Memory and cognitive disorders
If you or a loved one experience sudden or disruptive memory loss, it could signal a treatable condition. Our specialists in memory loss disorders diagnose and treat the causes of cognitive impairment, improving quality of life.
Comprehensive care
Our multidisciplinary team work with memory loss and cognitive disorder patients, their families and referring physicians to coordinate and personalize treatment, follow-up care and education, and make referrals to other services when necessary.
Most health insurance plans, including Medicare are accepted, but authorization may be required. Patients should always check with their individual carriers to determine our participation with their plan and authorization requirements.
Know your risks
While age is the most common factor, there are other variables that can impact cognitive health such as family history, health conditions, social connections and lifestyle choices. Common risk factors for memory loss and cognitive decline include:
Age
Central nervous system infections
Excessive alcohol consumption
Family history
Genetics
Gender
Medication side effects and adverse drug interactions
Social isolation
Know the signs
Confused by memory changes? Learn the difference between mild memory issues and dementia. Find out about the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, frontotemporal dementia and more.
Mild cognitive impairment (memory loss) symptoms
- Changes in memory that do not interfere with daily life
- Difficulty with problem solving or planning
- Changes in language and attention
Alzheimer’s disease symptoms
- Changes in mood and personality
- Changes in memory that affect daily life
- Confusion with time, place or navigation
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks
Dementia with Lewy bodies symptoms
- Changes in cognition and attention
- Difficulty walking or moving more slowly or stiffly
- Trouble with sleep
- Visual hallucinations
Frontotemporal dementia symptoms
- Changes in personality, behavior or judgment
- Lack of interest or drive
- Language or movement problems may develop later
Primary progressive aphasia
- Difficulty in communication
- Changes in speech and language
- Difficulty with reading or writing
- Memory loss occurs later
Normal pressure hydrocephalus symptoms
- Changes in gait and balance
- Urinary incontinence
- Mild cognitive changes
Vascular disease dementia
- Impaired judgment and decision making
- Decreased attention
- Changes in speech
- Memory is relatively spared
An accurate diagnosis is crucial
Memory changes often progress slowly, which can make it difficult to assess if they are the result of normal aging or a more serious condition. In all cases, an accurate diagnosis in the early stages of neurodegenerative disease is the key to maintaining quality of life for patients and their caregivers.
Our diagnosis begins with a comprehensive assessment of the patient’s medical history and a neurological examination. This may be followed by blood work, a memory test and brain imaging depending upon the level of memory loss. In some cases, more extensive or specialized testing is needed.
Screenings and diagnostic services
Neuropsychological testing
A neuropsychological evaluation typically involves two main steps:
- In-depth Interview: A neuropsychologist will discuss your concerns and gather information about your medical history, education, and daily life. This often includes speaking with family members or caregivers involved in your care
- Standardized Testing: You'll complete a series of tests designed to assess memory, attention, language, and other cognitive skills. These tests are compared to others in your age group to identify strengths and weaknesses
Results and recommendations:
Following the evaluation, the neuropsychologist will provide a comprehensive report outlining your cognitive profile. This report may include
- Diagnosis: Based on the test results and interview, the report may include a diagnosis, if applicable.
- Treatment Recommendations: The neuropsychologist may suggest strategies to improve memory, manage cognitive challenges, and connect you with support resources.
Benefits
A neuropsychological evaluation can offer valuable insights into your cognitive functioning. It can help identify underlying causes of memory problems, differentiate between normal aging and potential concerns, and guide treatment decisions
Brain Imaging for dementia diagnosis
Dementia and other memory disorders can be challenging to diagnose. To get a clearer picture, we may recommend brain imaging scans alongside evaluations and cognitive tests.
What are brain imaging scans?
Brain imaging uses advanced technology to create detailed images of your brain. These scans can help
- Identify abnormalities like shrinkage or strokes.
- Reveal underlying causes of memory problems.
- Differentiate between different types of dementia.
Common brain imaging techniques used include:
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Creates detailed pictures of brain structure
- PET Scan (Positron Emission Tomography): Measures brain activity by tracking injected radioactive tracers.
- CT Scan (Computed Tomography): Uses X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of your brain.
What to expect:
- We'll discuss the specific scan recommended for you.
- The procedure is typically painless and is done on an outpatient basis
- Family or close friends can provide support during the appointment.
- Bring results from any prior evaluations.
After the scan:
- You'll receive a detailed report of the findings
- We'll discuss treatment recommendations based on the overall picture.
Treatments
There are a variety of treatment options for memory loss and dementia.
Medications
These assist with memory and thinking
Including psychiatry and psychotherapy
Care planning
Monitoring
Disease education
Social work services
Referrals to other programs and services
Memory and cognitive disorder support resources
At Atlantic Health System, we understand the challenges faced by patients with memory loss and their families. To empower you on this journey, we offer a range of supportive resources.
Wellness and support programs
These programs offer neurodegenerative disease patients and their families educational seminars, resources, counseling and therapy services. For more about upcoming program dates, please call 908-522-3517.
Dementia caregiver support group
A group for caregivers of loved ones with a dementia diagnosis (such as Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia). This group provides a safe space to share your experiences and gain insight from others. During this time, caregivers can also learn more about the diagnoses, stages and progression, long-term planning, and resources available to them.
- 2024 Dates: August 9, September 6, October 4, November 1, December 13
- Time: 10:30-11:30 am
- Location: Overlook Medical Center, Conference Room 1, 5th Floor
- For more information, please call 908-522-3517
Dementia resource guide
Created by a team of social workers at Atlantic Neuroscience Institute, this guide can be used by patients and caregivers to find resources that can be helpful for diagnosis, support, and next steps following a diagnosis.
Memory Loss Questions to Ask
Knowing the difference between simple forgetfulness and a serious memory loss condition is not always easy. The following questions may help determine if a professional evaluation may be necessary:
- Are you becoming more forgetful?
- Do you have difficulty performing familiar tasks?
- Have family or friends told you that you are repeating questions or saying the same thing over and over again?
- Do you have trouble recalling words or names in conversation?
- Do you have trouble concentrating?
- Do you sometimes forget where you are or where you are going?
- Are you misplacing things more often?
- Have you become lost when walking or driving?
- Have your family or friends noticed changes in mood, behavior, personality or desire to do things?
If you have answered yes to any of these questions, please call the Memory and Cognitive Disorders Program.