We will carry out a thorough assessment to establish what is causing the memory problems. Memory problems are not always caused by dementia. Once the causes are established we will work with you to address those causes. There are several types of memory problems people can have. If you are referred because of memory concerns it is very helpful to bring along a family member. It is also very important to bring all of your medications with you as these can often affect memory. A full medical examination will be done and you will be asked some questions to test your memory and concentration as well as mood. You are likely to have blood tests looking for some causes of memory loss and depending on your history you may be referred for a CT scan of your brain. This is a computerised X-ray, which involves you lying down for about 15 minutes while a machine passes over you.

This is a condition of gradual loss of memory and other functions of awareness or thinking such as concentration over time. There are several types of dementia including Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia, which is due to the same sort of illnesses that cause stroke. We offer targeted programmes designed to manage risk for those who are high risk for memory problems. These programmes have been shown by international research to significantly reduce the incidence of dementia for those at such risk.

Issues arising following a diagnosis of dementia can be many and various. These issues can include capacity, enduring powers of attorney, driving and behavioural problems. They can include increasing need for assistance in all areas for the patient and the patient’s family.

Our team have extensive expertise in addressing complex psychiatric and medical problems in older adults. The team offers a comprehensive assessment to establish the cause of the problems followed by input from our individual clinicians to formulate a treatment plan.