Driving research on successful aging and neuroprotection in Latin America: Insights from the inaugural symposium on brain resilience and healthy longevity

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Global life expectancy has steadily increased in recent decades, resulting in a significant rise in the number of individuals aged 80 years and older. This trend is also evident in Latin America, where life expectancy is improving, though at varying rates across countries and regions. METHODS: Partnering with the Neurosciences Group of Antioquia (GNA), we launched a Colombian study on resilience in families with autosomal dominant Alzheimer's disease and the oldest-old population. Over the past 2 years, the project has expanded to include participants from Peru, Chile, and Costa Rica. RESULTS: This research led to the first symposium on Brain Resilience and Healthy Longevity, held in Medellín, Colombia, in August 2024. DISCUSSION: The article summarizes key discussions from the symposium, highlighting the most promising opportunities for brain resilience and prevention research in the region and offering recommendations for future research to promote healthy aging and dementia-free communities. Highlights: Uncovering the genetic and physiological drivers of cognitive resilience, neurodegeneration resistance, and healthy longevity is essential for maintaining brain function as we age. “Superagers” and cognitively resilient individuals from Latin American families with Alzheimer's disease offer valuable insights into brain protection mechanisms. Studying the interplay of socio-environmental and genetic factors in the oldest-old is key to understanding healthy longevity and improving dementia prevention. The inaugural Brain Resilience and Healthy Longevity Symposium highlights the need for global collaboration to uncover factors that drive cognitive resilience and healthy aging in Latin America, advancing dementia prevention.