Memory & Dementia
Memory Loss and Dementia Care
Memory concerns deserve a real evaluation, not reassurance alone. The purpose of that evaluation is to determine whether memory has measurably changed, identify the most likely cause, and find anything that can be treated.
A companion resource for families
Looking for dementia information and Illinois resources?
The Illinois Dementia Guide is a comprehensive educational resource for Illinois families navigating memory loss and dementia, including practical dementia information, caregiver guidance, and local resources.
Explore memory and dementia topics
Each page explains the condition or test in plain language — what it is, how it is evaluated, and what treatment involves.
Memory Loss
When forgetfulness deserves a neurological evaluation.
Learn more →Mild Cognitive Impairment
A measurable change in thinking that does not yet limit independence.
Learn more →Alzheimer's Disease
The most common cause of dementia, and how it is diagnosed.
Learn more →Lewy Body Dementia
Cognitive change with movement, sleep, and alertness features.
Learn more →Vascular Dementia
Cognitive change related to blood vessel disease and stroke.
Learn more →Frontotemporal Dementia
Changes in behavior or language, often at a younger age.
Learn more →Dementia Evaluation
What a complete diagnostic evaluation involves.
Learn more →Memory Testing
How thinking and memory are measured objectively.
Learn more →Alzheimer's Biomarkers
Testing that reflects the underlying biology of the disease.
Learn more →Dementia Treatment
Treatment, safety, and long-term support.
Learn more →When to seek a memory evaluation
- Repeating questions or stories within a short period
- Forgetting recent conversations, appointments, or events
- Difficulty managing medications, finances, or appointments
- Getting lost in familiar places
- Word-finding difficulty that is worsening
- Changes in personality, mood, or judgment
- Family members noticing changes the patient does not
What the evaluation includes
- Detailed history, ideally with a family member present
- Neurological examination
- Structured cognitive and memory testing
- Review of every current medication
- Laboratory studies for treatable contributors
- Brain imaging when appropriate
- Biomarker testing when clinically indicated
In-person visits and televisits (telehealth) are both available. Initial memory evaluations generally require an in-person visit so examination and cognitive testing can be performed properly.
Support for families and caregivers
Families carry much of the work of dementia care. Visits include time for the questions that matter day to day: safety at home, driving, medication supervision, managing changes in behavior, planning ahead, and knowing what to expect next.
Request a Neurology Appointment
Text 815-276-7050 with your first name and the word "Memory," 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 a keyword. 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. [Insurance details — placeholder]. 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.