Evaluation for Dementia
Dementia and the loss of cognitive function can be a frightening part of the aging process for many. Memories can disappear, daily tasks become more difficult, and patients and their caregivers can often feel a sense of hopelessness about how to handle these life changes.
A neuropsychological evaluation is one of the first steps to determining a patient’s diagnosis and learning how to navigate this new chapter in their life.
What is Dementia?
Dementia is an umbrella diagnosis used to describe the impairment of an individual’s memory and cognitive function. Many factors can contribute to the development of dementia including age, previous health conditions, family medical history, and traumatic brain injuries.
There are several recognized types of dementia, some of the most common include:
Alzheimer’s Disease
Believed to be caused by a buildup of plaques and tau tangles within the brain, commonly found in the memory centers of the brain.
Lewy Body Dementia
Abnormal protein deposits in the brain called Lewy Bodies commonly cause increased difficulty with cognitive tasks, movements, and sleep.
Vascular Dementia
Vascular disease or injury to the brain can lead to memory loss and cognitive decline.
Frontotemporal Dementia
Atrophy or shrinking of the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain leading to behavioral changes.
For more information on the types of dementia visit https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/topics/dementia
Dementia Brain Scan Study
Neural Effects is currently looking for individuals who have been diagnosed with dementia to participate in an fMRI research study. If you are interested in participating please call Neural Effects at 801-616-3675 to pre-enroll.
