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SMC International connects international patients with 50+ expert doctors across 8 crucial wellness and investment pages, simplifying global healthcare access.

Can Americans travel to Cuba for Alzheimer's treatment?

Yes. U.S. citizens can travel to Cuba under approved categories. SMC Salud provides all necessary documentation, including the letter of medical necessity and treatment confirmation, to support travel authorization. Direct charter flights are available from Miami, Tampa, and Fort Lauderdale.

How does Cuba's Alzheimer's rehabilitation compare to U.S. standard care?

The key difference is intensity and coordination. In the U.S., Alzheimer's patients typically receive medication management and 1–2 hours of therapy per week (insurance-limited). At CIREN in Havana, patients receive 4–6 hours of daily multidisciplinary therapy — roughly 20–30 times more therapy in a concentrated period — coordinated by a single team of neurologists, neuropsychologists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and physical therapists.

Is NeuroEPO a cure for Alzheimer's?

No. There is currently no cure for Alzheimer's disease. NeuroEPO is a neuroprotective research approach that aims to slow cognitive decline and support remaining brain function. The Cuban program combines NeuroEPO (where indicated) with intensive cognitive rehabilitation, pharmacological management, and caregiver education to maximize quality of life and maintain function for as long as possible. Individual outcomes vary.

Can I get a second opinion for Alzheimer's from Cuba?

Yes. Many American families seek a second opinion from Cuba's neurology team, particularly when U.S. treatment options have been exhausted or when the patient's Alzheimer's has progressed beyond the mild stage where FDA-approved anti-amyloid drugs (lecanemab, donanemab) are indicated. Submit your neuropsychological testing, MRI, and medical history for review — the team provides an independent assessment and treatment recommendation.

What can be done for Alzheimer's patients who don't qualify for lecanemab?

FDA-approved anti-amyloid drugs (lecanemab/Leqembi, donanemab/Kisunla) are limited to mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia due to Alzheimer's, carry ARIA risks, and cost $26,000–$32,000+ per year. For the millions of Americans whose Alzheimer's has progressed beyond the mild stage, or who cannot tolerate these medications, Cuba offers an alternative approach: intensive cognitive rehabilitation, NeuroEPO neuroprotective research, pharmacological optimization, and structured caregiver education.

Does U.S. health insurance or Medicare cover Alzheimer's treatment in Cuba?

No. Medicare, Medicaid, and U.S. private health insurance typically do not cover treatment in Cuba. Patients are responsible for the full cost. However, HSA/FSA funds may be usable for qualified medical expenses abroad — consult your plan administrator. Medical expenses may also be tax-deductible if they exceed 7.5% of adjusted gross income. The secure payment gateway accepts U.S. credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex).

What is the Alzheimer's caregiver support program in Cuba?

Caregiver education is a mandatory, core component of the Cuban Alzheimer's program at CIREN — not an optional add-on. Caregivers receive hands-on training in cognitive stimulation techniques, daily routine management, communication strategies, behavioral management, safety and fall prevention, medication management, and self-care. A comprehensive written guide is provided for ongoing reference at home.

What is early Alzheimer's evaluation and why does it matter?

The Alzheimer's Association notes that early and accurate diagnosis can help patients explore treatment options, maintain independence longer, and consider clinical trials. Cuba's early evaluation program includes detailed neuropsychological testing, brain MRI, blood work, and multidisciplinary team assessment — designed for patients with mild cognitive impairment or early-stage Alzheimer's where intervention is most effective.

How quickly will we see changes during the intensive rehabilitation program?

Many families observe increased alertness, improved engagement, and better communication within the first 1–2 weeks of daily therapy. Measurable gains in specific cognitive domains (attention, word-finding, task initiation) are assessed throughout the program by the neuropsychology team. The most durable benefits come from combining the intensive in-clinic program with structured caregiver-led cognitive stimulation continued at home after return.

Will the cognitive rehabilitation program stop my loved one's Alzheimer's from getting worse?

