Dementia Therapists in South San Francisco, CA

Photo of Jeffrey Young - Open Mind Health , Marriage & Family Therapist
Open Mind Health
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South San Francisco, CA 94080  (Online Only)
Emotional challenges and mental illness do not discriminate. No matter your race, orientation, gender, or religion, you matter. Open Mind Health offers a diverse group of providers who specialize in helping others find relief from a full spectrum of challenges. We offer 21 customized Wellness Tracks that address core symptoms, core life domains, & diverse populations to get the roots of emotional challenges – no one-size fits all or band aid approaches. We assess and advance your Personal Evolution so that you can become your best self. 96% of our clients rate their experience with Open Mind Health as Excellent or Very Good.
Emotional challenges and mental illness do not discriminate. No matter your race, orientation, gender, or religion, you matter. Open Mind Health offers a diverse group of providers who specialize in helping others find relief from a full spectrum of challenges. We offer 21 customized Wellness Tracks that address core symptoms, core life domains, & diverse populations to get the roots of emotional challenges – no one-size fits all or band aid approaches. We assess and advance your Personal Evolution so that you can become your best self. 96% of our clients rate their experience with Open Mind Health as Excellent or Very Good.
(619) 279-5464 View (619) 279-5464
Photo of Darla Wolgast Romano, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Darla Wolgast Romano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080
Not accepting new clients
Do you feel tired of old patterns that inhibit your fun and connection in life? Would you like to have tools to cope with your anxieties and stresses and make the changes you desire? I have over 35 years experience in helping individuals bring attention to their issues to gain insight and acceptance--allowing for change and growth. My first session with individuals/couples will help you clarify your needs and create goals for our work. With couples, I will help you each take responsibility for your own issues; supporting better communication, more enjoyment and greater connectedness in your partnership.
Do you feel tired of old patterns that inhibit your fun and connection in life? Would you like to have tools to cope with your anxieties and stresses and make the changes you desire? I have over 35 years experience in helping individuals bring attention to their issues to gain insight and acceptance--allowing for change and growth. My first session with individuals/couples will help you clarify your needs and create goals for our work. With couples, I will help you each take responsibility for your own issues; supporting better communication, more enjoyment and greater connectedness in your partnership.
(415) 390-2275 View (415) 390-2275
Photo of Heather L Bornfeld, PhD, Psychologist
Heather L Bornfeld
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
South San Francisco, CA 94080
Not accepting new clients
In therapy, establishing a strong rapport and a collaborative relationship with you is central to my approach, because it is ultimately you who holds the essential knowledge of Self. Individuals and problems are unique; sometimes solution oriented approaches are warranted, and other times insight and exploration help to provide clarification and relief. With support, compassion, and curiosity, you can begin to expand a self-awareness that will help you live authentically.
In therapy, establishing a strong rapport and a collaborative relationship with you is central to my approach, because it is ultimately you who holds the essential knowledge of Self. Individuals and problems are unique; sometimes solution oriented approaches are warranted, and other times insight and exploration help to provide clarification and relief. With support, compassion, and curiosity, you can begin to expand a self-awareness that will help you live authentically.
(415) 800-4552 View (415) 800-4552

