Avera Research Institute Participating in Sleep Study for Individuals with Alzheimer's Disease

Sioux Falls - The Avera Research Institute is enrolling patients in a clinical study to determine the effectiveness of an investigational medication in treating sleep-disturbed individuals with mild to moderately severe Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Men and women who are at least 55 years of age, with a probable diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or clinical diagnosis of the Alzheimer's type of dementia may be eligible for this study. Participants who qualify will receive all study-related care at no cost, including a physical examination, EKG, laboratory evaluations and all study-related medications. The Avera Research Institute is one of approximately 100 sites in the United States participating in the study.

Affecting an estimated 4.2 million people in the United States, Alzheimer's disease is characterized by progressive memory loss and impairments in behavior and language. Individuals with AD dementia frequently experience disturbed sleep patterns characterized by insufficient nocturnal sleep and excessive daytime napping. These sleep patterns have been associated with impaired daytime functioning, agitation, and nocturnal wandering. It is estimated that as much as forty-seven percent of AD patients experience disrupted sleep patterns.

Individuals interested in the study may contact Christi Hinker, RNC, at (605) 322-3084 or toll-free at (888) 634-7268. Learn more about the Avera Research Institute at www.avera-research.org.

About Avera McKennan

Our ministry, our people and our superior value distinguish Avera. We carry on the healthcare legacy of the Benedictine and Presentation Sisters, delivering care in an environment guided by our values of compassion, hospitality and stewardship. Avera McKennan colleagues work for the largest health system in the region. The Avera network has some 11,500 employees and physicians, serving 215 locations and 82 communities in a five-state region. Inpatient and clinic visits totaled upwards of 1,890,000 in the last fiscal year, a number equal to nearly twice the population of the Avera service area.