Aaron R. Ritter, MD
Larkin Family Endowed Chair in Integrative Brain Health & Director, Memory and Cognitive Disorders Program
Dr. Ritter completed specialized training in psychiatry and behavioral neurology, and has led groundbreaking research on dementia and head trauma, including other contributions to the field.
Board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, Dr. Ritter completed a psychiatry residency at the University of Arizona and a fellowship in behavioral neurology at Cleveland Clinic, focusing on Alzheimer’s, Lewy body disease, and other dementias. As a principal investigator on numerous studies, he has secured NIH and Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation funding and led the largest study on head trauma in professional athletes.
Recognized with honors like the Las Vegas HEALS Inspired Excellence Award, he is also celebrated for his teaching and has published extensively on dementia. Dr. Ritter earned his medical degree from the University of Colorado.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Specialized focus on this progressive neurological disorder that causes memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes, ultimately impairing daily functioning and quality of life.
Lewy Body Disease
Support with this progressive neurological disorder characterized by abnormal protein deposits in the brain, leading to cognitive decline, movement difficulties, and symptoms such as visual hallucinations and fluctuating alertness.
Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy
Provide care through advanced diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, and support for managing cognitive, emotional, and neurological symptoms.
Frontotemporal Dementia
Focus on a group of disorders caused by nerve cell damage in the brain's frontal and temporal lobes, leading to changes in behavior, personality, language, and decision-making.
Patient Testimonial Carousel
“Dr. Ritter is absolutely wonderful. He not only cared about my concerns, but truly listened to my story. He takes his time, making me and my family feel very assured and addressing every need.”
Awards & Accolades
Named OC Register’s 150 Most Influential People in Orange County 2023
Honoree Greater Irvine Chamber of Commerce Excellence in Healthcare and Innovation (2024)
One of the Few Fellowship-Trained Neuropsychiatrists Specializing in Dementia and Alzheimer’s
Media Spotlight
Article
Hoag Memorial Taps Dr. Aaron Ritter for Brain Health Program Post- September 13, 2022
- 1 min read
Article
‘This Has Never Been Done Before:’ Plans Progress for Richard H. Pickup Center for Brain Health- June 5, 2024
- 3 min read
Program Leadership
The Memory and Cognitive Disorders Program
Hoag Neuroscience Institute
The Memory and Cognitive Disorders Program treats people suffering from neurological diseases including Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body disease, and chronic traumatic encephalopathy.
More about this programGet in touch to schedule a consultation with the Memory & Cognitive Disorders Program.
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