Dementia Therapists in North Port, FL

Photo of Amanda McDonald Kennard, EdD, LMHC, NBCC, Counselor
Amanda McDonald Kennard
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, NBCC
Verified Verified
North Port, FL 34286  (Online Only)
The struggle is real and transitions in life are hard. If you are struggling with life's challenges, you are NOT alone. My name is Dr. Amanda M. Kennard and I will assist you in changing your life. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and National Board Certified Counselor. I create individualized interventions for each client, no matter how hard the problem. I meet each client where they currently are in their life and assist them in attaining where they want to be in their life.
The struggle is real and transitions in life are hard. If you are struggling with life's challenges, you are NOT alone. My name is Dr. Amanda M. Kennard and I will assist you in changing your life. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and National Board Certified Counselor. I create individualized interventions for each client, no matter how hard the problem. I meet each client where they currently are in their life and assist them in attaining where they want to be in their life.
(941) 344-2316 View (941) 344-2316
Photo of Daisy Torres, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daisy Torres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Port, FL 34288
In my 22 years of experience working with families, my primary goal is to help each individual reach their fullest potential. I utilize various treatment modalities to meet the client's needs. I use Cognitive Behavior Therapy, mindfulness, and various creative approaches to help clients learn to recognize destructive thought patterns that have negative influences on behavior. I assist clients to identify their personal therapeutic goals to create a path towards optimal health, inner peace, and feeling content. I'm available to collaborate with other treating professionals, parents, and school staff as needed with approved consent.
In my 22 years of experience working with families, my primary goal is to help each individual reach their fullest potential. I utilize various treatment modalities to meet the client's needs. I use Cognitive Behavior Therapy, mindfulness, and various creative approaches to help clients learn to recognize destructive thought patterns that have negative influences on behavior. I assist clients to identify their personal therapeutic goals to create a path towards optimal health, inner peace, and feeling content. I'm available to collaborate with other treating professionals, parents, and school staff as needed with approved consent.
(941) 352-8072 View (941) 352-8072
Photo of Heather Proctor, LMHC, Counselor
Heather Proctor
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
North Port, FL 34289
Welcome! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor providing individual and couples therapy. Couples can run into some uncharted areas of their lives that can be a real hurdle to overcome. Best that we first meet individually to gain the unique perspective that each of you have in the relationship. You recognize that issues need to be addressed so take that time individually to speak your mind about what you feel is happening in the relationship. Then you as a couple can work together towards achieving a more satisfying relationship for both of you.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor providing individual and couples therapy. Couples can run into some uncharted areas of their lives that can be a real hurdle to overcome. Best that we first meet individually to gain the unique perspective that each of you have in the relationship. You recognize that issues need to be addressed so take that time individually to speak your mind about what you feel is happening in the relationship. Then you as a couple can work together towards achieving a more satisfying relationship for both of you.
(941) 866-6478 View (941) 866-6478
Photo of Christine Swiersz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Swiersz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Port, FL 34288
Hi! My name is Christine Swiersz. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida. I am a warm, supportive therapist who specializes in helping adults of all ages who are experiencing anxiety, stress, or depression. My professional goal is to help others find the peace they want and need in their daily lives. I will support you by helping you to address your feelings while assisting you in gaining the tools and skills to successfully overcome feelings of anxiety or depression. I am driven to do this work daily by the joy that I experience when I assist a client to make progress toward obtaining the peace that they are seeking.
Hi! My name is Christine Swiersz. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida. I am a warm, supportive therapist who specializes in helping adults of all ages who are experiencing anxiety, stress, or depression. My professional goal is to help others find the peace they want and need in their daily lives. I will support you by helping you to address your feelings while assisting you in gaining the tools and skills to successfully overcome feelings of anxiety or depression. I am driven to do this work daily by the joy that I experience when I assist a client to make progress toward obtaining the peace that they are seeking.