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Michael Debellis, PsyD, ABN, FACPN, Psychologist
Michael Debellis
Psychologist, PsyD, ABN, FACPN
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
Dr. DeBellis is a licensed clinical psychologist who is board certified in neuropsychology. He completed his internship at UC Davis Medical Center. He trains students at U.C. Davis Medical Center, Sonoma State University and the Wright Institute. He is also the educational chair for Sutter Mills Peninsula Department of Psychiatry. He specializes in treatment of patients with traumatic brain injury, dementia, stroke and other acquired brain injury. His focus is on the relationship between brain changes and cognitive and emotional functioning.
Dr. DeBellis is a licensed clinical psychologist who is board certified in neuropsychology. He completed his internship at UC Davis Medical Center. He trains students at U.C. Davis Medical Center, Sonoma State University and the Wright Institute. He is also the educational chair for Sutter Mills Peninsula Department of Psychiatry. He specializes in treatment of patients with traumatic brain injury, dementia, stroke and other acquired brain injury. His focus is on the relationship between brain changes and cognitive and emotional functioning.
(650) 597-7151 View (650) 597-7151
Photo of Tom Kiely, PhD, Psychologist
Tom Kiely
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
**PLEASE NOTE: Dr. Kiely's practice is currently full, and is unable to accommodate new therapy referrals at this time.** Regarding neuropsychology, my expertise covers a wide range of neurological, medical and psychiatric conditions including traumatic brain injury, neurodegenerative disease and dementia, stroke, epilepsy, PTSD, and ADHD. I have advanced clinical training in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient psychiatry, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, and memory centers. Currently, I am an attending clinical neuropsychologist at UCSF, within the Memory and Aging Center, Department of Neurology.
**PLEASE NOTE: Dr. Kiely's practice is currently full, and is unable to accommodate new therapy referrals at this time.** Regarding neuropsychology, my expertise covers a wide range of neurological, medical and psychiatric conditions including traumatic brain injury, neurodegenerative disease and dementia, stroke, epilepsy, PTSD, and ADHD. I have advanced clinical training in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient psychiatry, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury, and memory centers. Currently, I am an attending clinical neuropsychologist at UCSF, within the Memory and Aging Center, Department of Neurology.
(415) 938-4954 View (415) 938-4954
Photo of Rachael A. Henderson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachael A. Henderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
I began my master's training in 2014, and I have worked with individuals and their families struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, cancer, Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and seizure disorders.
I began my master's training in 2014, and I have worked with individuals and their families struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, cancer, Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and seizure disorders.
(415) 539-2643 View (415) 539-2643
Sanam Lalani Neuropsychologist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94101
Neuropsychological evaluations can be helpful at any age. If you are struggling with your thinking abilities (attention, memory, or executive functioning), you may benefit from diagnostic clarity (is it ADHD? do I have dementia?). Testing can identify a pattern of cognitive strengths and weaknesses and help guide in treatment planning.
Neuropsychological evaluations can be helpful at any age. If you are struggling with your thinking abilities (attention, memory, or executive functioning), you may benefit from diagnostic clarity (is it ADHD? do I have dementia?). Testing can identify a pattern of cognitive strengths and weaknesses and help guide in treatment planning.
(972) 521-7918 View (972) 521-7918
Photo of Dr. Kelsey Anne Holiday - Dr. Holiday Healing Psychology, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Holiday Healing Psychology
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94101
I am passionate about helping clients understand their cognitive changes and cope after a diagnosis such as Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, stroke/aphasia, traumatic brain injury (TBI), cancer/chemotherapy, and other forms of dementia.
Have you and your partner been frustrated by having the same argument over and over again? Are you struggling to cope with anxiety, life transitions, or stress in your daily life? Do you get triggered by things in your environment that remind you of a stressful past event? If this sounds like you, then you have come to the right place. My approach to therapy is warm, compassionate, and nonjudgemental. I strive to help clients utilize their strengths and improve their coping using evidence-based practices.
I am passionate about helping clients understand their cognitive changes and cope after a diagnosis such as Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, stroke/aphasia, traumatic brain injury (TBI), cancer/chemotherapy, and other forms of dementia.
Have you and your partner been frustrated by having the same argument over and over again? Are you struggling to cope with anxiety, life transitions, or stress in your daily life? Do you get triggered by things in your environment that remind you of a stressful past event? If this sounds like you, then you have come to the right place. My approach to therapy is warm, compassionate, and nonjudgemental. I strive to help clients utilize their strengths and improve their coping using evidence-based practices.
(310) 919-1598 View (310) 919-1598
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth S Sutherland - Geropsychologist, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Elizabeth S Sutherland - Geropsychologist
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94121
