Comprehensive Alzheimer's and Dementia Assessments

Before diagnosing a patient with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia, specialists meet with both the patient and family members to discuss any symptoms, including when symptoms were first noticed. At the initial patient evaluation, medical tests may be ordered, including:

• Brain scans (CT, MRI, or PET).
• Complete medical history.
• Laboratory tests.
• Neurological exam.
• Neuropsychological tests.

After the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias, specialists provide a comprehensive assessment based on patient consultations and test results. Because Alzheimer’s or dementia affects so many parts of the patient’s life, including the family, a multidisciplinary team of specialists works together to provide a care plan. These experts include:

• Neurologists,
• Neuropsychologists,
• Advanced Practice Nurses (dementia specialists),
• Neuropsychometric testers,
• Clinical Trials,
• Social workers.