Trusted resources for brain health, caregiving and support

Voices of Alzheimer’s empowers people living with Alzheimer’s and cognitive diseases to contribute their experiences to shape policy, research priorities, and equitable care access.It has substantial advocacy resources available to people with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

SWHR provides educational materials that focus on the intersection of sex, gender, and health, promoting research and policy development. Its Alzheimer’s and Healthy Aging initiatives highlight how dementia risk, diagnosis, and caregiving affect women differently.

NHCOA is a national organization dedicated to improving the lives of Hispanic older adults and their caregivers through education, advocacy, policy work, and culturally relevant health programming. It features a broad range of Alzheimer's and dementia information that is found across its website, so using the search function may make it easier to locate specific content or areas of concern.

HealthyWomen is an independent nonprofit organization that provides evidence-based health information and education to women, including caregiving guidance, women’s brain health, and disease awareness content. Its Alzheimer's disease hub has a lot of great resources for those with dementia and their caregivers.

BWHI is the first nonprofit founded by Black women to center their health concerns. It advances research, advocacy, and programs to reduce health disparities affecting Black women, including in brain health, chronic illness, and caregiving.

The Alliance for Aging Research advocates at the federal level for healthy aging, funds educational initiatives, and works to expand access to care and research innovations for older adults, including those affected by Alzheimer’s disease.

While based in LA, Alzheimer's Los Angeles has free national resources focusing on education and support for people living with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, and their caregivers. Important educational sections include: Brain Health (https://www.alzheimersla.org/brain-health/), the free Savvy Caregiver program (https://www.alzheimersla.org/for-families/activities-and-workshops/the-savvy-caregiver/), its Memory Club support and peer group for those with early stage memory loss and care partners (https://www.alzheimersla.org/for-families/services/memory-club/), and content like the Alzheimer’s Telenovela (https://www.alzheimersla.org/videos/telenovela/)

This site serves as a hub for information on NIA-conducted and -supported research facilities, health information on participating in a clinical trial, and information on finding and joining a clinical trial. You can find contact information for all of the Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers (ADRCs) as well.

PayingforSeniorCare.com aims to be the most complete, up-to-date, and reliable source of simple and easy-to-access information about financial resources for seniors and their loved ones on the internet. You can find national resources as well as state and county-level supports by searching or calling its 855 number.

NAC has created this guide related to brain health that includes a variety of resources and links to help discuss Alzheimer's, related dementia, and other cognitive concerns.

Alzheimer’s Association TrialMatch connects individuals living with Alzheimer's disease or another dementia and their caregivers with current research studies. This free service helps you find clinical research that may be a good fit, whether you're focused on treatment, diagnosis, care or prevention.

ClinicalTrials.gov is a place to learn about clinical studies from around the world. You can find studies related to Alzheimer's disease and other dementia. With this resource, it's important to note that you may need to search multiple times as some studies use different spellings or terms, such as "Alzheimer disease" and "Alzheimer dementia."

The Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (ADRC) Research Education Component (REC) works with early-career investigators who are interested in working on Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) research. This program is intended to support ADRD training for individual researchers and to facilitate development of skills in basic, clinical and translational research.

The National Institute on Aging is a leader on brain health education and develops public-facing resources and infographics on brain health that could be shared or repurposed by any other organization.

The AARP Brain Health Resource Center is focused on promoting improved brain health as people age. It has a wide range of resources for different needs, including a robust section on Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Its Staying Sharp ( https://stayingsharp.aarp.org/) platform give people free, accessible tools to strengthen cognitive well-being and support loved ones.

A research education program that develops emerging dementia scholars and disseminates findings through national symposia.

Part of UC Irvine’s ADRC, ORE supports community outreach, recruitment, and education to increase participation in Alzheimer’s research.

Boss Frog brain health education through books, puppets, and materials focused on teaching children, as well as memory activities for seniors, with a focus on Alzheimer’s and dementia awareness.

Offers specialized music headsets designed for seniors with dementia, helping memory recall and emotional wellbeing through music therapy.

Founded by Maria Shriver, WAM is the leading nonprofit dedicated to women and Alzheimer’s, funding research and awareness campaigns. Part of the Cleveland Clinic, WAM also provides caregiving resources and family education materials.

