In This Episode:
Dr. K explains what should happen during an initial medical evaluation when an older person develops memory or thinking problems. She covers:
- What is cognitive impairment and why it’s important to get a medical evaluation
- What kind of cognitive changes are considered normal with aging
- 10 common health issues that can affect memory and thinking
- 10 things a health provider should generally do, during an initial evaluation for cognitive impairment
- The key things the initial evaluation should address
- Whether to expect a definitive diagnosis
- What to expect from your health providers
Related episodes:
002 – What to Do If You’re Worried About Someone’s Memory
003 – Interview: Helping Reluctant Parents Address Memory Concerns
Related Resources:
- Cognitive Impairment in Aging: 10 Common Causes & 10 Things the Doctor Should Check
- How We Diagnose Dementia: The Practical Basics to Know
- The IOM Report on Cognitive Aging
- 4 Types of Medication to Avoid if You’re Worried About Memory
- Cerebral Small Vessel Disease: What to Know & What to Do
- 8 Behaviors to Take Note of if You Think Someone Might Have Alzheimer’s
- 10 Things to Know About HIPAA & Access to a Relative’s Health Information
- What are Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) & Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs)?
- Understanding Laboratory Tests: 10 Commonly Used Blood Tests for Older Adults
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