Wave, Coyote Buttes rock formation

Alzheimer’s & Memory Disorders Program

About Our Program

You are what you know, what you remember. That is why memory disorders are so disturbing. And, as the population grows older, more and more people become concerned about their memory.

Minor changes in memory are actually normal, and sometimes the perception of memory loss is just a mistake. Depression and anxiety can give you the impression that you are losing your memory when medical testing proves otherwise.

Other people with mild cognitive impairment have real problems with memory or intellect, yet still function normally and are fully independent. Some remain unchanged for many years, but others develop the significant impairment, known as dementia.

Alzheimer’s disease, a degenerative condition of the brain, is the most common cause of dementia. Its intensity can range from mild to severe. But Alzheimer’s disease is not the only condition that causes dementia.

alzheimers specialist taking care of patient

The Barrow Difference

Too often, people who seek health care for concerns of memory disorders receive a “diagnose and adiós” approach. While there is no known cure for most forms of dementia, we believe a holistic approach can ease the burden of disease on patients and caregivers.

With our comprehensive clinical and wraparound services, we go beyond the diagnosis and prescription pad. Our team promises to help patients and care partners understand dementia and the challenging road ahead.

Comprehensive, Individualized Care

We also know that this road is different for everyone. At Barrow Neurological Institute, we strive to create a unique roadmap for every patient and family affected by dementia. Our cognitive disorders specialists thoroughly evaluate each patient and provide an individualized disease-management plan. This plan encompasses both medical and non-medical needs. Our experts in behavioral and cognitive health, geriatric neuropsychiatry, and social work are here to help every step of the way.

Wraparound Services

Our patients and caregivers have the opportunity to participate in support groups, workshops, and seminars. Some of these events are designed for both patients and care partners, while others are solely created for care partners. We address issues unique to the dementia community. These include coping with ambiguous loss and handling sensitive topics such as driving and assisted living.

Additionally, our website provides a variety of downloadable resources for patients and caregivers. We offer an in-depth guide for managing the day-to-day challenges of caregiving, quick tip sheets, and companion cards.

Cutting-Edge Research

As our clinicians are caring for patients today, they’re also working with our neuroscientists to find the treatments of the future. Barrow is home to ample laboratory space and often participates in multi-site clinical trials for individuals in various stages of cognitive impairment. 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. We also conduct prevention studies focused on ultimately finding a cure for Alzheimer’s and related dementias.

Location

Barrow Neurological Institute campus in 3D

Resources

Cognitive Connection Newsletter

Videos

Current & Emerging Treatments for Alzheimer's Disease

Current & Emerging Treatments for Alzheimer's Disease

Current & Emerging Treatments for Alzheimer's Disease

2021 Fall Care Partner Symposium

A Loving Approach to Behavior Changes in Dementia

A Loving Approach to Behavior Changes in Dementia

Dr. Anna Burke discusses why behavior changes happen in Alzheimer’s and memory…

Alzheimer's Disease 101

Welcome to the Alzheimer's and Memory Disorders Program

Welcome to the Alzheimer's and Memory Disorders Program

Learn more about the approach to Alzheimer’s disease and memory disorders at…
An Introduction to Alzheimer's Disease

An Introduction to Alzheimer's Disease

Learn more about Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis, symptoms, and treatments in this overview…
Normal Aging, Mild Cognitive Impairment, and Dementia

Normal Aging, Mild Cognitive Impairment, and Dementia

Get a greater understanding of the differences between normal aging, mild cognitive…
Diagnosing Alzheimer's Disease

Diagnosing Alzheimer's Disease

Understand how Alzheimer’s disease is diagnosed.
Current Treatments and Research for Alzheimer's Disease

Current Treatments and Research for Alzheimer's Disease

Learn about the most 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

Learn more relevant information about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia that we can…

Demystifying Symptoms and Changes of Dementia

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

Learn more relevant information about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia that we can…

2020 Symposium: Flourishing in Life, Love, and Intimacy

Finding Joy in Dementia: Part 1

Finding Joy in Dementia: Part 1

Anna Burke, MD, director of the Barrow Alzheimer’s and Memory Disorders Program,…
Finding Joy in Dementia: Part 2

Finding Joy in Dementia: Part 2

Anna Burke, MD, director of the Barrow Alzheimer’s and Memory Disorders Program,…
Flourishing in Love and Intimacy as a Dementia Care Partner: Part 1

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

Dr. Edward Shaw presents on flourishing in love and intimacy as a…
Flourishing in Love and Intimacy: Part 2

Flourishing in Love and Intimacy: Part 2

Dr. Edward Shaw presents on flourishing in love and intimacy as a…
Flourishing in Love and Intimacy: Part 3

Flourishing in Love and Intimacy: Part 3

Dr. Edward Shaw presents on flourishing in love and intimacy as a…
Flourishing in Love and Intimacy: Part 4

Flourishing in Love and Intimacy: Part 4

Dr. Edward Shaw presents on flourishing in love and intimacy as a…
Flourishing in Love and Intimacy: Part 5

Flourishing in Love and Intimacy: Part 5

Dr. Edward Shaw presents on flourishing in love and intimacy as a…

Dementia Care Partner Travel Videos

Staying Connected through Travel

Staying Connected through Travel

Staying connected through travel is part of living well. Find out how…
Preparing for Successful Travel

Preparing for Successful Travel

Preparation can be the key to successful travel if your loved one…
Redefining Successful Travel

Redefining Successful Travel

How to redefine successful travel if your loved one has a neurological…
Asking for and Accepting Help from Others

Asking for and Accepting Help from Others

How to ask for and accept help from others when traveling with…

Dementia Care Partner Videos

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

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

Anna D. Burke, MD, welcomes you to the Alzheimer’s and Memory Disorders…
Assisting with Covid-19 Precautions

Assisting with Covid-19 Precautions

How to assist your loved one with Covid-19 precautions if they are…
About the Author: Jan Dougherty, RN

About the Author: Jan Dougherty, RN

Learn about Jan Dougherty’s experience working with Alzheimer’s and dementia patients to…
Caring for the Alzheimer's Caregiver

Caring for the Alzheimer's Caregiver

Understanding the ways stress affects your brain and why it is essential…

About Barrow Neurological Institute

Minding What Matters Most

Minding What Matters Most

Here at Barrow Neurological Institute, we are preserving thoughts, memories, dreams, personalities,…