I am a Geropsychologist which means I specialize with older adults. I provide forensic neuropsychological evaluations to assist with decision making capacity for the following domains: medical/financial consent, sexual consent, testamentary consent, driving, independent living. Evaluations/therapy also assist with diagnoses for dementia, depression, anxiety, and/or grief/loss. I work with family members/caregivers caring for those with dementia and perhaps behavioral challenges associated with the dementia. I currently work at the San Francisco VA Health Care System (SFVAHCS) for the Department of Geropsychiatry since 2007.
I am a Geropsychologist which means I specialize with older adults. I provide forensic neuropsychological evaluations to assist with decision making capacity for the following domains: medical/financial consent, sexual consent, testamentary consent, driving, independent living. Evaluations/therapy also assist with diagnoses for dementia, depression, anxiety, and/or grief/loss. I work with family members/caregivers caring for those with dementia and perhaps behavioral challenges associated with the dementia. I currently work at the San Francisco VA Health Care System (SFVAHCS) for the Department of Geropsychiatry since 2007.
(415) 813-1411 View (415) 813-1411
Photo of Maxwell Sleep-Frankel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maxwell Sleep-Frankel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
I primarily have worked with older adults and adults with disabilities, who are navigating the many losses that can be challenging during this time period including retirement, bereavement of family/friends, loss of physical and cognitive functioning, and change of residence to name a few.
My name is Max Sleep-Frankel, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); I am also certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Grief Informed Professional (CGP). I have extensive experience working with older adults and adults with disabilities as they navigate the many life transitions that beset them during this time period. My approach to therapy is to serve as a guide to accomplishing your personal goals and living a more enriched life.
I primarily have worked with older adults and adults with disabilities, who are navigating the many losses that can be challenging during this time period including retirement, bereavement of family/friends, loss of physical and cognitive functioning, and change of residence to name a few.
My name is Max Sleep-Frankel, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW); I am also certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Grief Informed Professional (CGP). I have extensive experience working with older adults and adults with disabilities as they navigate the many life transitions that beset them during this time period. My approach to therapy is to serve as a guide to accomplishing your personal goals and living a more enriched life.
(805) 510-7694 View (805) 510-7694
Photo of Alice Hua, PhD, Psychologist
Alice Hua
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Daly City, CA 94014  (Online Only)
I work with clients to acknowledge their strengths, address impacts of culture and oppressive systems on mental health, and build skills rooted in their goals and values. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, perfectionism, burnout, life transitions, depression, grief, insomnia, and trauma. I also work with individuals adjusting to neurocognitive symptoms and family members of loved ones with dementia. Amidst life's toughest moments, finding clarity, connection, and joy is still possible.
I work with clients to acknowledge their strengths, address impacts of culture and oppressive systems on mental health, and build skills rooted in their goals and values. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, perfectionism, burnout, life transitions, depression, grief, insomnia, and trauma. I also work with individuals adjusting to neurocognitive symptoms and family members of loved ones with dementia. Amidst life's toughest moments, finding clarity, connection, and joy is still possible.
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Photo of Jenny Vladimirov, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenny Vladimirov
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
I am currently serving older adults at my private ADA compliant practice in Burlingame near to public transportation where I provide in-person and remote psychotherapy and care consultations to individuals, couples, and families in an empathetic, non-judgmental, and culturally sensitive way.
As we age, our well-being is impacted by various life transitions such as retirement, physical health issues, relocation, and loss of loved ones. I provide assistance in navigating this new territory with a focus on building resilience, supporting personal agency, developing coping skills, and increasing mindfulness. During psychotherapy sessions and care consultations, I offer guidance in the following areas: mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, sleep disorders, grief and loss, living with illness, disability, and chronic pain, planning for retirement and aging, caregiving and care-receiving.
I am currently serving older adults at my private ADA compliant practice in Burlingame near to public transportation where I provide in-person and remote psychotherapy and care consultations to individuals, couples, and families in an empathetic, non-judgmental, and culturally sensitive way.
As we age, our well-being is impacted by various life transitions such as retirement, physical health issues, relocation, and loss of loved ones. I provide assistance in navigating this new territory with a focus on building resilience, supporting personal agency, developing coping skills, and increasing mindfulness. During psychotherapy sessions and care consultations, I offer guidance in the following areas: mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, sleep disorders, grief and loss, living with illness, disability, and chronic pain, planning for retirement and aging, caregiving and care-receiving.
(650) 610-1842 View (650) 610-1842
Photo of Annie Brashem, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annie Brashem
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94143
cancer, stroke, ALS, Parkinsons, dementia, MS, MD, heart or lung disease, injury) as well as with loved ones.
As either a patient or caregiver, coping with illness, injury, disability, or medical trauma can be quite the challenge. It forever affects how we view ourselves, our bodies, our relationships, and how our lives were “supposed” to go. These experiences are also impacted by everything else we have been through in our lives. Each of us will inevitably experience being a care-giver or a care-recipient, and specialized therapeutic support can help you navigate the specific difficulties that illness or any health issues present. At any age, stage, or severity of illness or injury, cultivating resilience is possible. You aren't alone.
cancer, stroke, ALS, Parkinsons, dementia, MS, MD, heart or lung disease, injury) as well as with loved ones.
As either a patient or caregiver, coping with illness, injury, disability, or medical trauma can be quite the challenge. It forever affects how we view ourselves, our bodies, our relationships, and how our lives were “supposed” to go. These experiences are also impacted by everything else we have been through in our lives. Each of us will inevitably experience being a care-giver or a care-recipient, and specialized therapeutic support can help you navigate the specific difficulties that illness or any health issues present. At any age, stage, or severity of illness or injury, cultivating resilience is possible. You aren't alone.
(510) 330-1142 View (510) 330-1142
Photo of Marianne Hunt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marianne Hunt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
Services include dementia education, benefits guidance, caregiver support, advance planning, reducing conflict, managing challenging behaviors.
You don't have to face dementia alone! I've helped thousands of patients and families navigate dementia, and I look forward to being your guide! You'll need support to navigate the dementia journey; practical support to create a care plan and emotional support to stay in balance along the way. I work with dementia patients and their caregivers as a one stop source for all things dementia.
Services include dementia education, benefits guidance, caregiver support, advance planning, reducing conflict, managing challenging behaviors.
You don't have to face dementia alone! I've helped thousands of patients and families navigate dementia, and I look forward to being your guide! You'll need support to navigate the dementia journey; practical support to create a care plan and emotional support to stay in balance along the way. I work with dementia patients and their caregivers as a one stop source for all things dementia.
(424) 622-9350 View (424) 622-9350
Photo of Christopher Nuñez, PhD, Psychologist
Christopher Nuñez
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94101  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist with over 20 years of experience in assessment and treatment of individuals across the lifespan (children, adolescents, adults, and older adults) diagnosed with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorders. I also work with clients who have neurocognitive and/or other medical conditions, emphasizing cognitive rehabilitation and behavioral medicine strategies to promote and improve overall health and quality of life (e.g. treatment for insomnia, stress management, behavioral changes to improve health, and adjustment to medical diagnosis).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist with over 20 years of experience in assessment and treatment of individuals across the lifespan (children, adolescents, adults, and older adults) diagnosed with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorders. I also work with clients who have neurocognitive and/or other medical conditions, emphasizing cognitive rehabilitation and behavioral medicine strategies to promote and improve overall health and quality of life (e.g. treatment for insomnia, stress management, behavioral changes to improve health, and adjustment to medical diagnosis).
(424) 523-8984 View (424) 523-8984
Photo of Jessica Foley - Jessica Foley, Neuropsychology SF, PhD, ABPP-CN, Psychologist
Jessica Foley, Neuropsychology SF
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP-CN
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
I provide neuropsychological evaluation (ages 14+), to determine causes of real-life struggles, via assessment of attention, processing speed, memory, language, spatial, executive, mood and personality functions.
Dr. Jessica Foley is a board certified clinical neuropsychologist/diplomat of the American Academy of Neuropsychology, and licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California with approx. 20 years of experience conducting neuropsychological evaluation across the lifespan. She has many years of experience in conducting such evaluations in the context of neurologic (e.g., TBI, epilepsy, brain tumor, MS, movement disorders, neurodegenerative), neurodevelopmental (ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Specific Learning Disability) and psychiatric factors interfering with academic, occupational, and other aspects of everyday functioning.
I provide neuropsychological evaluation (ages 14+), to determine causes of real-life struggles, via assessment of attention, processing speed, memory, language, spatial, executive, mood and personality functions.
Dr. Jessica Foley is a board certified clinical neuropsychologist/diplomat of the American Academy of Neuropsychology, and licensed clinical psychologist in the state of California with approx. 20 years of experience conducting neuropsychological evaluation across the lifespan. She has many years of experience in conducting such evaluations in the context of neurologic (e.g., TBI, epilepsy, brain tumor, MS, movement disorders, neurodegenerative), neurodevelopmental (ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Specific Learning Disability) and psychiatric factors interfering with academic, occupational, and other aspects of everyday functioning.
