069 – Evaluating Memory & Thinking Problems:
10 Causes & 10 Things to Check

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