|  As
the population gets older, the incidence of Alzheimer's disease increases dramatically.
One in ten persons over the age of 65 and nearly half of those over 85 have
Alzheimer's disease. A thorough evaluation should include neurological, physical,
and neuropsychological examinations, bloodtests, and possibly some brain imaging.
These tests are important to help rule out a variety of other disorders (e.g.
stroke, depression) that can cause memory and thinking problems in older adults.
All appropriate patients referred to the center participate in the following
four-step assessment process.
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Telephone Interview
Patients and family members interested in receiving an evaluation should
call the center to schedule an appointment. The Center staff will determine
eligibility through a brief telephone interview where they obtain basic
information about the patient.
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Clinical Examinations
Comprehensive neurological, physical, and neuropsychological evaluations
are performed by a team of highly-qualified professionals. These tests
can be performed on either one or two visits, based upon scheduling arrangements.
Special arrangements can be made for patients with limited English language
skills.
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Additional Diagnostic Tests
As necessary, state-of-the-art brain scans, such as Magnetic Resonance
Imaging (MRI) and Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT),
complete blood tests, chest x-ray, and electrocardiogram (EKG), may be
performed to help diagnose treatable causes of memory loss. Arrangements
for these tests can be made either through the clinic staff or the treating
physician.
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Family Conference
Family conferences are scheduled several weeks after the initial visit
once all test results are gathered by the professional team. All interested
family members are encouraged to attend. The diagnosis and treatment recommendations
that may help improve cognitive functioning, slow down the progression
of the disease, and reduce behavioral symptoms (e.g., depression, agitation)
are discussed at the conference. Referrals may also be made to appropriate
community agencies when necessary. A written report, summarizing these
findings and recommendations, is sent to the patient, family, and treating
physicians. |
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