Smith Alzheimer's Center for Research and Treatment Donations
Support community outreach programs, patient care and research to help those with Alzheimer's disease and related disorders and their caregivers.
The Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer's Research and Treatment is dedicated to assisting patients and families who may be affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders through patient care, education, research, and service to the community.
Located on the SIU School of Medicine campus in Springfield, the Memory and Aging Clinic provides complete memory and cognitive assessment, treatment, education, referral and counseling services to patients and their families. Both self-referred and physician-referred patients are welcomed.
Research
The Smith Alzheimer's Center conducts and supports scientific and psychosocial research, including multi-center clinical drug trials, the brain autopsy program, neuropsychological research, and basic science research. Smith Alzheimer's Center researchers collaborate with those in other departments on the School of Medicine campus, as well as those affiliated with other institutions, like SIU Carbondale, Eastern Illinois University, and the University of Illinois.
Community outreach
The Smith Alzheimer's Center is an active participant in many community programs, including our Beyond the Medical Center programs. These focus on ways to improve the quality of life for those with dementia, as well as those around them through a variety of activities, including through movement, art therapy and music therapy. They also provide an opportunity to connect with others who understand the unique challenges they face.
Collaborations with community organizations, such as AgeLinc, Senior Services of Central Illinois, Alzheimer’s Association and more help coordinate efforts and programs.
Educational programs
The Smith Alzheimer's Center sponsors educational events and services for clinicians, health care professionals, patients and family members throughout the year. Our major event includes our annual conference on brain aging, which provides the latest information on research and care to both healthcare professionals as well as those with memory loss and the caregivers on separate days.
Memory and Aging Network
The network is comprised of a variety of community-based providers throughout the 93 county service area. Network providers work closely with SIU School of Medicine faculty and staff and are specifically trained to evaluate individuals with memory or other cognitive complaints according to a standard protocol. In addition, Network providers may provide counseling, referral services, and education to individuals, the community and health care professionals. Patients and families may be referred for available research programs if they wish.
To find more information on the Smith Alzheimer's Center, discover more here.