No treatment currently stops the underlying progression of Alzheimer's disease. Cuba's program is designed to slow the rate of decline, maximize preserved function, and improve quality of life for as long as possible. The intensive therapy model leverages neuroplasticity — the brain's ability to reorganize and compensate — to strengthen remaining cognitive capacities. Families should view this as a supportive, rehabilitative approach, not a disease-halting one.

What happens if cognitive rehabilitation doesn't help our family member?

Every patient is individually evaluated before acceptance into the program. If the multidisciplinary team determines during the initial assessment that intensive rehabilitation is unlikely to provide meaningful benefit — for example, in advanced-stage Alzheimer's where rehabilitation potential is limited — they will communicate this honestly and may recommend alternative supportive care approaches instead. Transparency about expected benefit is a core principle of the Cuban program.

How long is the intensive cognitive rehabilitation program in Cuba?

The standard intensive program at CIREN runs 4 weeks, with options to extend to 6 or 8 weeks depending on the patient's progress, tolerance, and treatment goals. Each week includes 5 days of therapy, with 4–6 hours of daily multidisciplinary sessions. The total therapy delivered in a 4-week program (80–120 hours) exceeds what a U.S. patient would typically receive in 1–2 years of weekly outpatient sessions.

What is the recovery timeline after returning home from Cuba?

There is no traditional 'recovery' period — the patient returns home with a comprehensive medical report and a personalized home-continuation program. Families are trained to continue cognitive stimulation exercises, daily routines, and communication strategies at home. Scheduled telemedicine follow-ups with the Cuban team help monitor progress and adjust the home program. The benefits of the intensive program are sustained through consistent caregiver-led continuation; without it, gains may gradually diminish over months.

How often do patients need to return to Cuba for follow-up treatment?

Some families choose to return for a second intensive program 6–12 months later, particularly for patients in the mild-to-moderate stage where ongoing neuroprotective support and rehabilitation reinforcement may be beneficial. Others maintain progress through the telemedicine follow-up program and home-continuation plan without returning. The need for a return visit is assessed individually based on the patient's progress, disease trajectory, and family goals — there is no mandatory return schedule.

How long does the medical review take before we can travel to Cuba?

After submitting medical records (neuropsychological testing, MRI, blood work, and medication list), the neurology team reviews them and responds with a treatment proposal within 5–10 business days. If the proposal is accepted, travel coordination — including travel authorization documentation, flight booking, and accommodation — typically takes an additional 2–4 weeks. Most families complete the full process from submission to arrival in Havana within 4–6 weeks.

Who is eligible for the Alzheimer's cognitive rehabilitation program in Cuba?

Eligibility is determined through individual medical review. The program most commonly accepts patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease, and other dementias where rehabilitation potential exists. Patients must be medically stable enough to travel and participate in daily intensive therapy. The multidisciplinary team reviews each case individually — acceptance is based on diagnosis, stage, overall health, and expected benefit, not on a fixed checklist.

Is there a stage of Alzheimer's that is too advanced for the Cuban program?

Yes. Patients with severe or end-stage Alzheimer's — where the ability to participate in active therapy is significantly compromised — may not benefit from intensive rehabilitation and may not be accepted into the program. The team evaluates cognitive stage, ability to engage with therapy, medical stability, and overall benefit potential during the medical review. If the team determines the program would not provide meaningful benefit, they communicate this honestly. This is why the pre-travel medical review is essential.

What medical records are required for the eligibility evaluation?

The medical review requires: (1) recent neuropsychological testing or cognitive assessment results, (2) brain MRI (or CT scan) report and images, (3) comprehensive blood work (CBC, metabolic panel, thyroid function, vitamin B12, folate), (4) current medication list, and (5) a summary of the patient's medical history and current clinical status. Additional records may be requested based on the individual case. All records can be submitted securely through our online upload portal.

Can patients with other health conditions besides Alzheimer's participate in the program?