A national advocacy organization working to stop Alzheimer’s by driving awareness, advancing equity, and supporting caregivers and patients.

The GSA KAER Toolkit for Brain Health is intended to support primary care teams implement a comprehensive, person-centered approach to initiating conversations about brain health, detecting and diagnosing dementia, and providing individuals with community-based support.

The National Minority Quality Forum raises awareness and addresses disparities in Alzheimer’s care in Black and Hispanic communities through advocacy and education.

Founded by Seth and Lauren Miller Rogen, the Hilarity for Charity non-profit provides caregiver grants, education, and awareness to support families facing dementia.

A clinical research company offering Alzheimer’s education, no-cost screenings, and clinical trial opportunities to improve early detection and treatment. You can learn more about your risk and find brain health screenings through some of its programs, including on this page: https://ad.careaccess.com/en

Advances brain health through research and education, supporting innovations in dementia and Alzheimer’s care.

A national network of healthcare providers advocating for patient-centered care and equitable access to treatments, including for Alzheimer’s patients.

A culturally relevant educational program under ALTER Dementia that equips Black caregivers with dementia care skills and community support.

A national, Black faith-based non-profit that was created to address the lack of resources and awareness around dementia in African American and faith communities. It works with churches and local organizations to help communities be dementia-friendly through training, education, and consultations. Alter runs a national program and has many chapters and partners in cities throughout the US.

A caregiving support podcast that offers tools and resources to families “parenting up,” caring for parents and older relatives with dementia.

A research-driven initiative studying sex-specific risks for Alzheimer’s and related dementias in men, raising awareness of men’s brain health in the Black/African American community. The group runs an annual education and research conference dedicated to advancing brain health equity and addressing disparities in Alzheimer’s and dementia among Black men.

A culturally specific program of the National Council of Dementia Minds, supporting Black persons with dementia through peer leadership and community dialogue.

This clinical research initiative focuses on understanding inflammation and tau pathology in Black women to improve equity in dementia research. It provides educational materials and runs studies for Black/African American women aged 60 years or older.

A national nonprofit led by individuals living with dementia, providing education, peer support, and advocacy.

A community-focused nonprofit centering the experiences of Black families affected by dementia, offering culturally tailored support and advocacy. Its Bridge Youth program provides intergenerational support by connecting youth with families impacted by dementia, helping reduce stigma and increase awareness. Melanin Minded also offers some transportation support for g dementia patients and caregivers by providing reliable rides to medical care and community services.

The BrightFocus Foundation is a global non-profit organization dedicated to finding treatments and cures for age-related diseases of the mind and sight, specifically Alzheimer's disease, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. It funds scientific research, offers public educational materials for caregivers and those with Alzheimer's, and provides updates on new science, treatments, and research.

There are also many industry-sponsored programs from pharmaceutical companies that offer information on Alzheimer's in general as well as specific treatments related to those companies. This is an example from Lilly, which has an intravenous treatment it says designed to slow cognitive decline.The Brain Health Matters website provides education on early symptoms, speaking with doctors, risk factors, and ways to address cognitive health.

The National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF) produces culturally tailored Alzheimer’s guides for Black and Hispanic families. Its “Heart to Heart” caregiver toolkit and “Before Diagnosis” guide help minorities navigate dementia symptoms and care in culturally relevant ways.

A national 501(c)(3) founded by Seth Rogen to “care for families impacted by Alzheimer’s,” especially younger caregivers. Provides grants for in-home respite, online support groups, and educational content aimed at caregivers and brain health.

A non-profit organization that mobilizes Black churches nationwide on various social and healthcare issues. It organizes the annual “Memory Sunday” campaign each June to raise ADRD awareness in African American communities. The non-profit also develops culturally tailored brain-health materials and trains faith leaders to support African American elders and caregivers.

Offers a caregiver education center and online fact sheets. It runs state caregiver resource centers that provide counseling and support.

A coalition of organizations that conducts research and policy advocacy to improve support for all family caregivers, including those caring for people with dementia. NAC publishes guides on paying and supporting family caregivers.

