In 2012, the Alzheimer’s Association and the Veterans’ Health Research Institute (NCIRE) initiated a collaborative effort. They brought together experts from both civilian and military research centers to explore the intriguing notion that the pathophysiological mechanisms of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) might be connected to an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), in veterans. This meeting was prompted by the growing body of evidence suggesting such a link. At the time, various projects were underway, funded by the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), aimed at better understanding the prevalence of these conditions and identifying the factors that could heighten the risk of dementia in veterans. Additionally, these initiatives sought to pinpoint biomarkers that might shed light on the pathogenic mechanisms behind these conditions, as well as characterize mild and moderate TBI and PTSD resulting from various causes of head trauma, including blunt force trauma and exposure to blasts from Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).
Expanding upon the discussions in 2012, and following the publication of a special issue of Alzheimer’s & Dementia in June 2014, which delved into military risk factors, the Alzheimer’s Association reconvened the scientific community on December 1, 2016. The purpose was to evaluate the progress made since 2012 and to identify remaining gaps in our understanding of the factors that may influence veterans’ risk for dementia later in life.
In the broader context of discussions about veterans’ health, it’s essential to recognize that many veterans, particularly those affected by neurodegenerative conditions, face a unique set of challenges. For some, the progression of dementia or other age-related conditions may necessitate transitioning to senior care communities. This transition can be a complex and emotionally charged decision for both the veterans themselves and their loved ones.