Patient Resources
What happens during a dementia evaluation?
Short answer
A dementia evaluation combines a detailed history, a neurological examination, cognitive testing, laboratory studies, and brain imaging when appropriate. The goal is to determine whether cognition has measurably changed, identify the most likely cause, and find anything that can be treated.
Understanding this
The history is the most important part of the visit. Bringing a family member who has observed the changes often provides information that testing alone cannot.
Cognitive testing measures memory, attention, language, visual-spatial ability, and executive function. The pattern of results — rather than a single score — helps point toward a cause.
Laboratory studies and a medication review look for contributing conditions. Imaging may be used to look for strokes, small vessel disease, or patterns of volume loss.
Symptoms and signs
- Memory change noticed by the patient or family
- Word-finding difficulty
- Changes in judgment, planning, or organization
- Personality or behavior change
- Difficulty with familiar routines
How it is evaluated
- History with input from family when possible
- Review of medications, sleep, mood, and medical conditions
- Neurological examination
- Cognitive and memory testing
- Laboratory studies
- MRI or CT when appropriate
- Additional or biomarker testing when clinically indicated
When to seek care
- Seek emergency care for sudden confusion or a change in alertness.
- Schedule an evaluation when cognitive change is progressive or affects daily function.
Emergency symptoms
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.