Generation Reinvention # 8 :The Future of the Aging Brain

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One thing every one of us has in common is we’re aging. And so are our brains. The language we use to describe inevitabilities of brain aging tap into the deepest reservoirs of fear: senior moments, dementia, loss of self, and even organic brain dysfunction. In particular, we think of two words with unspoken angst: Alzheimer’s disease.

In The Myth of Alzheimer’s: What You Aren’t Being Told About Today’s Most Dreaded Diagnosis, Dr. Peter Whitehouse and his coauthor, Daniel George, address the very foundation of our cultural and social relationships to the most dreaded disease of modern times. The victims of this malady face ostracism, institutionalization, isolation, loneliness, and dependency.

The perpetrators of the myths, such as pharmaceutical companies, are comfortable with our collective fears because fears inspire research budgets, drug sales, elaborate diagnostic testing protocols, and nicely decorated prison facilities. Through this book and related projects Dr. Whitehouse hopes to transform our thinking about brain aging.

Above all, the myths perpetrators create another class of human being, the unfortunate mortals who are less-than-fully human because of diminishing memories, communication skills, and competency with the activities of daily living. They are dying brains without hearts.

Dr. Whitehouse joins host Brent Green to discuss current understanding of cognitive aging, what we need to know about the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease, how to take control of brain aging and improve our chances to be mentally viable across the lifespan, and the future of brain aging as scientists continue to advance our understanding.

Dr. Whitehouse is a Professor of Neurology at Case Western Reserve University, as well as former Professor of Cognitive Science, Psychiatry, Neuroscience, Psychology, Nursing, Organizational Behavior, Bioethics and History. He received his undergraduate degree from Brown University and MD-PhD (Psychology) from The Johns Hopkins University followed by a Fellowship in Neuroscience and Psychiatry and a faculty appointment at Hopkins.

In 1999, he founded with his wife, Catherine, The Intergenerational School, a unique public multiage, community school. This award-winning school serves learners of all ages from Cleveland and the surrounding suburbs and is committed to excellence in life-long learning and spirited citizenship.

Please click the image on the left to check out his book at Amazon