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Center for Brain Health

Welcome to the Center for Brain Health at NorthShore Neurological Institute. We’ve created a unique clinical service to preserve and improve brain health by preventing aging-related brain disorders like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy.

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Preventative Care | Our Services | Team Approach

Preventative Care

Developing an aging-related brain disorder, like Alzheimer’s disease, is a big fear as we grow older, and for good reason: One in five women and one in 10 men will develop Alzheimer’s in their lifetime. But there’s new hope for delaying–even preventing–diseases like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s. Research has uncovered both genetic and non-genetic (medical, behavioral, and lifestyle) risks for Alzheimer's disease and similar disorders. These discoveries allow us to identify the modifiable risks that apply to our patients.

Nurses with model brain

Our Services

Therapies to improve brain health and to reduce the risk for Alzheimer’s disease and other aging brain disorders include medical, physical, cognitive, dietary and integrative approaches. Specialists assist with lifestyle adjustments such as improved diet, cognitive and physical exercise, and better sleep habits. Our advanced use of the electronic medical record aids in the evaluation and management of risk factors. At your first visit to the NorthShore Center for Brain Health, a neurologist specializing in brain health will evaluate your neurological function and risk factors. Blood and lab tests, brain imaging, and neuropsychological testing may be recommended. Based on your specific risk factors, we will develop a personalized brain health plan to reduce your risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases.

Some recommendations might include:

  • advanced nutrition counseling
  • cognitive exercise plans
  • physical fitness counseling
  • genetic counseling
  • lifestyle coaching

We see our brain health patients annually to monitor your risks over time and measure the effectiveness of our efforts to prevent Alzheimer’s and related disorders. If you are at increased risk, you may be eligible to participate in research studies, including studies to identify additional DNA markers that predict brain health outcomes and guide your therapy (personalized medicine).

Patient Stephanie Vlahakis

Team Approach

Our multidisciplinary team of experts are dedicated to providing you evidence-based, leading edge and comprehensive approaches to determine your risk and prevent brain disorders. 

Our Center for Brain team includes:

  • Neurologists
  • Neuropsychologists
  • Brain imaging specialists
  • Genetic counselors
  • Laboratory physicians and scientists
  • Physical and cognitive therapists
  • Researchers 
  • Dieticians
  • Social workers
  • Lifestyle coaches
Dr. Chad Yucus