Many Alzheimer's patients have co-existing conditions (hypertension, diabetes, heart disease). The multidisciplinary team evaluates overall medical stability during the review. Patients must be stable enough to travel internationally and participate in 4–6 hours of daily therapy. The team coordinates pharmacological management of co-existing conditions during the program. However, certain acute or unstable conditions may delay or preclude participation until they are managed — this is assessed case by case.

Do patients need to be accompanied by a caregiver to participate?

Yes. A family member or designated caregiver must accompany the patient. Caregiver participation is not optional — it is a core component of the program. The caregiver receives mandatory, structured training in cognitive stimulation techniques, daily routine management, communication strategies, behavioral management, and self-care. This training is essential for sustaining the program's benefits after return home and is often cited by American families as the most valuable part of the experience.

Alzheimer's Treatment in Cuba for U.S. Patients | NeuroEPO, CIREN Rehabilitation & Second Opinions

Is This Program Right for Your Family?

Who Benefits from Alzheimer's Treatment in Cuba

Cuba's Alzheimer's program serves American families across the full spectrum of the disease — from early evaluation to intensive rehabilitation for moderate-stage patients. If any of these describe your situation, Cuba's international treatment program may offer options worth exploring.

Early-Stage Alzheimer's Patients

Intensive cognitive rehabilitation is most effective when started early. NeuroEPO research is available for mild cognitive impairment and mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's.

Families Seeking Additional Options

When FDA-approved treatments aren't enough, or Alzheimer's has progressed beyond the mild stage, Cuba offers a fundamentally different approach.

Second-Opinion Patients

Independent neurology review by Cuba's multidisciplinary team — a fresh perspective on diagnosis, stage, and treatment options.

Cognitive & Neurological Rehabilitation

4–6 hours of daily multidisciplinary therapy at CIREN — 20–30× more therapy than U.S. insurance-limited standard care.

Multidisciplinary Assessment Seekers

Comprehensive clinical evaluation — neuropsychological testing, MRI, blood work, and full-team assessment in one coordinated program.

Caregivers Seeking International Programs

Mandatory, structured caregiver training in cognitive stimulation, daily care, communication, and behavioral management.

Alzheimer's Treatment Options

What Can Be Done for Alzheimer's Patients in Cuba

Cuba's Alzheimer's program combines biotechnology research with intensive rehabilitation, pharmacological management, and caregiver education — a multidisciplinary approach that addresses multiple aspects of neurodegeneration simultaneously.

NeuroEPO Neuroprotective Research

Cuba's CIGB-developed recombinant erythropoietin for intranasal delivery, investigated for neuroprotective effects in mild cognitive impairment and mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's. Not FDA-approved, not available in the U.S.

Intensive Cognitive Rehabilitation

4–6 hours of daily multidisciplinary therapy at CIREN — neuropsychology, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and physical therapy coordinated by a single team.

Comprehensive Clinical Evaluation

Full neurological exam, neuropsychological testing, MRI review, blood work, and multidisciplinary team assessment to determine cognitive stage and build a personalized plan.

Pharmacological Management

Optimization of cholinesterase inhibitors, memantine, and other medications by a Cuban neurologist — coordinated with your U.S. neurologist's current regimen.

Caregiver Support & Training

Mandatory, structured caregiver education in cognitive stimulation, daily routines, communication strategies, behavioral management, and self-care.

Memory Loss Treatment Program

Targeted programs for patients experiencing memory loss, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and early-stage dementia — aiming to slow decline and maintain independence.

No treatment currently cures Alzheimer's disease. Cuba's program aims to slow cognitive decline, maintain function, and improve quality of life. NeuroEPO is investigational and not FDA-approved. Treatment suitability is determined after individual medical evaluation. Individual outcomes vary.

Cognitive Rehabilitation for Alzheimer's

Intensive Cognitive Rehabilitation at CIREN

CIREN — the International Center for Neurological Restoration in Havana — is one of the world's leading institutions for neurological rehabilitation. Its Alzheimer's rehabilitation program delivers 4–6 hours of daily multidisciplinary therapy, 5 days a week, for 4–8 weeks.