(786) 410-2991 View (786) 410-2991
Photo of Laurie-Ann O'Connor, EdD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Laurie-Ann O'Connor
Pre-Licensed Professional, EdD
Not Verified Not Verified
North Port, FL 34286
Waitlist for new clients
(941) 585-0204 View (941) 585-0204

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kelley Sgroi, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Kelley Sgroi
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Charlotte, FL 33948
If you are feeling stuck, unfulfilled, struggling with anxiety, depression, trying to overcome past traumas and searching for the way to live a life filled with joy, then let’s do it! Aspire for greatness and transform your life through self empowerment! When you work with me, you will be met with compassion and empathy no matter what challenges you may be facing. I specialize in complex trauma, substance abuse, eating disorders and couples therapy. For couples, I am Gottman Level 1,2 and 3 certified and certified as a Leader in the 7 Principles for Making Marriage Work. If building a stronger marriage is important, I can help.
If you are feeling stuck, unfulfilled, struggling with anxiety, depression, trying to overcome past traumas and searching for the way to live a life filled with joy, then let’s do it! Aspire for greatness and transform your life through self empowerment! When you work with me, you will be met with compassion and empathy no matter what challenges you may be facing. I specialize in complex trauma, substance abuse, eating disorders and couples therapy. For couples, I am Gottman Level 1,2 and 3 certified and certified as a Leader in the 7 Principles for Making Marriage Work. If building a stronger marriage is important, I can help.
(941) 214-7140 View (941) 214-7140
Photo of Cora Taylor, Psy, S, LMHC, PA, Counselor
Cora Taylor
Counselor, Psy, S, LMHC, PA
Verified Verified
Port Charlotte, FL 33948
No matter where you go, there you are! Change is often hard. Crossway Counseling & Learning Center was founded in 1998 by Cora Taylor, Psy.S., to bring hope and healing for many of the issues in life, both current and past, that keep individuals from becoming the persons they want to be. Some of those issues may be depression, relationships, marriage, divorce, anxiety, stress, trauma, and Long-Covid. My passion is healing. My goal is to help you develop better coping skills for dealing with whatever circumstances have gotten you stuck and unable to move forward in your life and relationships.
No matter where you go, there you are! Change is often hard. Crossway Counseling & Learning Center was founded in 1998 by Cora Taylor, Psy.S., to bring hope and healing for many of the issues in life, both current and past, that keep individuals from becoming the persons they want to be. Some of those issues may be depression, relationships, marriage, divorce, anxiety, stress, trauma, and Long-Covid. My passion is healing. My goal is to help you develop better coping skills for dealing with whatever circumstances have gotten you stuck and unable to move forward in your life and relationships.
(941) 740-8699 View (941) 740-8699

Online Therapists

Photo of Kaushik Shivani - Saible Neuropsychology, Psychologist
Saible Neuropsychology
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
Our neuropsychologists assist with diagnostic clarification and treatment planning for children and adolescents with ADHD, ID, Autism, learning disorders, and behavioral issues, and assist adults with evaluations related to TBI, concussions, dementia, stroke, epilepsy, ADHD, psychiatric disorders, and SSD benefits.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Saible Neuropsychology offers therapy, neuropsychological evaluations, & psychological testing services to children, adolescents, adults, geriatric adults, couples, and families. Our therapists utilize a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused, and Trauma Focused CBT. Each of our providers specializes in treating specific psychiatric conditions and working with certain age ranges. You can trust that you or your loved ones are in the care of a highly knowledgeable and experienced therapist. We are here to help you heal.
Our neuropsychologists assist with diagnostic clarification and treatment planning for children and adolescents with ADHD, ID, Autism, learning disorders, and behavioral issues, and assist adults with evaluations related to TBI, concussions, dementia, stroke, epilepsy, ADHD, psychiatric disorders, and SSD benefits.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Saible Neuropsychology offers therapy, neuropsychological evaluations, & psychological testing services to children, adolescents, adults, geriatric adults, couples, and families. Our therapists utilize a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused, and Trauma Focused CBT. Each of our providers specializes in treating specific psychiatric conditions and working with certain age ranges. You can trust that you or your loved ones are in the care of a highly knowledgeable and experienced therapist. We are here to help you heal.
(727) 205-2260 View (727) 205-2260
Photo of Dr. Yelda Long, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Yelda Long
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33629
At Sunstate Psychology, Dr. Long provides neuropsychological evaluations to assess for concerns related to ADHD, learning disorders, intellectual disorders, giftedness, acquired and organic neurological conditions (i.e., seizures, stroke, traumatic brain injuries, memory problems, dementia) and emotional disorders (i.e., anxiety, depression). Her education and training has allowed her to gain experience and specialize in the assessment of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders for individuals throughout the lifespan. She currently offers testing for children, teen, adult, and geriatric populations.