A leading national nonprofit offering free education, online support communities, and a Caregiver Help Desk for family caregivers of all conditions. It provides toolkits and tips, including Alzheimer’s caregiving guides.

VA’s national program offers education, counseling, respite vouchers, and a financial stipend for eligible caregivers of veterans with cognitive impairments. The VA Caregiver Support Program aims to promote caregiver well-being through training, support groups, and services.

Federal Medicare/Medicaid programs support long-term dementia care. For example, CMS’s Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) allows eligible seniors with dementia to receive comprehensive in-home care. State Medicaid waivers can pay family caregivers; SSA offers disability and “compassionate allowance” benefits for qualifying dementia cases.

CDC’s Alzheimer’s Disease Program develops evidence-based public health guidance on dementia prevention and care. It supports the Healthy Brain Initiative and the BOLD infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Act, creating state plan templates and data resources on cognitive health. Also provides healthy aging guidelines relevant to ADRD risk reduction.

A branch of HHS (including the former Administration on Aging) that funds dementia programs and the National Alzheimer’s and Dementia Resource Center (NADRC). NADRC provides technical assistance and publishes best-practice guides for state and community Alzheimer’s programs. Also includes Eldercare Locator (https://eldercare.acl.gov) to connect caregivers with local services. Educational materials can be found at: https://acl.gov/brain-health

The U.S. federal government’s official portal for Alzheimer's and related dementias, maintained by the HHS and NIA. It consolidates reliable information and resources across agencies, and includes tools to find local services and clinical trials.

NIH’s Alzheimer’s & Related Dementias Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center provides free publications and answers inquiries (800-438-4380, adear@nia.nih.gov) about ADRD care and services.

A national organization offering caregiver support, education, and a helpline (866-232-8484) focused on Alzheimer’s and related dementias. It runs a national memory screening program (https://alzfdn.org/memory-screening/ ) that can help people find resources, information, and start their diagnostic journey.

A leading national Alzheimer's nonprofit providing 24/7 toll-free helpline (800-272-3900), support groups, education, and research funding for Alzheimer’s and other dementias. It works through nationwide chapters to connect patients and caregivers to local services.

Three of four blood tests used to identify people in early stages of Alzheimer’s disease perform differently in Black individuals compared to White individuals, according to the Washington University School of Medicine. This article reviews current differences that may put Black patients at a significantly increased risk of misdiagnosis.

The Mayo Clinic provides an expansive review of testing for and diagnosing Alzheimer's disease, including tests a doctor may run to rule out other causes of cognitive impairment. It includes a review of up-to-date treatment options, links to look for clinic trials, caregiver supports, and a list of questions to ask your doctor.

This page from the National Library of Medicine reviews many different cognitive tests and methods that check for problems with certain brain functions. Many such tests are used for the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. It discusses how many tests function, risks, preparation, results, and more.

This NIA page details the full range of diagnostic steps, from doctor interviews to cognitive tests, lab work, psychiatric evaluation, spinal taps, and brain imaging that are used in testing and diagnosing Alzheimer's and other related dementia diseases. You'll also learn the different types of doctors who may be involved with diagnosis and care.The page includes a variety of links to government information and resources on financial and legal planning, safety concerns, living arrangements, and more.

This page summarizes the typical diagnostic workup, including medical history, mental status tests, physical/neurological exams, lab work, and imaging. It can direct you to specific resources and information on medical tests, the benefits of testing, how to prepare for doctor visits, and how to get support after a diagnosis.

An overview of Alzheimer's Disease, the impact it can have on families, and how policymakers can improve early diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life for those with Alzheimer's.

Facing stigma is often a primary concern of people living with Alzheimer's and their care partners. Those with the disease report being misunderstood because of the myths and misconceptions others have about the disease. Addressing this is needed to ensure better care and support.

The Calling All Voices podcast lets you hear and learn from the diverse perspectives of people living with dementia or MCI and their care partners from communities that are marginalized, underserved, and unheard. Many episodes and conversations focus on stigma faced by people with Alzheimer's and related dementias, or how stigma made it difficult for caregivers to spot signs and provide support.

This article looks at how community events like “Memory Sunday” can interrupt stigma; emphasizing community, conversations, and outreach through churches to reduce silence and shame.

