Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer's Disease Evaluation and Care
Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia. It usually begins with difficulty forming new memories and progresses gradually over years. Diagnosis rests on the clinical pattern, examination and cognitive testing, supported by imaging and — in selected patients — biomarker testing.
Early features that are commonly reported
- Difficulty remembering recent conversations and events
- Repeating questions
- Misplacing items and difficulty retracing steps
- Trouble with appointments, medications or finances
- Word-finding difficulty
- Reduced initiative or withdrawal from usual activities
How the diagnosis is made
- History from the patient and a knowledgeable family member
- Neurological examination
- Cognitive testing, with neuropsychological testing when the picture is unclear
- Laboratory studies to exclude other contributors
- MRI or CT of the brain
- Biomarker testing when it will meaningfully change management
Treatment approach
Treatment is individualized and does not promise reversal of the disease. Depending on stage, other medical conditions and patient goals, options may include symptomatic medications, discussion of newer disease-modifying therapies and their eligibility and monitoring requirements, treatment of sleep and mood, and reduction of medications that worsen cognition.
Equally important is planning: safety, driving, supervision needs, advance planning conversations and caregiver support.
Lifestyle measures alongside medical treatment
- Blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes management
- Regular aerobic activity and strength training as tolerated
- Treatment of sleep apnea and attention to sleep quality
- Hearing evaluation and correction
- Mediterranean- or MIND-style dietary pattern
- Continued social and cognitive engagement
Frequently asked questions
- Can Alzheimer's disease be diagnosed by a neurologist?
- Yes. Diagnosis is clinical, supported by cognitive testing, laboratory studies and imaging, with biomarker testing in selected patients.
- Do the newer treatments work for everyone?
- No. Disease-modifying therapies have specific eligibility criteria, require biomarker confirmation and monitoring, and carry risks. Whether they are appropriate is an individual decision.
- Does a normal MRI rule out Alzheimer's disease?
- No. Imaging is used to look for other causes and supportive findings; a structurally unremarkable scan does not exclude the diagnosis.
Request a Neurology Appointment
Text 815-276-7050 with your first name and the word "appointment," or call 815-337-7100 to schedule. Our office will follow up to confirm your evaluation.
In-person visits and televisits (telehealth) are both available.
What happens after you text
Text 815-276-7050 with your first name and the word "appointment." Our office calls you back to schedule — you do not need to fill out a form.
When you'll hear back
Texts and calls received during office hours are typically returned the same business day. You can also call 815-337-7100 directly.
Insurance and referrals
Insurance participation and referral requirements vary by plan. Our office will confirm what your plan requires before your visit.
Please do not send urgent or emergency medical information by text. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek emergency medical attention. Please avoid sending sensitive medical information by ordinary SMS unless instructed otherwise.