Sharing science of the mind in Sisters

Retired neurologist Bob Collins of the newly formed Sisters Science Club shared an hour-long discussion about memory loss and Alzheimer's disease with more than 80 residents of Sisters Country in the Community Room of the Sisters Fire Hall last Monday.

Collins shared recent evidence on how concussions can eventually lead to dementia, as well as new ideas about Alzheimer's causes and treatments.

Continued physical punishment to the brain in various sporting events may eventually lead to serious memory loss, and eventually to dementia.

During his discussion he showed images of samples of the brain of athletes who had suffered severe brain trauma, which eventually led to serious problems with brain function.

Collins also discussed the use of a variety of drugs as a possible method of helping patients with AD to regain brain function. As Collins explained each development in the brain that leads to memory loss and serious brain dysfunction, he stated that the biggest problem science faces in coping with these issues is that there just isn't enough known.

During the discussion, Collins stated that the goals of the Sisters Science Club is to recognize individuals in Sisters County who have the talents and the willingness to contribute their knowledge to students and adults of the community through personal interaction. He also pointed out that the Sisters Science Club doesn't want to push anyone into learning or teaching, but invite those who are interested to take advantage of what the science club has to offer.

What's on the docket for the next Sisters Science Cub presentation to be held in the Community Room of the Sisters Fire Hall?

"That's what we want to hear from the residents of the Sisters Country," Collins said. If you have ideas for future presentations, visit www.sistersscienceclub.org and follow the link to contacting Bob Collins or Cal Allen.