An earlier but foundational paper comparing beliefs about Alzheimer’s (what causes it, whether it’s treatable, etc.) between African Americans and White Americans. It shows differences in understanding, family worries, and beliefs about causes and how treatable symptoms are. Differences in many of the factors correlate with stigma in someone's community.

This video looks at dementia within the Black community, with people sharing personal and professional experiences. Discussions focus on how best to support people living with dementia and their caregivers, including the stigma that many face which can lead people to minimize or not discuss symptoms and concerns.

This report worked with 6 churches to look at attitudes, worries, and stigma around Alzheimer's disease, both before and after a workshop focused on dementia. The study found that culturally sensitive outreach and education changed congregants’ perceptions about dementia and potentially reduce dementia-associated stigma. This change will allow families to feel comfortable both interacting with and seeking help from those in their faith

This research explores the shame and embarrassment often associated with dementia and Alzheimer's, particularly in relation to family and household reputation. While it takes a more reserved lens, it does highlight important conclusions for Black communities, such as how a delayed diagnosis can create greater family and community stigma.

Designer Arlinda McIntosh turns fashion into storytelling through her “Memory Skirt” project, helping families preserve meaningful moments through wearable art. Inspired by her own family’s experiences, she blends creativity with conversations about brain health and normal aging.

This short animated video explains the difference between normal and serious memory problems. It may help caregivers, friends, and family members understand when someone is having difficulty with more than just standard aging. The video's description also includes resources on memory problems, forgetfulness, and aging from multiple government agencies.

This study maps evidence of disparities in Alzheimer's disease and Alzheimer's disease related dementias healthcare, including issues of access, quality, and outcomes for racial/ethnic minoritized persons living with dementia and family caregivers. It provides significant evidence that minority populations are less likely to receive an accurate and timely diagnosis, be prescribed anti-dementia medications, and use hospice care, and more likely to have a higher risk of hospitalization and receive more aggressive life-sustaining treatment at the end-of-life.

The NIH and NIA provide a straightforward infographic comparing age-related forgetfulness and signs of dementia. It looks at things like forgetting which day it is versus losing track of the time of year, or sometimes forgetting a word vs trouble engaging in a conversation. The web page and infographic itself are available in both English and Español.

The CDC provides plain-language information on when to see a doctor about cognitive changes, comparing dementia against typical aging. It describes common symptoms and advises people to talk to their healthcare provider to see if symptoms are related to dementia or another treatable condition. Early and accurate diagnosis may help slow progression and allow for better planning.

This widely cited Alzheimer’s Association page lists the 10 early warning signs of Alzheimer’s Disease. It explains symptoms that are not just normal aging and urges people not to ignore them. With early detection, individuals can explore treatments that may provide some relief of symptoms and help maintain independence longer.

This report's findings provide initial evidence supporting a culturally informed community-engaged approach for increasing inclusion of Black and Latine older adults in Alzheimer disease cohort studies. Taking a multipronged, culturally informed approach was associated with a 268% increase in the monthly rate of enrollment of underrepresented communities in one pilot study.

UsAgainstAlzheimer’s explains why diagnosing Alzheimer’s early matters. It notes that, though there’s no cure, early knowledge provides relief, planning time, and access to potential treatments. The page also highlights scientific findings that brain damage may begin more than a decade before symptoms appear. It includes links to different support programs as well as news and resources that are regularly updated.

Researchers from the Keck School of Medicine of USC found that individuals from certain racial and ethnic groups may be ineligible for some Alzheimer’s disease clinical trials because of lower levels of brain amyloid buildup at early stages of the disease. The study's lead author says the findings highlight the need for better access to Alzheimer’s disease pre-screening and screening opportunities, as well as the need to rethink eligibility criteria for studies.

Black Americans are disproportionately burdened by Alzheimer's disease and continue to be underrepresented in related clinical trials. This review explores the primary barriers for participation in clinical trials among Black Americans and provides literature‐based recommendations to improve the inclusion of Black Americans in AD clinical trials.

