For more information, please contact our clinic coordinator on (02) 9114 4002 or email bmri.hba@sydney.edu.au. The Healthy Brain Ageing Clinic works with older adults to assess, prevent, and treat cognitive decline, dementia, and mood disorders, with the aim of supporting brain health and enhancing quality of life. All services are offered free of charge, as part of our ongoing research studies. O
ur Approach
At the heart of our approach is early detection and prevention. By identifying risk factors and the early signs of cognitive decline, we aim to implement strategies that may slow the progression of neurodegenerative conditions. While there are no known cures for many neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, research has highlighted several risk factors for cognitive decline and depression in later life, including:
Vascular risks: high blood pressure, heart disease, and high cholesterol
Lifestyle factors: diet, exercise, and cognitive activity
Changes in mood or sleep
Our goal is to determine whether addressing these risk factors can reduce cognitive decline, depression, and the brain changes associated with dementia. Our multidisciplinary team consists of geriatricians, neurologists, neuropsychologists, nurses, researchers, and students. Our research informs our practice, and we view our patients and their families as our research partners. We invite you to join us in finding effective strategies to prevent cognitive decline and enhance the wellbeing and quality of life for both individuals living with cognitive impairment, as well as their families and carers. Eligibility
Our clinic is open to individuals aged 50-90 years who have noticed new changes in cognition and/or mood. To make an appointment, we request that your GP complete a referral form and send it to bmri.hba@sydney.edu.au. Our services
Our Specialists provide a thorough assessment
If you have concerns about your memory and/or mood, the Healthy Brain Ageing Clinic can provide you with a comprehensive assessment of your cognition. Over three hours, you will be seen by a neurologist or geriatrician, a research psychologist, and a clinical neuropsychologist. Depending on your specific needs, our specialists may also recommend that you have an MRI scan, blood tests, or complete a sleep study through the Woolcock Institute of Medical Research. We also offer wrist-worn devices that you can take home to track your sleep and monitor your blood oxygen levels during sleep, helping to screen for sleep apnea. Comprehensive Care
Within two to three weeks of your assessment, our neuropsychologist will send a detailed report to your referring physician to assist with your ongoing care. We will follow up with you in 18-24 months to monitor any changes in your thinking skills, memory, and mood, with additional follow-ups every two years for up to four visits in total. As part of our clinical and public health services research, all services are provided at no cost to you.
