Wave, Coyote Buttes rock formation

Alzheimer’s & Memory Disorders Program

At a Glance: Our Alzheimer’s & Memory Disorders Program

As our aging American population continues to boom—more individuals are living to 100 than in any other decade—so too do concerns about memory and cognitive decline.

Our memories—what we know and what we remember—are an anchor for our identities. They tether us to our loved ones, our histories, and our experiences. And this is why memory disorders can often feel so turbulent.

The reality is that minor changes in memory are completely normal. Sometimes the perception of memory loss is simply that, or it’s intensified by a change in hormones. Conditions like depression and anxiety can make an individual feel as though memory is being lost, despite testing proving otherwise.

Those with diagnosed mild cognitive impairment can experience more concrete problems with memory or intellect, yet remain fully independent and well-functioning. Some remain unchanged for years, while others develop a significant impairment known as dementia. A degenerative condition of the brain, Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, and its intensity can range from mild to severe.

For more information about our Alzheimer’s and Memory Disorders Program or to make an appointment, please give us a call at (602) 406-6262.

alzheimers specialist taking care of patient

The Barrow Difference

While there is no known cure for most forms of dementia, we wholeheartedly believe a holistic approach can ease the burden on both patients and caregivers.

Our team will not “diagnose and adios here. Barrow Neurological Institute’s inclusive Alzheimer’s and Memory Disorder Program goes well beyond the diagnosis, and we make a commitment to help you or your loved ones better understand the road ahead. Although this road looks different for everyone, a detailed evaluation by our cognitive disorder specialists mean a highly individualized care plan that underscores medical and non-medical needs.

Wraparound Services

Our wraparound services support patients and caregivers alike. Our specialists in geriatric neuropsychiatry, behavioral and cognitive health, and social work are eager to share their knowledge with you and your loved ones via support groups, workshops, and seminars. We address issues specific to the dementia community head-on, like coping with ambiguous loss and handling sensitive topics such as driving and assisted living.

Additionally, we have a multitude of downloadable resources (keep scrolling!), like an in-depth guide for managing the day-to-day challenges of caregiving, tip sheets, and companion cards.

Pioneering Research

The focus of our clinicians is two-fold: taking care of our patients today, and partnering with Barrow neuroscientists to find the treatments of tomorrow.

We’re home to ample laboratory space and often participate in multi-site clinical trials for those in various stages of cognitive decline. We conduct prevention studies focused on finding a cure for Alzheimer’s and related dementias, and we serve as a study site for the largest international trial to date to evaluate deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery for mild probable Alzheimer’s.

There are still many reasons to hold on to hope here—and it’s our hope to share that with you and your loved ones.

For more information about our Alzheimer’s and Memory Disorders Program or to make an appointment, please give us a call at (602) 406-6262.

Location

Barrow Neurological Institute campus in 3D

Support & Wellness

Videos

Current Advances of Alzheimer's Disease Research

Current Advances of Alzheimer's Disease Research

Current & Emerging Treatments for Alzheimer's Disease

Current & Emerging Treatments for Alzheimer's Disease

A Loving Approach to Behavior Changes in Dementia

A Loving Approach to Behavior Changes in Dementia

Welcome to the Alzheimer's and Memory Disorders Program

Welcome to the Alzheimer's and Memory Disorders Program

An Introduction to Alzheimer's Disease

An Introduction to Alzheimer's Disease

Normal Aging, Mild Cognitive Impairment, and Dementia

Normal Aging, Mild Cognitive Impairment, and Dementia

Diagnosing Alzheimer's Disease

Diagnosing Alzheimer's Disease

Current Treatments and Research for Alzheimer's Disease

Current Treatments and Research for Alzheimer's Disease

Demystifying Symptoms and Changes of Dementia: Ways to Help with Person-Centered Care

Demystifying Symptoms and Changes of Dementia: Ways to Help with Person-Centered Care

Demystifying Symptoms and Changes of Dementia: Ways to Help with Person-Centered Care

Demystifying Symptoms and Changes of Dementia: Ways to Help with Person-Centered Care

Finding Joy in Dementia: Part 1

Finding Joy in Dementia: Part 1

Finding Joy in Dementia: Part 2

Finding Joy in Dementia: Part 2

Flourishing in Love and Intimacy as a Dementia Care Partner: Part 1

Flourishing in Love and Intimacy as a Dementia Care Partner: Part 1

Flourishing in Love and Intimacy: Part 2

Flourishing in Love and Intimacy: Part 2

Flourishing in Love and Intimacy: Part 3

Flourishing in Love and Intimacy: Part 3

Flourishing in Love and Intimacy: Part 4

Flourishing in Love and Intimacy: Part 4

Flourishing in Love and Intimacy: Part 5

Flourishing in Love and Intimacy: Part 5

Staying Connected through Travel

Staying Connected through Travel

Preparing for Successful Travel

Preparing for Successful Travel

Redefining Successful Travel

Redefining Successful Travel

Asking for and Accepting Help from Others

Asking for and Accepting Help from Others

Welcome to the Alzheimer's and Memory Disorders Program at Barrow

Welcome to the Alzheimer's and Memory Disorders Program at Barrow

Assisting with Covid-19 Precautions

Assisting with Covid-19 Precautions

About the Author: Jan Dougherty, RN

About the Author: Jan Dougherty, RN

Caring for the Alzheimer's Caregiver

Caring for the Alzheimer's Caregiver

Minding What Matters Most

Minding What Matters Most