In 2000, WashU Medicine established one of the country’s earliest groups dedicated to increasing African American participation in Alzheimer’s research. Its early work has led to African Americans making up 17% of its Alzheimer's study volunteers, up from 3% in 1999. This article looks at that journey, what still needs to be done, and why proper representation is important for everyone.

Black men face significant health disparities, including higher rates of conditions that are critical risk factors for Alzheimer’s and dementia. However, Black men are also underrepresented in current research and clinical trials. This page discusses the impact of underrepresentation and connects people with resources to find clinical trials in their local area.

Through NPR and PBS, this documentaries related covers topics of diagnosis, care, and support. You'll also find articles and stories about help finding national resources as well as those in Virginia.

This Alzheimer’s Association page offers a comprehensive overview of challenges and supports for Alzheimer’s caregivers. It emphasizes that caring for a person with Alzheimer’s or dementia often involves a team, and the page provides practical tips, emotional support links, specific information on concerns like wandering, 24/7 helpline information, and stress-management guidance for family caregivers. On-page links may also help caregivers find support groups in some locations.

The HHS Administration for Community Living offers a free federal service that helps families find local support services (e.g., respite care, support groups, transportation) in any US community. Families can search online or call toll-free to get connected to nearby and local services.

The Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease rovides an overview of Alzheimer's disease and how it progresses. This resource has clearly laid out the stages of the disease and what they can look like as well as relevant cognitive screenings. You'll also find infographics and other pieces on how to get resources or help, new FDA work, the future of treatment, and the potential of early detection.

This NIH/NLM site gathers reliable health information specifically for Alzheimer’s caregivers. It summarizes caregiver responsibilities and links to tips on communication, behavior, legal planning, and more. It helps caregivers learn how to respond to changes in communication and behavior, provide everyday care, and get help when needed.You'll also find resources that are regularly updated on topics such as managing a caregiver's depression; how to help someone with Alzheimer's dress, bathe, and groom; and providing care at different stages of the disease. Many resources are available in both English and Español.

This free guide is a detailed caregiver manual from the NIH and NIA. It covers nearly all aspects of care: how Alzheimer’s progresses, managing behaviors and communication, daily care routines, and tips on caregiver self-care. It offers authoritative, research-based advice on home safety, healthy routines, and getting help when needed. You also addresses some topics for within your own family, such as how to tell small children about Alzheimer's and what to consider for other family members when it comes to end-of-life care for the person with Alzheimer's.

This guide from the Family Caregiver Alliance and reviewed by Beth Logan, M.S.W. offers several practical strategies for dealing with the troubling behavior problems and communication difficulties often encountered when caring for a person with dementia. It notes how caregivers can handle some issues directly, when to speak with doctors, and signs to watch for throughout care.This resource is available as written text or in a three-part audio version playable with buttons at the top of the page.

In this randomized clinical trial that included patient and caregivers, patient behavioral symptoms and caregiver strain over 18 months were not significantly different between a health system-based and a community-based care intervention nor between either active intervention and usual care.

This Essence article explores the blurred line between normal aging and early signs of conditions like cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s, using one woman’s personal journey as a lens. It highlights the importance of early detection, shares stark statistics on how Alzheimer’s disproportionately impacts Black Americans, and calls out the barriers of stigma and misdiagnosis that many communities face. It underscores both the medical realities and the social disparities shaping who gets timely care, while also pointing to the role of family and community support in navigating these challenges.

This video and related content discusses things people can do to keep their brains healthy and active It also touches on ways to improve brain health, risks around certain medications, and other things that can either increase or reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

Caregiving While Black and Emory University have created a series of educational videos and recorded webinars on health topics including brain fitness, how to create a partner team for Black families experiencing dementia, and life planning for someone with Alzheimer's.

Many factors contribute to cognitive health. The NIH reviews brain health, the connection to our physical bodies, and how taking care of both can support healthier aging. It also offers links to related content specific to health topics like Alzheimer's and dementia.

Latino individuals are more likely to have Alzheimer’s disease but less likely to receive the appropriate diagnosis and care. This article looks at how researchers are working to address these health disparities.

Even healthy brains slow down as they age. But there are ways to keep that thinker in tip-top shape. This article looks at those as well as the things that might negatively impact brain health or be potential risk factors for things like Alzheimer's disease.