Patient and Family Resources

We understand the challenges of memory loss and the complexities of supporting individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Whether you are seeking information, guidance, or a supportive community, we are here to help you navigate the journey ahead.

Benefits of joining a study

Educational Resources

At the Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer’s Center, we put great value in creating and providing resources to help you better understand Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. From our virtual Lunch and Learn series and community newsletter to resources through the Alzheimer's Association and Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center, we are committed to keeping you informed.

Memory and Blood Pressure Screenings

The Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer’s Center is available to partner with local organizations to provide memory screenings, blood pressure screenings, and educational materials to community members. If you are interested in learning more about how we can partner with your organization to host a community memory screening, please contact Pam Cowley at pam.cowley@vumc.org.

Educational Presentations

The Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center offers educational presentations to the community covering a variety of topics related to Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. If you are interested in having a member of our team speak to your local community organization, please contact Pam Cowley at pam.cowley@vumc.org.

VIRTUAL LUNCH & LEARN SERIES

Third Wednesday of Each Month from 12:00pm-1:00pm CT

Please join us for an educational series on a variety of topics related to Alzheimer's disease, caregiving, and general wellness. Our goal is to be of service to the Middle Tennessee community by offering an informal setting to share and learn together.

Next Event: November 20th, 2024

"Don't Take My Keys! Driving and Aging"

Moving forward, the Lunch and Learn sessions will take place on Microsoft Teams. If you have not used Teams before and would like instructions, please reference the video here.

Upcoming Topics

Access Past Lunch and Learn Recordings

BRAIN DONATION PROGRAM

The Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer’s Center supports a brain donation program to help advance our scientific understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. One donated brain can provide valuable resources for hundreds of research studies focused on aging and memory loss. By considering the unique gift of brain donation, you are helping us gain critical knowledge in the search for Alzheimer’s disease prevention and treatment strategies.

If you are enrolled in one of our studies, we encourage you to consider brain donation as part of your study participation. At this time, we are only able to accept brain donations from individuals who are currently enrolled in one of our studies. Learn more about our brain donation program by contacting vmac.research@vumc.org.

Benefits of Brain Donation

Brain Donation FAQs

How do I sign up?

Making the decision to commit to brain donation is an important one, and loved ones should always be involved in the conversation. To learn more about our brain donation program, please contact our team at vmac.research@vumc.org. During the registration process, the Vanderbilt Memory and Alzheimer's Center will help determine whether brain donation is right for you.

How does the donation work?

After signing up for the brain donation program, your loved ones will receive a dedicated cell phone number to call when the time comes to donate. It is important that the call be made within the first hour of passing or before if it is known that passing is imminent. A representative from our Center will arrive and respectfully collect the brain donation with the utmost care.

What tissues will you remove?

The entire brain will be removed.

Can I still have an open casket funeral?

Yes, brain and tissue are carefully collected during the donation process, so no alterations will be necessary to your preferred funeral arrangements.

What information will my family receive?

Your family will receive a pathology report with information about evidence of Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias. This information can be especially helpful for confirming a medical diagnosis when memory problems are present before death. Even when memory problems are not present, there are often Alzheimer’s and related diseases developing in the brain. That information can add value to your loved one's knowledge of their family medical history.

Can I change my mind?

Yes, your participation is completely voluntary. You can change your mind at any point.

What impact will my donation have?

Examining the brain under a microscope is the only way to confirm Alzheimer’s or other brain diseases, and these samples are critical to understanding the underlying causes of Alzheimer’s disease. Your contribution to science will help future generations avoid the extraordinary burden of Alzheimer’s disease by advancing important discoveries.