At Sunstate Psychology, Dr. Long provides neuropsychological evaluations to assess for concerns related to ADHD, learning disorders, intellectual disorders, giftedness, acquired and organic neurological conditions (i.e., seizures, stroke, traumatic brain injuries, memory problems, dementia) and emotional disorders (i.e., anxiety, depression). Her education and training has allowed her to gain experience and specialize in the assessment of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders for individuals throughout the lifespan. She currently offers testing for children, teen, adult, and geriatric populations.
(813) 291-7150 View (813) 291-7150
Photo of Dr. Gina Midyett, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Dr. Gina Midyett
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33607
We also administer SSI and disability assessments as well as assessments for Alzheimer's Disorder and Dementia.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Psychotherapist. I provide a safe, non judgmental and down to earth environment for my clients to express themselves. I offer individual, couple and family therapy. I assist my clients in developing new coping skills to deal with their presenting issues. I believe that developing new, healthy ways of thinking and living can lead to a healthy mind and body. I incorporate nutrition and exercise consultation as related to mental health.I specialize but not limited to depression, anxiety, phobias, relationship issues, grief/loss,child/adolescent issues,and eating disorders.
We also administer SSI and disability assessments as well as assessments for Alzheimer's Disorder and Dementia.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Psychotherapist. I provide a safe, non judgmental and down to earth environment for my clients to express themselves. I offer individual, couple and family therapy. I assist my clients in developing new coping skills to deal with their presenting issues. I believe that developing new, healthy ways of thinking and living can lead to a healthy mind and body. I incorporate nutrition and exercise consultation as related to mental health.I specialize but not limited to depression, anxiety, phobias, relationship issues, grief/loss,child/adolescent issues,and eating disorders.
(813) 212-9285 View (813) 212-9285
Photo of Malissa B Harris, LCSW, MSW, CMC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Malissa B Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CMC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33716
I am a certified Geriatric Care Manager and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I provide mental health therapy along with care management which includes attending medical appointments, referrals and resources, communicating with families and providers, and being the point of contact and liaison between all parties. I have a holistic approach as I focus on the person as a whole to incorporate not just your diagnoses, but your environment as well. I work with individuals, caregivers, and families, especially of those with aging issues, Dementia (such as Alzheimer’s), cognitive impairment and caregiver burnout.
I am a certified Geriatric Care Manager and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I provide mental health therapy along with care management which includes attending medical appointments, referrals and resources, communicating with families and providers, and being the point of contact and liaison between all parties. I have a holistic approach as I focus on the person as a whole to incorporate not just your diagnoses, but your environment as well. I work with individuals, caregivers, and families, especially of those with aging issues, Dementia (such as Alzheimer’s), cognitive impairment and caregiver burnout.
(586) 300-3058 View (586) 300-3058
Photo of Dr. Gina Midyett, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Dr. Gina Midyett
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33607
We also administer SSI and disability evaluations as well as assessments for Alzheimer's Disorder and Dementia.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Psychotherapist. I provide a safe, non judgmental and down to earth environment for my clients to express themselves. I offer individual, couple and family therapy. I assist my clients in developing new coping skills to deal with their presenting issues. I believe that developing new, healthy ways of thinking and living can lead to a healthy mind and body. I incorporate nutrition and exercise consultation as related to mental health.I specialize but not limited to depression, anxiety, phobias, relationship issues, grief/loss,child/adolescent issues,and eating disorders.
We also administer SSI and disability evaluations as well as assessments for Alzheimer's Disorder and Dementia.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Psychotherapist. I provide a safe, non judgmental and down to earth environment for my clients to express themselves. I offer individual, couple and family therapy. I assist my clients in developing new coping skills to deal with their presenting issues. I believe that developing new, healthy ways of thinking and living can lead to a healthy mind and body. I incorporate nutrition and exercise consultation as related to mental health.I specialize but not limited to depression, anxiety, phobias, relationship issues, grief/loss,child/adolescent issues,and eating disorders.
(813) 438-4957 View (813) 438-4957
Photo of Taylor Madison Cooper - Cypress Wellness Center, MSW, LMSW, RCSWI
Cypress Wellness Center
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW, LMSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33707
My services apply to clients of all ages but specialize in older adults and individuals with chronic conditions. My modality is a strength-based approach to allow individuals to find resiliency in the difficulties they face due to normal aging processes, pain, disease management, caregiver fatigue, grief and burnout. My approach focuses on helping you recognize your inherent strengths and fostering resilience through mindfulness and stress reduction techniques.
My services apply to clients of all ages but specialize in older adults and individuals with chronic conditions. My modality is a strength-based approach to allow individuals to find resiliency in the difficulties they face due to normal aging processes, pain, disease management, caregiver fatigue, grief and burnout. My approach focuses on helping you recognize your inherent strengths and fostering resilience through mindfulness and stress reduction techniques.
(727) 496-7817 View (727) 496-7817
Photo of Dr. Lisandra Mendoza, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Lisandra Mendoza
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, disconnected, and inadequate? Do you feel like you’re constantly battling to improve your health, but your body lets you down? Maybe you’re finding it hard to fit in a world that’s not well-suited for people with certain neurological differences. It’s possible you’re experiencing issues with distractibility, memory, sensory sensitivity, cognitive and emotional overload, anxiety, inadequacy, and self-doubt. Perhaps you’ve noticed these changes in yourself and are looking for answers. You don’t have to face your difficulties alone!
Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, disconnected, and inadequate? Do you feel like you’re constantly battling to improve your health, but your body lets you down? Maybe you’re finding it hard to fit in a world that’s not well-suited for people with certain neurological differences. It’s possible you’re experiencing issues with distractibility, memory, sensory sensitivity, cognitive and emotional overload, anxiety, inadequacy, and self-doubt. Perhaps you’ve noticed these changes in yourself and are looking for answers. You don’t have to face your difficulties alone!
(239) 429-0805 View (239) 429-0805
Photo of Dr. Marcy Stern -Medicare Provider - Chronic Illness and Anxiety/Grief -Dr. Marcy Stern, EdD, LMHC, Counselor
Chronic Illness and Anxiety/Grief -Dr. Marcy Stern
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34239  (Online Only)
I am a Medicare provider. My approach includes present-centered, strength-based therapy. I provide you with practical tools that you will be able to use in your everyday life. I also encourage excellent self-care and advocate for healthy living within our healthcare system. My focus is on helping patients and families who are struggling with anxiety, depression, Cancer, Dementia, and other physical pain and illness. I am a trained Gestalt Therapist and work in the here and now using mindfulness, a combination of wellness models, and solution-focused intention. I believe that psychotherapy is crucial to good health.
I am a Medicare provider. My approach includes present-centered, strength-based therapy. I provide you with practical tools that you will be able to use in your everyday life. I also encourage excellent self-care and advocate for healthy living within our healthcare system. My focus is on helping patients and families who are struggling with anxiety, depression, Cancer, Dementia, and other physical pain and illness. I am a trained Gestalt Therapist and work in the here and now using mindfulness, a combination of wellness models, and solution-focused intention. I believe that psychotherapy is crucial to good health.
(941) 740-5357 View (941) 740-5357
Photo of Paul Gunser - Psychological Consultation and Therapy Services, PsyD, Psychologist
Psychological Consultation and Therapy Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34232
Please be advised that I offer evaluations for ADHD and Alzheimer's, and other dementia as a Neuropsychologist.
I specialize in working with adults experiencing stress, anxiety, and depression. They may be having health problems, causing anxiety and depressed feelings. In addition, many of my patients are experiencing chronic pain, and I have helped them cope with reductions in pain levels. I am now offering ADHD Evaluations for adolescents and adults. I offer In-Person (through December) and Virtual telehealth sessions. I provide testing in my office in Millerton, NY, or online. Biofeedback treatments will also be available. I am licensed in NY and Connecticut and registered in Florida.
Please be advised that I offer evaluations for ADHD and Alzheimer's, and other dementia as a Neuropsychologist.
I specialize in working with adults experiencing stress, anxiety, and depression. They may be having health problems, causing anxiety and depressed feelings. In addition, many of my patients are experiencing chronic pain, and I have helped them cope with reductions in pain levels. I am now offering ADHD Evaluations for adolescents and adults. I offer In-Person (through December) and Virtual telehealth sessions. I provide testing in my office in Millerton, NY, or online. Biofeedback treatments will also be available. I am licensed in NY and Connecticut and registered in Florida.
