Welcome

A Message from the Director

I have spent the better part of my career working on behalf of people with Alzheimer’s disease and their families. My mission as a clinician, educator and researcher has been to preserve the wisdom, memories and companionship of the growing population of elderly persons and those of future generations. This debilitating illness affects not just individuals but also families, communities, the health care system, the state and the nation. Today, people are working together to share knowledge and deal with the many issues—medical, social and financial--that arise when Alzheimer’s is diagnosed.

Alzheimer’s disease is recognized as a major health problem and is the subject of intense research due to the increasing population of elderly persons in our world today. Through science we are beginning to understand how it can be prevented and for those who develop symptoms, how the progression of the disease can be slowed. There is hope now for those affected with Alzheimer’s disease.

The Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Institute (WAI) is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of people and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease. It is a unique resource within the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health offering education, services and research to the entire state of Wisconsin. Our programs are multi-faceted because we know that a broad and collaborative approach is necessary to improve the quality and availability of services needed. Science is our hope for a cure, but as we work toward this breakthrough, WAI’s dementia diagnostic centers, public and professional education opportunities and public advocacy are serving those in need today. The WAI recognizes the need for public and professional education about the potential benefits of early diagnosis and treatment and we are committed to doing something about it.

Mark Sager, MD
Director, Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Institute
University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health