The purpose of this study is to further define the neurological and linguistic deterioration in primary progressive aphasia.

The Language in Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA) aims to understand the behavioral, anatomical and physiological changes in people with PPA throughout the course of the illness. The researchers in this study want to increase awareness of PPA, educate others about this unique disorder, and to encourage more research to eventually develop therapies.

During the three-day research program, participants will be asked to undergo neuropsychological testing (paper and pencil tests that evaluate cognition), advanced imaging (MRI and PET), cognitive experiments, and other computer and language testing batteries. Participants may be asked to return every two years to complete the same measures.

For participants not living near Chicago, IL, flights and accommodations (for both the person with PPA and their companion) will be covered by the study.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of primary progressive aphasia
• Right-handed
• Native English speaker
• Visual acuity of 20/30 corrected
• Adequate hearing to follow conversation
• Safe for an MRI scan

Exclusion Criteria:

• Left-handedness
• Claustrophobia
• Presence of significant medical illness that initially or in the future could interfere with continued participation in the study

Participants with PPA will be recruited from the Northwestern University Alzheimer's Disease Center Core registry, the Northwestern University Neurobehavior and Memory Clinic, and from those who contact the center that are interested in PPA research.