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

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,…