link between TBI and dementia is crucial for early intervention in at-risk individuals.

If you would like to learn more, the online course is free, easily accessible and available to everyone with an interest in TBI, neuroscience or brain health.

World Parkinson's Day and The Tasmanian Parkinson's Project

April 11 is World Parkinson’s Day.

Did you know that there are an estimated 3000 people with Parkinson’s Disease in Tasmania and around 200,000 in Australia?

Despite these numbers, there is currently no cure or drug to slow down its progression. Parkinson’s is a progressive, degenerative condition of the brain. It is the fastest growing neurological disease in the world, and only second to dementia in terms of current numbers. It is more common than breast, lung and prostate cancer combined. 

Common visible symptoms include stiff muscles, slowness of movement, a tremor, difficulty with walking and a soft voice. However, there are many unseen symptoms including anxiety, fatigue, pain, sleep disturbances, loss of smell, constipation and cognitive impairment.

Last month ISLAND participants were invited to the Tasmanian Parkinson Project launch at a University of Tasmania community symposium. The project aims to improve the lives of people with Parkinson's through research, education and raising awareness in the community. Anyone with or without Parkinson’s in Tasmania can sign up to find out about upcoming seminars and research projects. You can learn more, sign up and watch some of the symposium speakers by going to the website:  https://parkinsons.utas.edu.au/  

The Tasmanian Parkinson’s Project is a collaboration between the University of Tasmania’s College of Health and Medicine (Wicking, Menzies, Medicine, Health Sciences and Psychological Science) and the WINGS for Parkinson’s special interest group.

Dr Mimieveshiofuo Aiyede, Research Officer

Dr Aiyede is passionate about developing innovative approaches to detect and mitigate cognitive decline associated with dementia. She is also interested in understanding the complexities of neurodegenerative diseases and exploring potential therapeutics.

Dr Aiyede is currently researching the Tasmania test (TAS Test), which we highlighted in last month's newsletter, and TapTalk smartphone app test. These are groundbreaking screening tools that utilise artificial intelligence technology to assess motor-cognitive functions and identify early signs of Alzheimer’s disease. Early detection of Alzheimer’s disease pathologies is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies. In the next phase of this study, Dr Aiyede and her team at the Wicking Dementia Centre will evaluate the usability and reliability of the TapTalk smartphone app among ISLAND participants.

Outside of her research, Dr Aiyede enjoys hiking and exploring nature with her family. She also delights in preparing delicious meals and hosting dinner parties. She has two chickens named Goldie and Brownie and they provide fresh eggs for her daily.

AGFEST 2024

The ISLAND Team will be a part of Health Stop at AGFEST this year. If you are around, come and chat to one of our researchers. We will have information on the modifiable risk factors and opportunities for people to complete a dementia risk profile so if you know someone who would be interested please send them our way!

State-wide seminars

We have some exciting news! The ISLAND Team are in the process of planning this year's state-wide seminars. Last year we had a great time meeting participants and talking all things ISLAND with you. We see this as an opportunity to thank you in person for all you are doing and will be visiting Hobart, Launceston and Burnie again this year. Stay tuned for more information on when and where.

The University of Tasmania received funding from the Australian Government. Views and conclusions expressed in this publication are those of its authors, and may not be the same as those held by the Department of Health.

CRICOS Provider Code: 00586B | ABN 30 764 374 782