When should you get memory changes checked?
Sir Patrick Stewart was known to many as Captain Picard in Star Trek and Professor X in X-Men. After his death, his family shared that he had been living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia with Lewy bodies.
When you notice changes in your own memory or in someone close to you, it can be hard to know when to ask for help. Here’s when to speak to a GP and what to expect from a memory assessment.
When should you speak to a GP?
Perhaps someone close to you is asking the same question several times, losing track of conversations or finding familiar tasks harder. If you’re worried about changes like these in yourself or someone else, speak to a GP.
Before the appointment, write down what has changed, when you first noticed it and how it affects everyday life.
Memory problems can have several causes, including depression, thyroid problems and side effects from medicines. A GP can look for possible causes and advise whether a specialist assessment would help.
If someone suddenly becomes confused, call 999 or go to A&E.
What is dementia with Lewy bodies?
Dementia describes a group of symptoms that can affect memory, thinking and everyday life. Alzheimer’s disease and dementia with Lewy bodies are two different causes of dementia.
Dementia with Lewy bodies can affect how alert someone feels, how they move and how they sleep. Some people see things that aren’t there. Symptoms vary from person to person.
What happens at a memory assessment at Midland Health?
Your assessment starts with a GP appointment. We’ll talk through the changes you’ve noticed, how they affect daily life and any medicines you take. The appointment includes a short assessment of your memory and thinking, as well as blood tests and an ECG. We’ll also arrange a brain MRI, which is included in the package.
You’ll then meet Dr Nibha Gupta, our Consultant in Old Age Psychiatry. She’ll review your results, carry out a more detailed assessment and talk you through her findings and any recommended next steps. You’ll receive a written report that you can share with your NHS GP.
Speak to our memory assessment team
If you’re considering an assessment for yourself or someone close to you, our team can explain what the pathway includes and answer your questions.
To find out what the pathway involves, explore private memory assessments in Birmingham or call 0121 769 0999.
