2026 Brain Health Symposium Programme

Join us as we explore the forefront of brain health with Brain Health Aotearoa’s exceptional lineup of virtual seminars, where renowned experts delve into the latest research and practical advice for living well.

9am – 10am

Comparing the effects of a current and potential medication for Alzheimer’s disease on a novel cognitive task

Presented by Alexander Matthews

Being able to stay focused and mentally engaged is essential for everyday life, from following a conversation to safely crossing the road or navigating a busy shop. In Alzheimer’s disease, this ability often breaks down early, and it can be one of the hardest changes for people with dementia | mate wareware and their whānau to navigate.

Connections in the brain involving the chemical messenger acetylcholine (the cholinergic system) play a central role in supporting attention. These pathways break down during the progression of Alzheimer’s, and drugs that target them are regularly prescribed to people living with the condition. Excitingly, there is growing evidence that these drugs may not only reduce day-to-day symptoms but also slow the underlying disease progression. There are many receptor types within the cholinergic system and different ways we can target them, which opens the door to a wide range of treatment strategies. In our research, we tested how drugs acting on different parts of this system affect attention using a well-established behavioural task.

The talk will present preliminary findings that may point toward new ways to support cognition in people living with Alzheimer’s in the noisy reality of everyday life.

10:30am – 12 noon

How to keep your Brain healthy

Presented by Winifred Henderson

Why is it important to keep our brain healthy, and how do we go about it? Are there things that we can do to potentially prevent, or delay the onset of dementia? Presented by Winifred Henderson (Senior Educator, Dementia New Zealand) and taking place during International Brain Health Awareness Month, this presentation will explore brain health and provide tips and strategies for maintaining a healthy brain.