Memory Loss

What is Memory Loss?

Memory loss occurs as cells in the brain and nervous system lose their ability to function properly and eventually die.

The problem is seen in several serious conditions that affect older adults, including:

Dementia
Cognitive dysfunction
Alzheimer’s disease

UR Medicine's Treatments for Memory Loss

Our providers help patients and their families deal with the many dimensions of the disease and phases of treatment. Patients are seen by a physician or nurse practitioner specializing in memory evaluation and will undergo a thorough review of medical history and symptoms.

Laboratory tests and special studies are sometimes needed. These might include brain imaging or neuropsychological testing.

Our medical team explains the diagnosis to patients and suggest ways for the family to deal with any difficulties that may arise. The clinic will send a report of the examination results to the patient’s primary care doctor and a family member, if desired.

We also provide:

Ongoing medication management and help with challenging behaviors
Treatment recommendations
Information, education, and support for care partners
Referrals for community resources
Opportunities to participate in research studies

Video: Physicians with the Memory Care Program discuss how their "multidisciplinary approach" improves care and support for patients with memory disorders and their families.

Video: Dr. Fred Marshall with the Memory Care Program discusses how his personal experience with memory disorders impacts his approach to care.

What Sets Us Apart?

Our team approach is designed to ensure you and your family get all the help you need. Our experts include physicians who are fellowship-trained, the highest level of academic specialization in their field.

The Memory Care Program consists of a team of neurologists, geriatric psychiatrists, a geriatrician, a neuropsychologist, a family and marriage therapist, and social workers.

Members of the Memory Care Program are nationally known as principal investigators in multi-center randomized clinical trials and studies funded by the National Institutes of Health. They have published hundreds of journal articles and book chapters and are leaders of select medical societies in their field.