Alzheimer’s Disease & Memory Care Specialist

We are one of the few private neurology centers in Illinois certified to administer the new FDA-approved disease-modifying therapies: Leqembi® (lecanemab) and Kisunla™ (donanemab).

These are not simple pills; they are powerful biologic infusions that require strict safety protocols. We have built a comprehensive ecosystem to administer them safely and comfortably.

Why Choose CNS Over a Hospital?

Since these treatments require visits every 2-4 weeks, the environment is critical to your quality of life.

• The "Med-Spa" Experience: Instead of a clinical hospital ward, patients receive treatments in our Private Infusion Suites with reclining chairs, warm blankets, and streaming entertainment (Netflix/Hulu).
• Family Friendly: Caregivers can sit comfortably with their loved ones in a private room, not a curtained-off bay.

Safety First: The ARIA Monitoring Protocol

Safety is our absolute priority. These medications carry a risk of ARIA (Amyloid-Related Imaging Abnormalities). Dr. Cohen oversees a rigorous monitoring schedule:

• MRI: We coordinate the required safety MRI scans to monitor for any brain changes before they become symptomatic.
• Neurologist Supervision: Unlike general infusion centers, a Board-Certified Neurologist is on-site to evaluate any side effects immediately.

Financial Navigation

These therapies are significant investments. Our dedicated Biologics Access Team handles:

• Prior Authorizations: We secure approval from Medicare and commercial insurers before you start.
• Copay Assistance: We help enroll eligible patients in manufacturer copay programs to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Several medications are FDA-approved for treating symptoms of Alzheimer’s, including:

• Cholinesterase Inhibitors: Medications like Aricept® (donepezil) and Exelon® (rivastigmine) work by increasing the levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in memory and learning. These medications can help improve cognitive symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
• Glutamate Regulators: Memantine Namenda® helps regulate glutamate, another neurotransmitter involved in memory and learning, and may improve symptoms in moderate to severe stages of Alzheimer’s.
• Antidepressants: Medications for depression or anxiety, which often accompany Alzheimer’s, can help alleviate mood symptoms and improve overall well-being.
• Antipsychotic Medications: In some cases, if a patient exhibits significant behavioral changes such as aggression or hallucinations, antipsychotic medications may be prescribed.

Cognitive stimulation therapy (CST) can help individuals with Alzheimer’s maintain cognitive function for as long as possible. This therapy includes activities that stimulate thinking and memory, promoting cognitive engagement. Additionally, cognitive rehabilitation strategies may help patients preserve independent functioning for longer.

Making changes in the home environment and establishing routines can help individuals with Alzheimer’s navigate daily life more easily. We provide recommendations on environmental modifications, such as improving safety and minimizing distractions, as well as strategies for managing behavior changes associated with the disease.

Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease can be challenging for families. We provide resources and counseling to help family members understand the disease, manage caregiving responsibilities, and ensure they have the support they need. This may include support groups, educational programs, and referrals to community resources.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for managing Alzheimer’s disease. We provide advice on nutrition, exercise, and sleep hygiene to help optimize brain health. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, and mental exercises can all play a role in improving cognitive function and overall well-being.

A Multi-Disciplinary Approach to Your Care at CNS Center, we treat the whole patient, not just the diagnosis.
Your care plan may include:

• Integrated Physical Therapy: Our Neurology-Integrated Physical Therapy team focuses on gait training, fall prevention, and motor recovery specifically for neurological conditions.
• Infusion Therapy: Patients requiring IV medications (such as Ocrevus or steroids) can receive treatment in our private IV Infusion Suite, supervised by your neurologist.
• Brain Wellness: We integrate nutrition and lifestyle management to support long-term brain health.