What is a memory clinic?

A memory clinic is a specialty clinic where a team of specialists works together to find out what is causing memory or thinking problems. The National Institute on Aging says these clinics and centers, including Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers, often have the equipment for brain scans and other advanced tests. Teams may include neurologists, geriatricians, geriatric psychiatrists and neuropsychologists.

Expect questions, tests and possibly scans. The National Institute on Aging says doctors ask the person and a family member about health, medicines, diet, daily activities and changes in behavior. They test memory, problem solving, attention, counting and language, order blood and urine tests, and may do brain scans such as CT, MRI or PET, or a spinal tap.

Besides Alzheimer's and other dementias, a memory clinic can identify other causes of memory problems. The National Institute on Aging lists stroke, tumor, Parkinson's disease, sleep disturbances, medication side effects, infections, and depression or other mental health conditions. Some of these may be treatable and possibly reversible, which is one reason an evaluation is worth having.

Start with a primary care doctor, who can refer you to a specialist or memory clinic. The National Institute on Aging also funds Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers at major medical and academic institutions across the United States, and publishes a directory listing each center by state with its website and phone number. These centers work on improving diagnosis and care.

An early, accurate diagnosis opens doors. The National Institute on Aging says it lets families plan for the future, handle financial and legal matters, address safety, consider living arrangements and build support. Most current Alzheimer's medicines work most effectively in the early or middle stages, and diagnosis can open access to clinical trials. People with memory problems should return every six to 12 months.