Memory therapy — reminiscence, memory books, spaced retrieval training
Attention training — sustained, selective, and divided attention exercises
Language therapy — word-finding, comprehension, and expression
Executive function — planning, problem-solving, and reasoning
Occupational therapy — maintaining daily living skills and independence
Physical therapy — mobility, balance, and overall health

Learn About Cognitive Rehabilitation

20–30×

more therapy than U.S. standard care

U.S. standard therapy1–2 hrs/week

CIREN intensive therapy4–6 hrs/day

Program duration4–8 weeks

Total therapy hours80–240 hours

Neuropsychological Testing

Detailed assessment of memory, attention, language, and executive function

Brain MRI Review

Assess hippocampal atrophy and other early markers

Comprehensive Blood Work

Rule out reversible causes of cognitive decline

Multidisciplinary Team Assessment

Neurologist, neuropsychologist, and rehabilitation specialist

Early Alzheimer's Evaluation & Assessment

Early Evaluation: The Strongest Treatment Angle

The Alzheimer's Association notes that early and accurate diagnosis can help patients explore treatment options, maintain independence longer, and consider clinical trials. Cuba's early evaluation program provides comprehensive assessment for patients with mild cognitive impairment and early-stage Alzheimer's — when intervention is most effective.

Early intervention offers the best opportunity to slow cognitive decline and maintain function. NeuroEPO research is available for mild cognitive impairment and mild Alzheimer's. Intensive cognitive rehabilitation is most effective when started early, when neuroplasticity is greatest.

Learn About Early Evaluation

Dementia Rehabilitation

Dementia Care Programs for All Types

Cuba's dementia rehabilitation programs address the full spectrum of cognitive decline — Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. Each program is personalized based on the specific type and stage of dementia.

Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)

Optimal window for neuroprotective intervention

Mild Alzheimer's Disease

Intensive cognitive rehabilitation + NeuroEPO research

Moderate Alzheimer's Disease

Rehabilitation + behavioral management + caregiver training

Memory Loss Evaluation

Comprehensive diagnostic workup for memory disorders

Explore Dementia Rehabilitation

Alzheimer's Second Opinion Abroad

Seeking a Second Opinion from Cuba

Many American families seek a second opinion from Cuba's neurology team — particularly when U.S. treatment options have been exhausted, when Alzheimer's has progressed beyond the mild stage, or when intensive rehabilitation is desired as a complement to current care.

Independent assessment by Cuba's multidisciplinary neurology team
Review of neuropsychological testing, MRI, and medical history
Evaluation for NeuroEPO suitability and intensive rehabilitation
Comprehensive medical report for your U.S. neurologist
No obligation to travel — review is complimentary with submission

Learn About Second Opinions

Alzheimer's Rehabilitation Comparison

Cuba's CIREN Model vs. U.S. Standard Alzheimer's Care

The most significant difference between Cuban and U.S. Alzheimer's care is the intensity and coordination of rehabilitation. Understanding this difference helps American families make informed decisions.

Aspect	U.S. Standard Care	Cuba's CIREN Model
Therapy Intensity	1–2 hours per week (insurance-limited)	4–6 hours per day, 5 days a week
Team Coordination	Separate specialists, separate appointments	Single multidisciplinary team, coordinated daily
Neuroprotective Research	Not available (NeuroEPO is not FDA-approved)	NeuroEPO intranasal therapy under research protocols
Anti-Amyloid Drugs	Lecanemab ($26K+/yr), donanemab ($32K+/yr) — ARIA risks	Different approach — neuroprotection, not amyloid clearance
Caregiver Training	Optional support groups, limited formal training	Mandatory, structured, hands-on caregiver education
Program Duration	Ongoing medication, occasional visits	4–8 week intensive in-clinic program + telemedicine follow-up
Cost (Annual)	$40,000–$144,000+ (drugs, memory care, in-home care)	All-inclusive program — transparent pricing after review

Alzheimer's Treatment Outside the USA — By State

State-by-State Alzheimer's Treatment Guides

We've prioritized the 10 U.S. states with the highest Alzheimer's prevalence. Each state page includes local statistics, travel logistics, departure airports, and state-specific context for families considering treatment in Cuba.

