Access Press

08/07/2025

KIMT reports that a large two-year study found that older adults can slow cognitive decline through regular exercise, healthy eating, brain challenges, and social engagement. Participants who followed a structured version of this lifestyle plan showed cognitive benefits equal to being up to two years younger.

(CNN) — At 62, Phyllis Jones felt trapped in darkness. She was traumatized by her mother’s recent death, ongoing pandemic stress and an increasingly toxic work environment. A sudden panic

08/07/2025

The CBS News Minnesota reports that Mayo Clinic researchers have developed a novel AI-powered diagnostic tool that significantly improves early detection of cancers by analyzing complex imaging data. The breakthrough shows promise in increasing diagnostic accuracy and reducing time to treatment for patients.

Doctors at the Mayo Clinic are using artificial intelligence to achieve a breakthrough in diagnosing pancreatic cancer. In Talking Points, Esme Murphy explains the remarkable development and the potential impact on other cancers.

08/07/2025

Mother Jones reports that the U.S. Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled on July 28, 2025, that private individuals and organizations cannot bring lawsuits under Section 208 of the Voting Rights Act for disability‑based voting assistance violations—only government entities can file such cases

The conservative Eighth Circuit restricted voting rights enforcement to state officials—even in notoriously anti-voter states.

08/07/2025

The national Special Olympics games come to Minnesota one year from now. Get involved and learn about a major sponsor.

The national Special Olympics games come to Minnesota one year from now. Get involved and learn about a major sponsor.

08/07/2025

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08/06/2025

The University of Minnesota CIDRAP reports a rare but severe form of flu-related encephalitis in children, characterized by rapid brain swelling and neurological complications. Though uncommon, the condition has led to hospitalizations and highlights the importance of early flu prevention and vigilance in pediatric care.

A case series describes 41 US children with influenza-related acute necrotizing encephalopathy (ANE) that killed 27% of them—despite receiving multiple treatments and most of them being previously healthy—during the 2023-24 and 2024-25 respiratory virus seasons.

08/06/2025

The Associated Press reports that a surge in COVID‑19 cases this summer, alongside increased flu and common cold activity, is raising concerns for strained healthcare capacity across the U.S. Public health officials are urging vaccinations and preventive practices to minimize seasonal illness impacts.

COVID-19 activity is rising in much of the country. Data released Friday by federal health officials shows overall respiratory virus spread is low.

08/06/2025

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08/05/2025

The Boston Business Journal reports that Jo Ann Simons, CEO of Northeast Arc, called on employers to help close the disability employment gap by embracing inclusive hiring and retention practices. She noted that people with disabilities often demonstrate strong job commitment and can thrive when given proper workplace supports.

https://www.bizjournals.com/boston/news/2025/07/31/jo-ann-simons-on-ada-35-anniversary-employers-can.html

08/04/2025

Fox 21 reports that the federal budget bill introduces stricter SNAP requirements in Minnesota, including expanded work mandates and reduced exemptions. The changes could impact hundreds of thousands of residents while shifting more administrative and financial responsibility to the state.

Who Currently Receives Benefits MINNESOTA — The Federal Budget Bill also called Trumps “Big, Beautiful Bill” has significant changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). 440,000 Minnesotans currently participate in SNAP in an average month. Most of those utilizing SNAP are ...

08/04/2025

CBS Minnesota reports that proposed federal budget cuts could significantly reduce Medicaid and disability services, potentially affecting thousands of Minnesotans with disabilities. State officials warn that up to 140,000 residents may lose Medical Assistance coverage due to new eligibility and reporting requirements.

There's a large chance you or someone you know has some sort of disability. A federal funding cut puts a program aimed at supporting people with disabilities in jeopardy. Dr. Amy Hewitt, the director of the U of M's Institute on Community Integration and a professor in educational psychology, joins....

08/04/2025

The Star Tribune reports that Metro Mobility users in Minnesota can now access private, same-day rides through the Premium On Demand program by paying a portion of the fare. The service, available via Carepool and Lyft, includes accessibility features and does not involve shared passengers.

The Met Council has added a second vendor to provide premium curb-to-curb service for seniors and people with disabilities.