(628) 212-7955 View (628) 212-7955
Photo of Janice Keenberg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janice Keenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
Therapies used when working with older adults, especially persons with Dementia include Reminiscent Therapy and Cognitive Stimulation.
Hello, my name is Janice Keenberg and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing in a small mountain town in Southern California. I have worked for more than two decades providing mental health counseling, liaison services, advocacy, and support services for community agencies and medical facilities in the Los Angeles and Bakersfield area. I enjoy working with adults of all ages and my focus is on helping clients cope with strong emotions brought about by depression, anxiety, stress, grief, chronic illness, and addiction.
Therapies used when working with older adults, especially persons with Dementia include Reminiscent Therapy and Cognitive Stimulation.
Hello, my name is Janice Keenberg and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing in a small mountain town in Southern California. I have worked for more than two decades providing mental health counseling, liaison services, advocacy, and support services for community agencies and medical facilities in the Los Angeles and Bakersfield area. I enjoy working with adults of all ages and my focus is on helping clients cope with strong emotions brought about by depression, anxiety, stress, grief, chronic illness, and addiction.
(415) 592-6513 View (415) 592-6513
Photo of Anica Leon-Weil, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anica Leon-Weil
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
I have experience working with folks across the lifespan in regards to relational issues, polyamory/open relationships, work stress, self esteem, boundary setting, life transitions, sexuality, substance use, trauma, depression, anxiety, perinatal/postpartum, & caregiving for elders, especially those with dementia.
Welcome! I’m glad you’re here and appreciate that it can take a lot to start the process of finding support. I believe we all have the capacity to experience satisfaction, fulfillment, and moments of joy in our lives. Let's explore the barriers to these things- both internally and externally, increase self understanding, and develop coping skills for the challenges you face. Life can be hard and we don’t always get to choose our circumstances but we can try to find ways to get through the best we can. I use a holistic approach with a backdrop of trauma focused, racial and social justice informed, and compassionate care.
I have experience working with folks across the lifespan in regards to relational issues, polyamory/open relationships, work stress, self esteem, boundary setting, life transitions, sexuality, substance use, trauma, depression, anxiety, perinatal/postpartum, & caregiving for elders, especially those with dementia.
Welcome! I’m glad you’re here and appreciate that it can take a lot to start the process of finding support. I believe we all have the capacity to experience satisfaction, fulfillment, and moments of joy in our lives. Let's explore the barriers to these things- both internally and externally, increase self understanding, and develop coping skills for the challenges you face. Life can be hard and we don’t always get to choose our circumstances but we can try to find ways to get through the best we can. I use a holistic approach with a backdrop of trauma focused, racial and social justice informed, and compassionate care.
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Photo of Dr. Jeffrey Lawton, PsyD, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Dr. Jeffrey Lawton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PsyD, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
Overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or intrusive thoughts? I offer online therapy in California to help you build resilience, regulate emotions, and face life’s challenges. Using evidence-based methods like CBT and DBT, along with insights from nutrition psychology, I address complex trauma, PTSD, grief, and relationship issues. I also provide support for dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. My HIPAA-compliant teletherapy is convenient, secure, and accessible. Book a session or free consultation today to start feeling better.
Overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or intrusive thoughts? I offer online therapy in California to help you build resilience, regulate emotions, and face life’s challenges. Using evidence-based methods like CBT and DBT, along with insights from nutrition psychology, I address complex trauma, PTSD, grief, and relationship issues. I also provide support for dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. My HIPAA-compliant teletherapy is convenient, secure, and accessible. Book a session or free consultation today to start feeling better.
(424) 377-0191 View (424) 377-0191
Photo of Rhianna Munguia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rhianna Munguia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
I have a history of working with older adults and a background in the medical field.
I work with all individuals from different backgrounds and different walks of life. I would like to think I can be a good fit to anyone who is interested in joining me in therapy and working together on goals or where you would like to be. I frequently check in to make sure you are heard, understood, and feel like your needs are being met.
I have a history of working with older adults and a background in the medical field.
I work with all individuals from different backgrounds and different walks of life. I would like to think I can be a good fit to anyone who is interested in joining me in therapy and working together on goals or where you would like to be. I frequently check in to make sure you are heard, understood, and feel like your needs are being met.
(951) 783-4795 View (951) 783-4795