Florida

580K cases

Texas

400K cases

California

720K cases

New York

410K cases

Pennsylvania

280K cases

Ohio

220K cases

Michigan

190K cases

Georgia

150K cases

North Carolina

180K cases

Illinois

230K cases

Louisiana

89K cases

Maryland

110K cases

Mississippi

57K cases

South Carolina

95K cases

Oklahoma

67K cases

Southeastern United States

1.1M cases

Southern United States

1.4M cases

Eastern United States

3.2M cases

East Coast

2.2M cases

International Alzheimer's Treatment Program

From U.S. Home to Havana and Back

SMC Salud coordinates every step — from medical review to travel authorization, intensive treatment, caregiver training, and telemedicine follow-up after you return home.

01

Submit Medical Records

Send neuropsychological testing, MRI, blood work, and medication list for review. The neurology team responds within 5–10 business days with a treatment proposal.

02

Travel to Havana

Direct charter flights from Miami, Tampa, or Fort Lauderdale. SMC Salud provides travel authorization documentation and airport reception in Havana.

03

Intensive Treatment Program

4–8 weeks of daily multidisciplinary therapy at CIREN, NeuroEPO where indicated, pharmacological management, and caregiver training — all in English.

04

Return Home with a Plan

Comprehensive medical report for your U.S. neurologist, personalized home-continuation program, and ongoing telemedicine follow-up with the Cuban team.

Meet the Neurology Team

The Specialists Behind Cuba's Alzheimer's Program

Cuba's Alzheimer's and cognitive rehabilitation program at CIREN is led by a multidisciplinary team of neurologists, neuropsychologists, and rehabilitation specialists with decades of combined experience in neurodegenerative care.

MR

Dr. María Rodríguez

Lead Neurologist — Cognitive Disorders

Neurology · Clinical Neurophysiology

24+ yearsof clinical experience

Credentials

Specialist in Neurology, University of Havana
Senior researcher, CIREN Cognitive Disorders Unit
Member, Cuban Society of Neurology

Clinical Focus

Alzheimer's diseaseMild cognitive impairmentNeuroprotective therapy

1,800+

International patients evaluated

30+

Peer-reviewed publications

JC

Dr. Jorge Castellanos

Senior Neuropsychologist

Neuropsychology · Cognitive Assessment

19+ yearsof clinical experience

Credentials

PhD in Neuropsychology, University of Havana
Lead assessor, CIREN Neuropsychology Lab
Specialist in dementia staging and cognitive profiling

Clinical Focus

Neuropsychological testingCognitive rehabilitation designDementia staging

3,200+

Cognitive assessments conducted

19

Years in neurodegenerative care

AG

Dr. Ana García

Rehabilitation Medicine Specialist

Physical Medicine · Rehabilitation

17+ yearsof clinical experience

Credentials

Specialist in Physical & Rehabilitation Medicine
Coordinator, CIREN Multidisciplinary Therapy Team
Certified in neuroplasticity-based rehabilitation protocols

Clinical Focus

Intensive cognitive rehabilitationOccupational therapyCaregiver training programs

1,100+

Rehabilitation programs directed

12

Multidisciplinary team members led

The full multidisciplinary team also includes occupational therapists, speech therapists, physical therapists, and neurology nurses. Individual team composition is assigned based on each patient's clinical needs after medical evaluation. Specialist availability is subject to the program schedule.

