Comprehensive Memory and Wellness Evaluation
How Do I Know If I Need a Memory Evaluation?
Many people wonder whether changes in memory and thinking are a normal part of aging or a sign of something more serious. If you or someone you care about is experiencing memory loss, cognitive decline, or changes in thinking and daily functioning , a comprehensive memory evaluation can help identify the cause and determine appropriate next steps.
A memory assessment may be recommended when changes begin to interfere with everyday life. Signs that may warrant a cognitive evaluation or memory testing include:
- Memory changes that disrupt daily life, such as frequently repeating questions or conversations
- Challenges with planning or solving problems, such as difficulty keeping track of monthly bills
- Confusion about time or place, such as frequently missing appointments
- Increased difficulty finding or keeping track of belongings
- Difficulty speaking or participating in conversations, including frequently losing train of thought
- Withdrawal from social activities or previously enjoyed activities
- Poor judgment or difficulty making decisions, particularly when managing money
- Difficulties with driving
- Increased depression, anxiety, or other changes in mood
If you or someone you care about is experiencing memory changes or concerns about cognitive function , we recommend speaking with your primary care provider and contacting the Memory and Wellness Center to learn whether a comprehensive memory evaluation may be appropriate.
What Can a Memory Evaluation Tell You?
When changes in memory or thinking are greater than what would typically be expected for a person’s age, a comprehensive memory evaluation can help identify the nature and potential causes of those changes.
There are many possible causes of memory loss and cognitive decline , including vascular disease, sleep apnea, depression, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, medication effects, and other medical or neurological conditions. A thorough cognitive assessment can help clarify the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment and support.
An early and accurate dementia diagnosis or Alzheimer’s diagnosis , when applicable, can be an important first step toward appropriate treatment, care planning, and support. A comprehensive evaluation can also help identify conditions that may be treatable and provide individuals and their families with a better understanding of cognitive strengths and areas of concern.
The goal is to support each individual’s highest level of functioning and quality of life while providing families and care partners with information and recommendations for the future.
Comprehensive Memory and Cognitive Evaluation
Comprehensive memory and wellness evaluations are conducted by an interprofessional team of geriatric specialists in consultation with the patient’s personal physician and other healthcare providers. The evaluation addresses the nature, extent, and potential causes of memory and cognitive concerns .
Depending on the individual’s symptoms and medical history, the evaluation may help determine whether changes are associated with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), dementia, Alzheimer’s disease , or another medical, neurological, psychological, or cognitive condition.
The comprehensive evaluation may include:
- Memory testing and memory assessment
- Cognitive testing and cognitive evaluation
- Evaluation of emotional and psychological factors
- Review of medical history and medications
- Neuropsychological testing
- Neuropsychological evaluation
- Review of laboratory testing and neuro-imaging, when appropriate
- Recommendations for treatment, follow-up, and additional evaluation
Individuals can self-refer for an evaluation. Family members and physicians, or other healthcare providers may also make referrals.
What to Expect During a Memory Evaluation
The comprehensive memory evaluation typically occurs over three appointments scheduled within a two- to three-week period .
- Initial Memory and Medical Assessment
The first appointment is with a Geriatric Nurse Practitioner and includes an extensive, memory-focused medical history and physical assessment.
During this visit, the team will:
- Review current medications and supplements
- Screen for emotional and psychological factors that may affect memory
- Assess cognitive function, including memory
- Complete a psychosocial evaluation
- Discuss concerns about memory, thinking, and daily functioning
Family members and care partners also have an opportunity to meet with a member of the social work team to discuss their concerns and questions.
The Nurse Practitioner will work with the patient’s existing healthcare team to obtain necessary laboratory testing and neuro-imaging studies. When medically appropriate, the patient will be referred to a Neuropsychologist for further evaluation and neuropsychological testing .
- Neuropsychological and Cognitive Testing
The second appointment is with a Neuropsychologist for in-depth cognitive, memory, and psychological testing.
This neuropsychological evaluation provides a detailed assessment of cognitive strengths and areas of difficulty. The results can help clarify the nature of cognitive changes and assist the healthcare team in determining an appropriate diagnosis and recommendations.
- Results and Feedback Appointment
The third appointment is a feedback meeting with the patient and, when appropriate, family members, care partners, and/or significant others.
During this appointment, the team reviews the evaluation results, discusses recommendations, and answers questions. Evaluation reports are then provided to the patient’s treating physician or other healthcare providers.
Patients and their families are encouraged to schedule an appointment with their primary care provider to review the results and recommendations. A neurological evaluation is also strongly recommended before or after completing the Memory and Wellness Center evaluation process.
What Should I Bring to My Memory Evaluation?
Please bring:
- A current list of all medications and supplements
- Reading glasses, if applicable
- Hearing aids, if applicable
- A family member or care partner, when possible
Having someone who knows you well accompany you can be helpful, as they may be able to provide additional information about changes in memory, thinking, mood, or daily functioning.
Insurance Coverage for Memory Evaluation
The comprehensive memory evaluation is covered by Medicare and secondary insurance plans . Patients are responsible for applicable deductibles and co-payments. Individuals who do not have Medicare should contact their insurance provider to determine whether their plan covers memory testing, cognitive testing, neuropsychological testing, and related services.
Financial assistance may be available for individuals who qualify.