Memory Disorder Program
We’re home to one of only 17 designated Memory Disorder Clinics in Florida, funded through a grant from the Department of Elder Affairs. As part of the state’s Alzheimer’s Disease Initiative, we provide the highest level of care for patients and families across the Big Bend who are affected by memory disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
Our Services
Our Memory Disorder Team is made up of neurologists, neuropsychologists and social workers to provide a comprehensive treatment approach for our patients. We provide:
- Neurological evaluation
- Neuropsychological testing
- Medication review
- Psychosocial assessment
- Support and education
- Referral to community partners
When to Seek an Evaluation
Memory may change as we get older, but memory loss that disrupts daily life is not a normal part of aging. It is important to seek a diagnostic evaluation if you or someone you know is experiencing:
- Significant word finding difficulty
- Confusion about time or place
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks
- Repeatedly misplacing objects
- Becoming lost in familiar places
- Poor judgement or decision making
How to Schedule an Appointment
To become a new patient of our clinic, you may seek a referral from your primary care physician or complete a self-referral. Once we receive your medical records from your primary care physician, we will reach out to you to schedule an appointment. Please note: Some insurance policies may require a physician’s referral to cover the cost of the evaluation. Our staff will verify your insurance coverage prior to your appointment.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
At your first visit, your neurologist will review your medical records and discuss the symptoms and changes you or your family have noticed. They will conduct a comprehensive medical assessment, including a cognitive evaluation. Your physician will then recommend additional testing if necessary and formulate an individualized plan of care with you and your family. Your social work team will meet with you after to conduct a brief psychosocial assessment and discuss community resources.
For more information about our services, please call us at 850-431-5001.
Need Assistance?
Our social work team is available for all community members – not just patients of our clinic. If you have been diagnosed with a memory disorder or you’re caring for a loved one who has, we can help. Our team can assist patients and families with disease and care related questions as well as provide guidance through difficult decisions by providing resources, information and support. We can:
- Help arrange in-home services or facility placement
- Provide information about respite options
- Facilitate conversations about when to stop driving
- Provide emotional support after a diagnosis and answer questions about what comes next
- Provide a list of activities in the community
- Provide information about lifestyle (socialization, physical activity, healthy diet, etc.)
- And more
Reach our social work team at 850-431-5001 option 7.