Request a Consultation View All Specialists

Travel, Cost & Payment for U.S. Patients

What American Families Need to Know

Travel Authorization

• U.S. citizens can travel to Cuba under approved categories
• SMC Salud provides letter of medical necessity
• Direct charter flights from Miami, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale
• Connecting flights via Mexico, Canada, or Bahamas
• Airport reception and ground transport in Havana

Cost & Insurance

• All-inclusive program (medical care + therapy + accommodation + meals)
• Transparent pricing after medical review
• U.S. insurance & Medicare do not cover Cuba treatment
• HSA/FSA funds may be usable — consult your plan administrator
• Medical expenses may be tax-deductible (over 7.5% AGI)

Payment Methods

• Secure online gateway — U.S. credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex)
• International bank transfers in EUR, GBP, or CAD
• USD bank transfers are not accepted
• Itemized invoices provided for HSA/FSA reimbursement
• Comprehensive medical documentation for tax purposes

Alzheimer's Treatment Abroad — Frequently Asked Questions

Questions from American Families

Cuba offers NeuroEPO — a neuroprotective recombinant erythropoietin developed by CIGB for intranasal delivery, investigated for mild cognitive impairment and mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's. It is not FDA-approved and is not available in the United States. Combined with CIREN's intensive cognitive rehabilitation (4–6 hours of daily therapy), this approach is fundamentally different from U.S. standard care.

Alzheimer's Cognitive Rehabilitation — Treatment Expectations, Timelines & Eligibility

What to Expect from Cognitive Rehabilitation

Detailed answers about treatment expectations, recovery timelines, and eligibility criteria for international patients considering Cuba's intensive cognitive rehabilitation program at CIREN.

Cuba's cognitive rehabilitation program aims to slow cognitive decline, strengthen preserved abilities, and maintain independence in daily activities — not to reverse or cure Alzheimer's disease. Families typically report improvements in attention, communication, daily-task engagement, and quality of life during the intensive program. The degree of improvement depends on the stage of disease, the patient's overall health, and consistency of caregiver-led continuation at home. No specific outcome is guaranteed; individual results vary.

All eligibility and treatment-expectation information is general in nature. Individual suitability is determined only after a full medical review of the patient's diagnosis, stage, imaging, and current clinical status. No specific outcome is guaranteed.

Patient Assessment Form

Start Your Medical Evaluation

Complete this secure assessment to help Cuba's neurology team understand your condition and determine whether an international treatment program may be appropriate. All information is confidential.

Your Information

Medical History

Condition Details

Upload Records

Review & Submit

Step 1 of 5 — Your Information

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Submit your medical records for a complimentary review by Cuba's neurology team. Receive a personalized treatment proposal within 5–10 business days — no obligation to travel.

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Alzheimer's Treatment in CubaNeuroEPO, Cognitive Rehabilitation & Second Opinions for U.S. Patients

Who Benefits from Alzheimer's Treatment in Cuba

Early-Stage Alzheimer's Patients

Families Seeking Additional Options

Second-Opinion Patients

Cognitive & Neurological Rehabilitation

Multidisciplinary Assessment Seekers

Caregivers Seeking International Programs

What Can Be Done for Alzheimer's Patients in Cuba

NeuroEPO Neuroprotective Research

Intensive Cognitive Rehabilitation

Comprehensive Clinical Evaluation

Pharmacological Management

Caregiver Support & Training

Memory Loss Treatment Program

Intensive Cognitive Rehabilitation at CIREN

Early Evaluation: The Strongest Treatment Angle

Dementia Care Programs for All Types

Seeking a Second Opinion from Cuba

Cuba's CIREN Model vs. U.S. Standard Alzheimer's Care

State-by-State Alzheimer's Treatment Guides

From U.S. Home to Havana and Back

Submit Medical Records

Travel to Havana

Intensive Treatment Program

Return Home with a Plan

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The Specialists Behind Cuba's Alzheimer's Program

Dr. María Rodríguez

Dr. Jorge Castellanos

Dr. Ana García

What American Families Need to Know

Travel Authorization

Cost & Insurance

Payment Methods

Questions from American Families

What to Expect from Cognitive Rehabilitation

Start Your Medical Evaluation

Your Information

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