Dementia Therapists in Altamonte Springs, FL
![Photo of Beth Davalos - Sunshine Senior Counseling Beth Davalos MSW, LCSW, MSW, RPT-S, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c0ee8d1-976b-41d0-b582-c9760c906523/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sunshine Senior Counseling Beth Davalos MSW, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RPT-S, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
NOW accepting new clients as of 6/1/2024. Sunshine Senior Counseling is a group practice of 12 clinicians. We specialize in working with adults in a variety of living settings and private homes. Our therapists have expertise working in areas of grief, depression, anxiety, loneliness, life transitions, mental illness, trauma, early-stage Dementia & Alzheimer’s, as well as with caregivers. I am the Clinical Director at Sunshine Counseling with over 30 years of experience working with seniors, adults, children, and teens. I love my work and strive to provide a caring & uplifting environment in which our clients can heal and grow.
NOW accepting new clients as of 6/1/2024. Sunshine Senior Counseling is a group practice of 12 clinicians. We specialize in working with adults in a variety of living settings and private homes. Our therapists have expertise working in areas of grief, depression, anxiety, loneliness, life transitions, mental illness, trauma, early-stage Dementia & Alzheimer’s, as well as with caregivers. I am the Clinical Director at Sunshine Counseling with over 30 years of experience working with seniors, adults, children, and teens. I love my work and strive to provide a caring & uplifting environment in which our clients can heal and grow.
![Photo of Theresa Grodi-Kennon - New Vision Counseling Center, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d090c9c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
New Vision Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Altamonte Springs, FL 32701 (Online Only)
I like to offer a safe, emotionally sound and inviting appointment for my clients. I believe in a non judgemental supportive and encouraging environment. I like to work as a team to help you to return to balance, confidence and success. Problem solving, listening and offering resources to work on the issues you feel are important to you. I assess the presenting problem, provide empathy, compassion, and problem-solving skills. Often I find just having someone have understand us and support us in our own unique way is the best approach.
I like to offer a safe, emotionally sound and inviting appointment for my clients. I believe in a non judgemental supportive and encouraging environment. I like to work as a team to help you to return to balance, confidence and success. Problem solving, listening and offering resources to work on the issues you feel are important to you. I assess the presenting problem, provide empathy, compassion, and problem-solving skills. Often I find just having someone have understand us and support us in our own unique way is the best approach.
![Photo of Neli Murtazina - Healing Psychiatry Of Florida INC , ARNP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54997bb5-2f06-4e0f-ad1f-157fa8b51815/2/320x400.jpeg)
Call us today! We accept new patients, Adults and Adolescents! NO wait time! Healing Psychiatry of Florida is a growing psychiatric services in Central Florida. Sad? Anxious? Relationship issues? We have available counselors and Nurse Practitioners to help you with medication management and counseling. If you or your loved one is struggling with a mental health issue, we can help. Our approach and techniques reflect evidence-based improvements over the last 25 years in mental health treatment technology.
Call us today! We accept new patients, Adults and Adolescents! NO wait time! Healing Psychiatry of Florida is a growing psychiatric services in Central Florida. Sad? Anxious? Relationship issues? We have available counselors and Nurse Practitioners to help you with medication management and counseling. If you or your loved one is struggling with a mental health issue, we can help. Our approach and techniques reflect evidence-based improvements over the last 25 years in mental health treatment technology.
![Photo of Dinah Braud, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3eff5e26-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Taking the steps to begin the journey in self-understanding, behavioral change, relationship management, family reconciliation, or dealing with every day stressors, can at times be quite challenging and unnerving. If you are reading this, I commend you for taking the first steps in healing. Whether you are in need of exploration or skill-building through psychotherapy, or diagnostic clarification or treatment recommendations through psychological testing, I look forward to taking this journey with you.
Taking the steps to begin the journey in self-understanding, behavioral change, relationship management, family reconciliation, or dealing with every day stressors, can at times be quite challenging and unnerving. If you are reading this, I commend you for taking the first steps in healing. Whether you are in need of exploration or skill-building through psychotherapy, or diagnostic clarification or treatment recommendations through psychological testing, I look forward to taking this journey with you.
