The Aging Brain Center is dedicated to advancing medical knowledge about delirium and the interface between delirium and dementias, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Each year, more than 12 million older Americans develop delirium, an acute medical condition that presents as an abrupt confusion or a sudden change in cognitive abilities. Long-term consequences of delirium include increased risks of death, dementia, and prolonged disability. Delirium is especially common in patients with Alzheimer’s disease, and prevention of delirium in this group of patients is of critical importance.
Our vision is to reduce delirium and its complications for patients worldwide. This mission is realized through rigorous research studies and is supported by a dedicated staff along with interdisciplinary collaborators and trainees in a supportive environment utilizing high-quality, innovative methods and technology.
Our research and clinical activities include investigation of risk factors, pathophysiology, intervention strategies, and clinical trials and focus on:
The Center’s work also examines broader societal implications of delirium and cognitive decline, including costs, policy, and caregiver issues for conditions associated with cognitive impairment in older adults.
The Aging Brain Center is distinguished by our faculty’s commitment to mentor the next generation of researchers in the field, and disseminate our findings to clinicians, policy makers, and the community.
Significant impacts and research focus areas include:
