Toronto Memory Program

09/03/2026

Could a simple blood test help identify Alzheimer’s risk years before memory symptoms begin?

New research presented at the 2026 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference looked at a blood marker called p-tau217, a protein associated with Alzheimer’s-related changes in the brain. Researchers followed nearly 2,700 older adults who had no memory or thinking problems when the study began and found that higher p-tau217 levels were associated with a greater risk of developing cognitive impairment over the following years.

These findings are especially exciting for Alzheimer’s prevention research, where identifying people at increased risk before symptoms appear could one day allow for earlier monitoring and intervention.

🔗 Read more from the Alzheimer’s Association:

A blood test detecting p-tau217, a protein linked to Alzheimer’s, may help predict cognitive impairment in older adults a decade before symptoms appear.

08/20/2026

This may look overwhelming, but it represents something very exciting: the breadth of Alzheimer’s disease treatments currently in development.

As of January 1, 2026, this figure maps drugs in clinical trials across Phases 1–3, spanning disease-modifying therapies, biologics, cognitive treatments, and approaches targeting behavioral and neuropsychiatric symptoms.

Each point represents another avenue being explored to improve how Alzheimer’s disease is treated—and a reminder of just how active the research pipeline has become.

Source: Cummings et al., Alzheimer’s & Dementia: Translational Research & Clinical Interventions

08/17/2026

While there is no cure for dementia, up to 45% of the risks can be attributed to modifiable risk factors such as to***co, alcohol use, social isolation, physical inactivity, air pollution and noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including high blood pressure and diabetes.

The World Health Organization (WHO) today released updated guidelines on reducing the risk of cognitive decline and dementia, providing countries with evidence-based recommendations to help prevent or delay the onset of dementia across the life course.

07/09/2026

A good night's sleep is essential for good health and functioning. It revitalizes the mind and body and prepares you to perform at your best the following day. Researchers define a good night's sleep in terms of quantity (not too little or too much) and quality (falling asleep quickly and staying asleep).

But many people don't get the amount of sleep needed to function at their best, or they spend too much time awake during the night. According to the CDC, more than one-third of adults in the U.S. don't get enough sleep: 14.5% have trouble falling asleep, and 17.8% have trouble staying asleep. Good sleep hygiene can help.

Discover simple sleep hygiene practices to improve your rest. Learn healthy sleep habits and advice for creating a bedtime routine for better sleep....

07/06/2026

Last month, our Medical Director, Dr. Sharon Cohen, joined Maria Shriver to discuss some of the latest breakthroughs in Alzheimer's disease—from advances in diagnosis to emerging treatment options and what they mean for patients and families.

Watch the interview here:

June is Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month and we are celebrating ...

06/01/2026

Dr. Sharon Cohen, Medical Director of Toronto Memory Program, joined the shoelace-tying ceremony at the Walk for Alzheimer’s this past weekend in Toronto, helping kick off a day dedicated to raising awareness, supporting families, and advancing the fight against dementia. We are proud to stand alongside our community in support of those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

05/20/2026

This Clinical Trials Day, our team at Headlands Toronto Memory Program is celebrating the resilience, passion, and purpose that keep research moving forward. The 2026 theme, “Research Rising,” recognizes the dedication of clinical research professionals who continue to adapt, innovate, and persevere in pursuit of better outcomes for patients everywhere.

https://youtu.be/kkaKRfjMvf8

This Clinical Trials Day, the team at Headlands Toronto Memory Program is celebrating the resilience, passion, and purpose that keep research moving forward....

05/05/2026

Health Canada has approved a second drug that can slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

The drug “provides an important opportunity for early patients to maintain their independence,” said Dr. Sharon Cohen, neurologist and medical director at Toronto Memory Program.

This is the second disease-slowing drug for Alzheimer’s that has been approved in Canada, after Health Canada approved lecanemab, commercially known as Leqembi, in October 2025.

05/04/2026

Today, after more than 35 years of commitment to advancing Alzheimer's research, Lilly Canada announced Health Canada's approval of Kisunla (donanemab). Kisunla is approved as a once-monthly treatment for people living with early symptomatic Alzheimer's disease. Kisunla is indicated for the treatment of adults with a clinical diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or mild dementia due to Alzheimer's disease, who are apolipoprotein E ε4 (ApoE ε4) heterozygotes or non-carriers, and have confirmed amyloid pathology. In addition to Canada, Kisunla is approved in 48 markets, globally.

"Changing the downward trajectory of Alzheimer's disease is of the utmost importance. Individuals at early stages of this disease live in their own homes and lead robust lives but often dread what is to come. Kisunla provides an important opportunity for early patients to maintain their independence, continue to engage in activities that they value, and to have a greater sense of hopefulness about their future." Dr. Sharon, Cohen, neurologist and medical director, Toronto Memory Program community-based medical facility.

/CNW/ - Today, after more than 35 years of commitment to advancing Alzheimer's research, Lilly Canada announced Health Canada's approval of Kisunla™...

04/23/2026

The weather is warming up—spring is a great time to get outside!

Even a short 10–15 minute walk can:
✔️ Boost mood
✔️ Support memory
✔️ Improve sleep

Regular walking has been shown to support brain health and overall well-being in older adults.

Tip: Try walking at the same time each day to build a healthy routine.

Learn more:

Regular physical activity is one of the best things that you can do to reduce your risk of developing dementia.