![Photo of Miguel A Gonzalez, PhD, MS, MHS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46f001df-375f-4b2c-8053-17f215eb495b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Miguel A Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MS, MHS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am passionate about my profession, honest, compassionate, perceptive, and results-oriented. I am experienced working with families and couples in conflict, treating anxiety disorders, mood disorders and other issues. I am bilingual and bi-cultural, with native fluency in English and Spanish, and I conduct therapy in both. I offer a free 15-minute telephone consultation, and my office is conveniently accessible to residents of DeBary, Deltona, Sanford, Lake Mary, Longwood and Altamonte Springs.
I am passionate about my profession, honest, compassionate, perceptive, and results-oriented. I am experienced working with families and couples in conflict, treating anxiety disorders, mood disorders and other issues. I am bilingual and bi-cultural, with native fluency in English and Spanish, and I conduct therapy in both. I offer a free 15-minute telephone consultation, and my office is conveniently accessible to residents of DeBary, Deltona, Sanford, Lake Mary, Longwood and Altamonte Springs.
![Photo of Gregory Van Dam, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ed707a6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life is not always like a movie or TV show, with the perfect ending usually occurring within a 90 min time frame of your life! There are times when ALL of us find that we become overwhelmed which, if ignored, can lead to Depression, Anxiety, or Stress-related issues. We know how important the mind is, especially for proper growth at all stages of life. That's why at Comprehensive Psychology Services we specialize in three different forms of therapy that are uniquely designed to nurture the mind and advance the personal growth of people of all ages.
Life is not always like a movie or TV show, with the perfect ending usually occurring within a 90 min time frame of your life! There are times when ALL of us find that we become overwhelmed which, if ignored, can lead to Depression, Anxiety, or Stress-related issues. We know how important the mind is, especially for proper growth at all stages of life. That's why at Comprehensive Psychology Services we specialize in three different forms of therapy that are uniquely designed to nurture the mind and advance the personal growth of people of all ages.
![Photo of Glenis Contreras, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0166b7b1-9eac-4c06-8581-cc7dc7a402bb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Glenis Contreras
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Altamonte Springs, FL 32701 (Online Only)
I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Qualified Supervisor. I have been providing direct counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, the elderly, and families in different settings since 2012. My main goal in therapy is to provide YOU with the support and strategies YOU need to heal.
I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Qualified Supervisor. I have been providing direct counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, the elderly, and families in different settings since 2012. My main goal in therapy is to provide YOU with the support and strategies YOU need to heal.
![Photo of Kyria M. Ramsey-Dukes Lcsw Ccm, LCSW, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c274c5fd-e910-4a2d-a532-7d3b12b831bb/2/320x400.png)
Kyria M. Ramsey-Dukes Lcsw Ccm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCM
Verified Verified
Altamonte Springs, FL 32701 (Online Only)
Hi My name is Kyria Ramsey-Dukes, pronounced “Key-ria”. Congratulations! I am proud of you taking this first step! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years of experience ranging from Care Coordination, Life Transitions, Adjustment to Illnesses, Anxiety & Depression, Qualify of Life. I provide psychotherapy counseling for adults, women and geriatrics. I've serviced women in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) & Post Partum Depression. Adults & Life Transitions. I'm passionate about Geriatric Care and embracing life choice and critical decision and solutions..
Hi My name is Kyria Ramsey-Dukes, pronounced “Key-ria”. Congratulations! I am proud of you taking this first step! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years of experience ranging from Care Coordination, Life Transitions, Adjustment to Illnesses, Anxiety & Depression, Qualify of Life. I provide psychotherapy counseling for adults, women and geriatrics. I've serviced women in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) & Post Partum Depression. Adults & Life Transitions. I'm passionate about Geriatric Care and embracing life choice and critical decision and solutions..
![Photo of Lucas Mario Olan - Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, IMH, CH](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9310154c-71a2-4c84-93bc-7e82ae5d2420/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lucas Mario Olan - Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, IMH, CH
Verified Verified
Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
Anxiety, depression, decisions, and the feelings that are wrapped into all of this is part of what makes us human. We are created with a hardwiring that neurologically adapts to the every changing world we live in. In the midsts of it all is you and your specific, one of a kind, and valuable Mental Heath needs. These needs are important and because of that reason your commitment to them is equally important and for Lucas it is essential. One of Lucas core values is that there is endless options that can be discovered in therapy and the key lies within the client. Needs, goals and concerns are all angles in the process of a solution.
Anxiety, depression, decisions, and the feelings that are wrapped into all of this is part of what makes us human. We are created with a hardwiring that neurologically adapts to the every changing world we live in. In the midsts of it all is you and your specific, one of a kind, and valuable Mental Heath needs. These needs are important and because of that reason your commitment to them is equally important and for Lucas it is essential. One of Lucas core values is that there is endless options that can be discovered in therapy and the key lies within the client. Needs, goals and concerns are all angles in the process of a solution.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Nicole Chacho, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/717b3a90-ab6c-469d-bfee-ff6f2328a84e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Neurocognitive specialist for children, teens, adults, couples, & families navigating trauma, anxiety, grief/loss, adjustments (including homeschooling), stressors from chronic medical issues (e.g., various types of dementia, Alzheimer’s, post stroke, aphasia, TBI, cancer), & neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., ADD/ADHD, Asperger's/autism). Licensed Mental Health Counselor and EMDR Therapist with certifications in the areas of complex trauma (Levels I & II), dementia care, autism, ADHD, anxiety, and grief. Former psychometrist for Dr. Dano Leli (neuropsychologist), where I helped individuals navigate next steps & healing post evals.
Neurocognitive specialist for children, teens, adults, couples, & families navigating trauma, anxiety, grief/loss, adjustments (including homeschooling), stressors from chronic medical issues (e.g., various types of dementia, Alzheimer’s, post stroke, aphasia, TBI, cancer), & neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., ADD/ADHD, Asperger's/autism). Licensed Mental Health Counselor and EMDR Therapist with certifications in the areas of complex trauma (Levels I & II), dementia care, autism, ADHD, anxiety, and grief. Former psychometrist for Dr. Dano Leli (neuropsychologist), where I helped individuals navigate next steps & healing post evals.
![Photo of Nancy Shaw, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b14456bf-5edd-48b8-b1d3-1c0dd4ed1116/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients as of 6/1/2024. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida over twenty years of professional work experience and specialize in working with geriatric individuals. I regularly help clients with stress and anxiety, depression, pain management, communication within relationships and families, and adjusting to medical issues. It is my passion to provide counseling for older adults coping with medical illness, dementia for both the client and caregiver, transitions, trauma, grief and loss. I love my work and strive to provide a safe and uplifting environment in which my clients can heal and thrive.
Accepting new clients as of 6/1/2024. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida over twenty years of professional work experience and specialize in working with geriatric individuals. I regularly help clients with stress and anxiety, depression, pain management, communication within relationships and families, and adjusting to medical issues. It is my passion to provide counseling for older adults coping with medical illness, dementia for both the client and caregiver, transitions, trauma, grief and loss. I love my work and strive to provide a safe and uplifting environment in which my clients can heal and thrive.
![Photo of Daniel Paulson, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2135585d-6ea4-413f-92f5-13821232f795/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer a range of services for adults and older adults who are seeking to improve their mental health, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), memory function and dementia assessments, and targeted therapy for insomnia and sleep disorders.
Seeking therapy means acknowledging that life isn't just what we'd like, and finding hope that the future can be better. I specialize in the unique challenges faced by older adults and their families. Mental health is an important component of overall well-being, and through therapy, we will collaborate to identify your goals and use scientifically supported strategies to accomplish those goals. People who complete psychotherapy are happier in their relationships and more satisfied with their lives. I am proud to be a part of that transition for my patients.
I offer a range of services for adults and older adults who are seeking to improve their mental health, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), memory function and dementia assessments, and targeted therapy for insomnia and sleep disorders.
Seeking therapy means acknowledging that life isn't just what we'd like, and finding hope that the future can be better. I specialize in the unique challenges faced by older adults and their families. Mental health is an important component of overall well-being, and through therapy, we will collaborate to identify your goals and use scientifically supported strategies to accomplish those goals. People who complete psychotherapy are happier in their relationships and more satisfied with their lives. I am proud to be a part of that transition for my patients.
![Photo of Lynn Foltz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b19faa5-8a92-4b1b-aedd-7dcba8ba2aab/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with 17 years of professional work experience and have worked with diverse populations from teenagers to geriatric individuals. I have experience in helping clients with reducing stress and anxiety, resolving family conflicts, increasing communication within relationships and families, and working with individuals with PTSD from trauma and abuse. I have worked as a Medical Social Worker and provide counseling for older adults coping with medical illness, dementia for both the client and care giver, transitions, trauma, grief and loss.
Accepting new clients. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with 17 years of professional work experience and have worked with diverse populations from teenagers to geriatric individuals. I have experience in helping clients with reducing stress and anxiety, resolving family conflicts, increasing communication within relationships and families, and working with individuals with PTSD from trauma and abuse. I have worked as a Medical Social Worker and provide counseling for older adults coping with medical illness, dementia for both the client and care giver, transitions, trauma, grief and loss.
![Photo of Cynthia Quinton, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca2eb4b2-5ebd-42b2-b137-2c4a3b7882fb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cynthia Quinton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
Accepting new clients as of 03/15/2024. Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or are struggling with a medical diagnosis? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with over twenty-five years of professional work experience and specialize in working with geriatric individuals. It is my passion to provide counseling for older adults in need of pain management, coping with medical issues, struggling to communicate with family members, or experiencing grief. I work with individuals and family members to provide a safe and uplifting environment in which my clients can heal, grow, and thrive.
Accepting new clients as of 03/15/2024. Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or are struggling with a medical diagnosis? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida with over twenty-five years of professional work experience and specialize in working with geriatric individuals. It is my passion to provide counseling for older adults in need of pain management, coping with medical issues, struggling to communicate with family members, or experiencing grief. I work with individuals and family members to provide a safe and uplifting environment in which my clients can heal, grow, and thrive.
![Photo of Anita Vargas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35a23fcf-712f-4d11-9996-7d7ea216d102/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients as of 6/1/2024. I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of experience helping clients of all ages cope with the numerous stressors that life can hand us. I am passionate about helping clients to manage more effectively with anxiety, depression, pain management, medical issues, relationships, work issues, grief, memory issues, and trauma by creating a safe, validating environment where clients can heal and grow. Having worked for years in hospitals, facilities and in private practice, I have a deep understanding of the many issues that we can face in our lifetime .
Accepting new clients as of 6/1/2024. I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of experience helping clients of all ages cope with the numerous stressors that life can hand us. I am passionate about helping clients to manage more effectively with anxiety, depression, pain management, medical issues, relationships, work issues, grief, memory issues, and trauma by creating a safe, validating environment where clients can heal and grow. Having worked for years in hospitals, facilities and in private practice, I have a deep understanding of the many issues that we can face in our lifetime .
![Photo of Mary Beth McDermott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ee66719-0cca-451e-a998-9d1a6b2d510c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Beth McDermott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
Now accepting new clients as of 06/1/2024. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have over fifteen years of work experience and specialize in the fields of adults, geriatrics, and caregivers. It is my passion to provide counseling for older adults in need of pain management, depression, anxiety, coping with medical issues, or experiencing grief. I am also passionate about helping caregivers cope with the stress of this role and communicating their needs. I work with both individuals and family members. I strive to provide a safe and uplifting environment in which my clients can heal, grow, and thrive.
Now accepting new clients as of 06/1/2024. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have over fifteen years of work experience and specialize in the fields of adults, geriatrics, and caregivers. It is my passion to provide counseling for older adults in need of pain management, depression, anxiety, coping with medical issues, or experiencing grief. I am also passionate about helping caregivers cope with the stress of this role and communicating their needs. I work with both individuals and family members. I strive to provide a safe and uplifting environment in which my clients can heal, grow, and thrive.
