This allows us to notify the patient's doctor, nursing home personnel if applicable, and the funeral home director of the family's decision. In addition, family members need time to discuss this issue and to explore any possible disagreements. Yes, the results of the brain autopsy are made available to family members who desire this information. You may want to discuss the issue among other family members to be sure all are in agreement. No, to understand the causes of dementing illnesses and improve diagnosis researchers need to compare brain tissue from people affected by dementia to brain tissue from people not affected.
Most religions support brain autopsy and tissue donation.
If you are concerned about donation and your religious faith, we suggest discussing this with your spiritual leader. A brain autopsy has no effect on funeral arrangements. It does not delay the burial process. It does not leave any visible marks and does not interfere with an open casket funeral or cremation. Yes, you can change your mind at any time by calling or writing to us.