Alzheimer’s Disease Initiative (ADI)

Established by legislation in 1985, Florida’s Alzheimer’s Disease Initiative (ADI) aims to support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) by providing essential services that adapt to their evolving needs.

Respite Care Services

ADI offers respite care for individuals aged 18 and older who have been diagnosed with probable ADRD, characterized by cognitive impairments that impact daily living activities. This program provides temporary relief for caregivers by offering various types of care, including:

· In-home care

· Facility-based care

· Specialized adult day care

· Emergency respite care

· Extended care up to 30 days

Support for Caregivers

In addition to respite care, caregivers can access a range of supportive services through ADI, including:

· Case management

· Specialized medical equipment and supplies

· Caregiver counseling and support groups

· Caregiver training and relief

These services are delivered through the 11 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) across Florida. For information on eligibility and to find out how to access these services through your local AAA, please click here.

Memory Disorder Clinics

The Florida legislature has authorized the operation of 17 Memory Disorder Clinics (MDCs) across 13 distinct service areas. These clinics offer comprehensive diagnostic and referral services for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). In addition to diagnostic services, MDCs engage in:

  • Service-related research projects
  • Development of caregiver training programs and materials
  • Educational opportunities for caregivers, respite service providers, and healthcare professionals involved in the care of individuals with ADRD

To locate your nearest Memory Disorder Clinic, please click here.

State of Florida Brain Bank

The State of Florida Brain Bank research program is dedicated to coordinating brain tissue donations to advance scientific research aimed at curing Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). Brain donation is essential for improving the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of ADRD and is a critical method for confirming ADRD diagnoses.

Eligibility Criteria

To participate in the Brain Bank program, individuals must:

  • Reside in Florida at the time of enrollment
  • Have a diagnosis of ADRD
  • Undergo a complete neuropsychological evaluation
  • Provide available medical records

The program is partially funded by the Alzheimer’s Disease Initiative through the Department of Elder Affairs and collaborates with Mount Sinai Hospital in Miami, FL. Further information regarding the program and its enrollment process can be found here:

Resources