The only way to prevent or improve the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia is through careful research. Research is an important focus of the Memory Disorders Program. Our research is aimed at understanding Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia, at treating and preventing the disorder, and at interventions that can improve the quality of life for patients and their families. Of course, patient care is our utmost concern and is of paramount importance in all aspects of our research.

The Memory Disorders Program is involved in some of the latest research understanding Alzheimer's disease, dementia related to disease of the small blood vessels in the brain, milder forms of memory loss other than dementia, late-life depression, caregiver support, and memory loss due to disorders such as Parkinson's disease. Our research program has many ongoing studies that look at the progression of memory loss, possible interventions to prevent its development, and its effects on daily function. We are also involved in developing new methods for assessing memory and other thinking abilities.

Of course, all research participation is voluntary and a decision to participate, not participate, or withdraw from a research project will not affect a patient's care in the Memory Disorders Program. Before deciding to enroll in a research project, all patients and their families will be provided with a description of the research project including the reason why they have been invited to participate, the goal of the research study, and all procedures. All reasonably foreseeable risks and benefits of participation will be discussed.

If you have any questions or would like to hear about our ongoing research projects, please contact study coordinators, Margy Bowker, RN or Holly Adams, CCRC at 401-455-6402. You can also send an email to research@memorydisorder.org. All questions will be answered confidentially.