Aging is a cumulative and progressive process across the lifespan. Some changes are normal with aging: memory functions get worse, thinking is slowed, making decisions may be more difficult, and we may not be as flexible or agile as when we were young. Changes that occur as part of the normal aging process can be noticeable and it can cause some worry or anxiety.

Early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease and dementia are similar to the aging process, but will be more severe or faster onset, and will interfere with daily living. If you are concerned that you or a loved one may have Alzheimer's disease or related dementia, consult your primary care provider. Not all changes in thinking and memory are due to these diseases, and your primary care provider will make clinical assessments of thinking and memory ability, and rule out other causes in order to make recommendations and a diagnosis.

The Healthy Brain Aging Laboratory works with community adults who are experiencing normal aging and some who may be experiencing decline consistent with early stages of dementia. The cognitive and MRI assessments that we use in the research study are not diagnostic and are not collected according to clinical perscription.

Click to Learn More About Brain Health and Aging

Additional Community and Online Resources for Older Adults

Detroit Area Agency on Aging

The Detroit Area Agency on Aging addresses issues such as:

• Elder abuse
• LGBT issues
• Eldercare
• Nutrition services (e.g., Meals on Wheels)
• Health and wellness (including diabetes)
• Clinical services (e.g., health care, nursing)
• Medicare and Medicaid
• Senior community service employment
• Community wellness
• Grandparents raising grandchildren
• Advocacy

Their mission is to "educate, advocate and promote healthy aging to enable people to make choices about home and community-based services and long-term care that will improve their quality of life."

Alzheimer's Association

Discovering that you or a loved one has Alzheimer's disease can be scary, especially if you don't know very much about the disease. 

The Alzheimer's Association aims to:

• Talk about the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer's and dementia
• Help those affected find support groups
• Share stories from those diagnosed with Alzheimer's or dementia
• Provide support and advance research to end Alzheimer's disease
• Provide information and resources about the disease
• Make an impact and encourage people to get involved in events, advocacy, and volunteerism

This website is NOT to be used to diagnose Alzheimer's disease or dementia. Please consult your physician with any concerns.

Alzheimer's Foundation of America

The Alzheimer's Foundation of America provides support, services, and education to individuals, families, and caregivers affected by Alzheimer's disease and related dementias nationwide. They also fund research for better treatment and a cure.