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At one time or another, everyone has memory lapses. We misplace our glasses or forget a person’s name. While these brief lapses can be frustrating, they usually don’t interfere with a person’s daily activities and are not cause for concern.
Progressive memory loss, however, is not a normal, inevitable part of the aging process, and is reason for concern. Memory loss may be so gradual that it goes unnoticed in the beginning. Often family members are the first to sense that something is wrong. This is the time when detection and intervention are most valuable.
There are many causes of memory loss, including depression, dementia (such as Alzheimer’s disease), side effects of drugs, strokes, head injury, alcoholism and others.
Early Diagnosis ImportantMemory-related symptoms need prompt professional medical attention. The earlier the cause for a memory problem is identified, the sooner treatment can begin. Proper diagnosis of the type of dementia or other cause of memory loss requires evaluation by specialists.
Specialized Care TeamThe Memory Disorders Program at Froedtert & The Medical College of Wisconsin provides comprehensive care to patients and families living with dementia or other memory disorders. The program is part of the Neurosciences Center at Froedtert & the Medical College.
An expert multidisciplinary team — Medical College of Wisconsin physicians (neurologists and a geropsychiatrist), neuropsychologists, nurses and a social worker — is experienced in diagnosing and treating all types of memory disorders. Team members are committed to:
- Identifying memory disorders early through a comprehensive diagnostic assessment
- Offering the latest treatments
- Educating patients and their families
- Providing coping skills and counseling for families
- Conducting research to find ways to prevent, better diagnose and treat memory disorders
The team specializes in diagnosing uncommon and difficult-to-diagnose cases of dementia. Team members care for patients throughout their illness and also help family members cope with new challenges.
Patients have access to the latest advances in the prevention, assessment and treatment of memory disorders, including the latest medications.
If you have any questions about our program or would like more information, please Contact Us.
Author: Marla Fraunfelder Last Review Date: Feb. 3, 2008 Online Editor(s): Christopher Sadler |
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