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Dementia Therapists

Can dementia patients benefit from counseling?

Dementia patients can often benefit significantly from counseling. While neurologists typically treat dementia itself, counselors provide crucial emotional support for patients and their families. Therapists specializing in dementia can help clients navigate aging, end-of-life issues, social isolation, sleep challenges, and grief. They can also assist clients in adapting to the disease by addressing caregiving concerns and supporting family members. Counselors will often also collaborate with a patient's neurologist or other medical providers to manage dementia symptoms and medication needs.

How can you tell if someone has dementia or Alzheimer's?

To determine if someone has dementia or Alzheimer's disease, there are several signs and diagnostic methods that medical professionals use. Early signs of dementia often include memory loss, difficulty with problem-solving, and challenges in completing familiar tasks. Diagnosing dementia or Alzheimer's requires a comprehensive approach, as there is no single definitive test, and initial diagnosis can sometimes be difficult as symptoms tend to worsen progressively over time. To make a diagnosis, medical professionals typically use a combination of methods, including standardized questionnaires and cognitive tests to assess memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, psychiatric evaluations to understand mental health status, brain scans to look for physical changes in the brain, as well as other medical tests to rule out other conditions.

What are the first-line treatment options for Alzheimer’s disease?

There is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, but catching the disease in its early-to-moderate phases can be beneficial in order to initiate first-line treatments to help manage symptoms. Medications such as galantamine, rivastigmine, and donepezil are examples of cholinesterase inhibitors that are commonly prescribed for Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, working with a therapist or social worker can also often help patients with the disease address common behavioral and lifestyle concerns, such as anxiety, depression, irritability, sleep problems, social support, and housing changes.

When to seek treatment for Alzheimer’s?

It’s best to seek treatment at the first signs of Alzheimer's. Early warning signs of Alzheimer’s include memory problems, such as forgetting appointments or directions, as well as trouble concentrating, paying attention, retrieving words, and carrying out daily household tasks. An early diagnosis can help people slow the progression of the disease with medication and plan for the future in terms of housing, social/caregiving support, and finances.