Impairment of memory and other intellectual functions that develop in adulthood can result from a variety of medical problems. These may include small strokes, depression, thyroid dysfunction, or vitamin deficiency. These disorders can produce difficulties in memory, attention, concentration, judgment, personality and mood. It is therefore essential that a thorough clinical evaluation be performed to rule out these causes of impaired mental functioning.
     In the Honoring Our Elders Memory Clinic, patient evaluation is performed by a multi-disciplinary team of physicians, nurses, and other professionals who are involved in patient care and research in Alzheimer's disease and other related conditions. Included on the team are neurology, psychiatry, and psychological personnel, who use laboratory and radiological testing in consultation with other specialists to provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment recommendations.
     The evaluation process involves neurological and psychiatric examinations. Blood tests and imaging procedures are often ordered at this time. A nero-psychologist conducts tests to evaluate quantitatively each patient's ability to reason, remember and perform other mental tasks. Some patients may require further examination by other members of our multi-disciplinary team. Those will be scheduled as necessary. Following the evaluation, patients and their families take part in a session to discuss diagnosis, possible treatments and other issues.
     Depending on the outcome of the evaluation, treatment can be offered to most patients. Although there is presently no cure for Alzheimer's disease, clinic physicians can offer medications to deal with specific behaviors such as agitation and depression and can prescribe Food and Drug Administration approved medications for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
     The evaluation process involves neurological and psychiatric examinations. Blood tests and imaging procedures are often ordered at this time. A nero-psychologist conducts tests to evaluate quantitatively each patient's ability to reason, remember and perform other mental tasks. Some patients may require further examination by other members of our multi-disciplinary team. Those will be scheduled as necessary. Following the evaluation, patients and their families take part in a session to discuss diagnosis, possible treatments and other issues.

Have you noticed changes like these listed below in someone you know?

1. Forgets things more often - such as job skills.
2. Has problems doing familiar things - such as cooking.
3. Puts things in strange places - such as car keys in the refrigerator.
4. Forgets common words or uses the wrong words.
5. Has frequent problems with complicated tasks - such as balancing a checkbook.
6. Has a major change in personality (confused, suspicious or afraid).
7. Is confused about where they are (or what time or day it is).
8. Has lost interest in doing things - or loses interest quickly if not encouraged.
9. Has a sudden change in mood or behavior.
10. Do things that do not seem to make sense.

     If you or someone you know has several of these problems, it may be an early sign of Alzheimer's disease. Severe memory loss is not part of the normal process of growing older. Therefore, it is important to be examined by a doctor for proper and early diagnosis.

For Appointments call

(800) 349-7026 Ext. 6368

(918) 567-7000 Ext. 6368