Your Memory Clinic Guide: What to Expect and How to Get Support
Memory concerns can be worrying, not just for those experiencing them, but also for their loved ones. At Trinity Homecare, we understand how important it is to address these concerns early and with the right support.
Whether you’re noticing early signs of memory changes or seeking guidance for a loved one, we’re here to help you navigate the memory clinic journey with clarity and confidence.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect during a memory clinic visit, what the diagnosis process involves and the ongoing support that’s available.
What can I do while I wait for a memory clinic appointment?
While waiting for your memory clinic appointment, there are several proactive steps you can take to support your well-being. Waiting times can vary depending on your location, and many people feel nervous as they wait. Consider these suggestions as you wait for your appointment:
- Keep a journal: Regularly note any changes in your memory or thinking patterns. This record can be very useful for your healthcare team during your appointment.
- Prioritise hearing and vision: Unaddressed issues with hearing or vision can sometimes worsen cognitive difficulties. Make sure to have your hearing and sight checked and follow through with any recommendations, whether that means using glasses or hearing aids or even considering surgery if advised.
- Stay organised: Use calendars, lists or digital reminders to manage daily tasks, appointments and routines. Simple reminders, like a sticky note by the door, can help ensure you don’t forget your essentials.
- Prepare your questions: Write down any questions or concerns you’d like to discuss with the memory clinic team. Being prepared can help you get the most out of your appointment.
Your memory clinic appointment
When you attend a memory clinic appointment, you might be given the option of a telephone consultation or an in-person visit. While phone appointments offer convenience, in-person visits might provide a more detailed assessment—though they can sometimes involve a longer wait.
During your appointment, you may meet with several specialists depending on your needs, location and symptoms. This could include;
- A specialist in mental health and dementia
- A geriatrician focused on the care of older people
- A neurologist
- A mental health nurse, psychologist or occupational therapist
The varied perspectives of these healthcare professionals help ensure that every aspect of your memory and overall well-being is carefully considered.
Typically, your appointment will last around 90 minutes, though it may extend a bit longer to cover all necessary assessments and tests. These thorough evaluations are designed to determine whether you’re experiencing memory challenges, and if so, to identify what type you might have.
It’s highly recommended that you bring along someone you trust—a friend or family member who knows you well. Their support can be invaluable, providing extra insights and helping to make the process more comfortable and reassuring.
What happens during the appointment?
Baseline valuation
Your visit to a memory clinic starts with a baseline evaluation designed to assess the current state of your memory. This initial test isn’t about scoring well—it’s simply a tool to help the specialists understand your unique situation.
Initial consultation
In the first consultation, you’ll have a relaxed discussion where your concerns, medical history, lifestyle and personal experiences are explored. This conversation helps the team build a full picture of what you’re experiencing and lays the groundwork for further assessments.
Memory assessment
Next, you may meet with a neuropsychologist, often accompanied by a trusted family member or friend. This session, commonly known as the memory clinic test, focuses on evaluating your cognitive function, particularly short-term memory and recall. The test helps pinpoint areas of the brain, such as the frontal lobe (responsible for planning and problem-solving) and the temporal lobe (crucial for memory), that might be underperforming.
Typically, the neuropsychologist will begin with a general screening. This comprehensive test looks at attention, orientation, language, visual perception and spatial skills, making it invaluable for detecting cognitive impairments including Alzheimer’s and frontotemporal dementia. The full assessment may take up to two hours, after which your performance will be compared with national averages to highlight any concerns.
Brain Imaging: CT or MRI Scans
To gain further insight, the clinic may organise a brain scan, such as an MRI or CT scan. An MRI provides detailed images of the brain’s structure and blood supply, revealing potential issues like swelling or tumours. A CT scan, which uses X-rays, can help rule out other causes of memory problems, such as head injuries or stroke-related damage.
While the idea of a scan might seem daunting, both MRI and CT scans are entirely painless. If you’re feeling anxious about undergoing these tests, don’t hesitate to share your concerns with your healthcare provider—they can often offer reassurance or additional support to ease your experience.
Receiving a dementia diagnosis
Sometimes, the results from memory tests and brain scans confirm a diagnosis of dementia. Although this news can be difficult to process, it is also an important step towards understanding what you or your loved one is experiencing. By identifying the specific type of dementia—such as Alzheimer’s, vascular dementia or another form—healthcare professionals can tailor the care and support provided.
Getting a diagnosis enables your care team to develop a personalised plan. This means you will receive the appropriate support and treatment at the right time. Your GP will be informed and will collaborate with specialists to ensure that all aspects of care, from medication to support services, are in place. Regular follow-up appointments will help track the condition’s progression, and the memory clinic staff are always available to address any concerns you might have.
While receiving a dementia diagnosis is undoubtedly challenging, it also paves the way for accessing the right resources and guidance. With a clear diagnosis, you can take confident steps towards managing the condition and ensuring that your loved one receives compassionate care throughout their journey.
Dementia care at home
At Trinity Homecare, we understand that a dementia diagnosis can be overwhelming. We offer ‘Outstanding’ rated dementia care in the comfort of your own home. Studies show that 85% of people prefer to stay in their familiar surroundings, and we’re committed to making that possible.
With professional care tailored to your loved one’s needs, we help them enjoy a happy and fulfilling life while staying at home. For more details on how Trinity Homecare can support you, explore our live-in dementia care guide and discover the compassionate care your family deserves.
Talk to us today
At Trinity Homecare, our ultimate goal is to enrich your lifestyle in the comfort and familiarity of your own home. This allows you to live the independent lifestyle that you love without the daunting thought of moving into a care home.
Call us now on 0207 183 4884 in confidence for a free no obligation quotation. If enquiring outside of our opening hours, please complete our online form and we will contact you the next day.