![Photo of Christine Boido, TLHT , Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d8d8e38-7035-4e2b-b167-ae567987a883/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christine Boido
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, TLHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751 (Online Only)
Accepting new clients as of 5/01/2024. I have over 20 years as a therapist helping people of all ages cope with the numerous stressors that life can hand us. I have helped many to manage more effectively with anxiety, depression, relationships, work issues, health struggles, grief, pain management, memory issues and trauma. I believe in the 4 A’s of Mental Health: Awareness, Accommodations, Assistance, and Access and strive to provide a safe environment for clients where they can heal or grow.
Accepting new clients as of 5/01/2024. I have over 20 years as a therapist helping people of all ages cope with the numerous stressors that life can hand us. I have helped many to manage more effectively with anxiety, depression, relationships, work issues, health struggles, grief, pain management, memory issues and trauma. I believe in the 4 A’s of Mental Health: Awareness, Accommodations, Assistance, and Access and strive to provide a safe environment for clients where they can heal or grow.
![Photo of Jennifer Noto, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6140a77-c313-4d45-bd2e-3855ed422764/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients as of 5/01/2024. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida over fifteen years of work experience. I specialize in working with senior individuals and their caregivers. I regularly help clients with stress and anxiety, depression, pain management, communication within relationships and families, and adjusting to medical diagnoses. It is my passion to provide counseling for older adults coping with medical illness, transitions to new life stages, trauma, grief and loss. I am passionate about my work and strive to provide a caring and uplifting environment in which clients can heal and grow.
Accepting new clients as of 5/01/2024. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida over fifteen years of work experience. I specialize in working with senior individuals and their caregivers. I regularly help clients with stress and anxiety, depression, pain management, communication within relationships and families, and adjusting to medical diagnoses. It is my passion to provide counseling for older adults coping with medical illness, transitions to new life stages, trauma, grief and loss. I am passionate about my work and strive to provide a caring and uplifting environment in which clients can heal and grow.
![Photo of Rachel Creamer, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e446ba3-a3e2-460e-8ec9-09e8e88babe3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Finding balance in our relationships can be a struggle, especially for couples experiencing communication problems, conflict, difficulties with emotional or physical intimacy, or seeking reconciliation after an affair. It takes a lot of courage to seek help in finding that balance. As a Gottman trained therapist, I offer evidence-based care to help my clients focus on effective communication, conflict resolution, enhancing the marital friendship, and rebuilding a foundation of trust.
Finding balance in our relationships can be a struggle, especially for couples experiencing communication problems, conflict, difficulties with emotional or physical intimacy, or seeking reconciliation after an affair. It takes a lot of courage to seek help in finding that balance. As a Gottman trained therapist, I offer evidence-based care to help my clients focus on effective communication, conflict resolution, enhancing the marital friendship, and rebuilding a foundation of trust.
![Photo of Melvin Barnes - Sunshine Senior Counseling Melvin Barnes LCSW , LCSW, ACSW, ACHP-SW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8fc1f131-6516-4f56-9e5d-30b9e2ce1fa4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sunshine Senior Counseling Melvin Barnes LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, ACHP-SW, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
NOW Accepting new clients as of 5/01/2024. My goal is to help people reach a sense of purpose and peace. You will find a relaxed and judgment-free environment with me. I have more than 37 years of clinical experience in the fields of adults, geriatrics, psychiatry, health and physical rehabilitation, and clinical social work. I am also certified by the Academy of Certified Social Workers and hold advanced certification in hospice and palliative social work.
NOW Accepting new clients as of 5/01/2024. My goal is to help people reach a sense of purpose and peace. You will find a relaxed and judgment-free environment with me. I have more than 37 years of clinical experience in the fields of adults, geriatrics, psychiatry, health and physical rehabilitation, and clinical social work. I am also certified by the Academy of Certified Social Workers and hold advanced certification in hospice and palliative social work.
See more therapy options for Altamonte Springs
Nearby Dementia Therapists Searches for Altamonte Springs
- Apopka
- Clermont
- Deltona
- Lake Mary
- Longwood
- Maitland
- Orlando
- Sanford
- Windermere
- Winter Garden
- Winter Park
- Winter Springs
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.