Alzheimer’s Disease Dementia
Dementia refers to symptoms of a decline in thinking abilities that interfere with one’s ability to carry out daily tasks independently. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of many causes of dementia but is the most common cause of dementia in individuals over the age of 65. In AD, abnormal protein deposits (called neurofibrillary tangles and neuritic plaques) form in the brain and destroy healthy brain cells. Commonly, these abnormalities tend to first form in brain areas that are responsible for memory. In some people with AD, however, these deposits can form in different areas of the brain in early stages and cause a decline in language functions, reasoning, visual perceptual skills or mood.
VISIT NORTHWESTERN MEDICINE'S NEUROBEHAVIOR AND MEMORY CLINIC
Symptoms & Causes
Learn about the symptoms and progression of Alzheimer’s disease dementia.Diagnosis
Find out what tests may be involved in making a diagnosis.Care, Support & Treatment
There are no cures, but there are ways to manage the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease dementia.Meet Our Team
The members of the Mesulam Center for Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer’s Disease are faculty at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and other Northwestern University schools. Browse their profiles to learn more about their clinical interests and research work.
Meet our MembersResearch
Research Studies
Those living with Alzheimer’s disease dementia should consider enrolling in a research program affiliated with the center. Browse our list of ongoing studies recruiting new participants.
Care & Support
Glen and Wendy Miller Family Buddy Program
The Miller family’s generous support allows us to offer the Buddy Program. The program pairs individuals living with dementia with first-year medical students.
Events
Alzheimer Day This annual springtime event showcases Alzheimer’s disease dementia research conducted throughout Northwestern with a day of poster presentations, panels and a town hall meeting.
Alzheimer’s Disease Seminar Series Browse our schedule to learn more about upcoming lunchtime seminars featuring the latest in Alzheimer’s disease dementia care and research.