Alzheimer's changes more than memory: it can bring restlessness, agitation or a different way of seeing the world, and families feel every bit of it. Research in this area follows those changes over months, with the person's caregiver part of every step.
Alzheimer's disease affects memory and thinking, and for many families the hardest part is what comes with it: agitation, restless evenings, or seeing and believing things that are not there. Research in this area follows how memory, mood and behavior change across visits spaced over months, using conversations and short memory tasks, and studies medicines that work differently from the ones already available.
Taking part usually means visits together with a family member or caregiver who knows the person well and can describe daily life between visits. A person's own doctor stays their doctor throughout, and the clinical team explains each visit before it starts.
An independent review board approves every Alzheimer's program before it opens. A family member, a caregiver or the person themselves can register interest here, and the clinical team will call to talk it over.
What members say
The BonfireAqualane Clinical Research locations
Frequently asked questions
Will I be told something frightening about my memory?
A research program follows change over time; it is not a diagnosis visit. The clinical team explains at the start what it will and will not share, and a person's own doctor stays in charge of their care.
What happens at a memory research visit?
Conversation, short memory and thinking tasks on paper or a screen, and routine questions about daily life. Visits are longer than a checkup, with breaks whenever a person wants one.
Why do programs ask for a partner to come along?
Someone who knows the person well can describe changes in daily life that memory tasks do not show. The clinical team explains what a partner is asked to do and whether a program needs one.
Can I keep seeing my own doctor or neurologist?
Yes. Programs run alongside a person's usual care, and the clinical team explains how the two fit together before anything begins.
How long does a memory program run?
Often many months, because changes in memory and thinking are gradual. The clinical team shares the full calendar before anyone decides.
Can a family member register interest for someone with Alzheimer's?
Yes. A spouse, adult child or caregiver can register interest for the person they look after, and the clinical team calls them to talk it over. Some programs in this area look at changes in mood and behavior that can come with Alzheimer's, such as agitation or seeing things that are not there.
Is there compensation for taking part?
Compensation may be available for your time and inconvenience.
