Michele Callisaya

Type 2 Diabetes is known to be a significant risk factor for dementia, and it has been suggested that vascular disease may be the common cause of both conditions. Greater physical activity is associated with better brain function and is also recommended for people with Type 2 Diabetes to reduce cardiovascular risk. However, it is currently unknown whether an exercise intervention can preserve or improve brain health in people with Type 2 Diabetes. 

The aim of Dr Callisaya’s project is to examine whether a six-month exercise program can preserve brain health in people aged 50-70 years with Type 2 Diabetes. Dr Callisaya will also evaluate whether this occurs by improving vascular health. If successful, this study will provide a strong basis for targeting people with Type 2 Diabetes (as a high-risk group) with structured exercise interventions to reduce their dementia risk. It will also provide new insights into the vascular basis of both conditions.

Dr Callisaya is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Vascular Brain Ageing Division of the Stroke and Ageing Research group at Monash University’s Southern Clinical School.