Have you ever walked into a room and forgotten why you were there? Or misplaced your keys? Or were unable to put a name to a face? Most of the time, these examples of forgetfulness are due to obvious factors such as lack of attention, fatigue, or stress. Yet, despite being a common phenomenon, our understanding of the biological basis of how and why we remember is still incomplete.

On the other hand, we are gaining more and more knowledge about the various conditions that can impair memory and cognitive function. Much attention has been focused on Alzheimer’s disease, the most recognized condition affecting memory associated with aging. In 2009, an estimated 5.3 million Americans had Alzheimer’s disease and this number is forecast to double by mid-century. Matching the growth of the disease has been the pace of research into it: major strides have been made in discovering the mechanisms involved in the disease, along with means for more accurate detection and treatment.

However, many other medical conditions can impair cognition including stroke, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, head trauma and ALS among others. Traditionally, at most research centers, a group of scientists focuses on a specific disease with little collaboration between groups. Yet, it has become increasingly clear that there are features that cut across these disease states.

Recognizing this, Keep Memory Alive in association with the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health has integrated into one location research among various disorders to facilitate the sharing of ideas, with a breadth and scope beyond anything in today’s university systems.

To foster this “New Thinking About Thinking,” Keep Memory Alive has hosted think tanks, some of which have led to public policy initiatives. In March 2009, a National Alzheimer’s Strategic Plan was presented to the 111th Congress and the Obama administration. On July 22, 2009, the Alzheimer’s Breakthrough Act of 2009 was presented to the 111th Congress.

Yet we have only just begun. The work in front of us—to improve the diagnosis and treatment of the disorders that destroy cognition—will last for a generation. We will not be able to do this alone, yet Keep Memory Alive and the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health will play a prominent role in this work that lies ahead.