(941) 210-3771 View (941) 210-3771
Photo of Robin Zazove, LCPC
Robin Zazove
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naples, FL 34105  (Online Only)
After many years working in nursing homes, hospice, and memory care, I am uniquely capable of helping individuals and families navigate aging/end-of-life issues, and have been a Certified Dementia Practitioner.
I understand life can be stressful. We all struggle at times and need someone to help us through. In my work with clients and families, I firmly believe in building on the strengths and resilience you already possess to help you get through more difficult moments. My attitude and approach to treatment is that while we all have our struggles, every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow as a person. I specialize in working with individuals or adult family members, such as couples, siblings, parents, or entire family units.
After many years working in nursing homes, hospice, and memory care, I am uniquely capable of helping individuals and families navigate aging/end-of-life issues, and have been a Certified Dementia Practitioner.
I understand life can be stressful. We all struggle at times and need someone to help us through. In my work with clients and families, I firmly believe in building on the strengths and resilience you already possess to help you get through more difficult moments. My attitude and approach to treatment is that while we all have our struggles, every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow as a person. I specialize in working with individuals or adult family members, such as couples, siblings, parents, or entire family units.
(708) 627-9689 View (708) 627-9689
Photo of Andrea Boykins - Andrea Boykins, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Andrea Boykins
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33710
Are you struggling with self care, self love, establishing balances, making connections, relationships and find your way. I am an Intern Counselor filled with compassion, empathy, understanding and dedication. I have been provided with up to date training and resources. I utilize cognitive behavioral, art, music, and holistic technique to bring awareness to hidden emotions, thoughts and behaviors. This approach enhances memory, improves communication, self confidences and overall functioning. You have complete control of your journey, with my assist you can find a healthy coping strategies in your transformation to change and heal.
Are you struggling with self care, self love, establishing balances, making connections, relationships and find your way. I am an Intern Counselor filled with compassion, empathy, understanding and dedication. I have been provided with up to date training and resources. I utilize cognitive behavioral, art, music, and holistic technique to bring awareness to hidden emotions, thoughts and behaviors. This approach enhances memory, improves communication, self confidences and overall functioning. You have complete control of your journey, with my assist you can find a healthy coping strategies in your transformation to change and heal.
(727) 435-7945 View (727) 435-7945
Photo of Raquel M. Gonzalez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Raquel M. Gonzalez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bonita Springs, FL 34134
I have over 29 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults and provide services in English and Spanish.
“there is a reality that cannot be avoided, denied or talked away. There are losses that are not to be repaired; at best they can be acknowledged, and the grief for them accepted. The great anxiety at separation, the haunting doubt of self, the ever-lurking fear of others, the living at the edge of loneliness– such are a part of one and may never be gone. … In psychotherapeutic work, there is not a “recovery” of health, but only the gaining of strength to go on from what has been, into an unknown, with, perhaps, increased chance for both gain and loss, but with no clear prediction of the future.” (Otto Will)
I have over 29 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults and provide services in English and Spanish.
“there is a reality that cannot be avoided, denied or talked away. There are losses that are not to be repaired; at best they can be acknowledged, and the grief for them accepted. The great anxiety at separation, the haunting doubt of self, the ever-lurking fear of others, the living at the edge of loneliness– such are a part of one and may never be gone. … In psychotherapeutic work, there is not a “recovery” of health, but only the gaining of strength to go on from what has been, into an unknown, with, perhaps, increased chance for both gain and loss, but with no clear prediction of the future.” (Otto Will)
(239) 539-2926 View (239) 539-2926
Photo of Lurline Aslanian, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lurline Aslanian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
I consult with families regarding planning for their loved ones who are ill, who may be dying or who have dementia.
Would you like to have the understanding and the tools to feel lighter, more alive, more positive, more peaceful and whole? Working together in a collaborative process in teletherapy or in person, I assist you to discover heartfelt solutions to your most pressing issues. This is accomplished in a respectful atmosphere of safety, acceptance and non-judgment. You will learn new approaches and tools for coping. This process supports health, well being, and spiritual evolvement. With over forty years of experience as a psychoanalyst and psychotherapist, I am grateful to still be learning and contributing.
I consult with families regarding planning for their loved ones who are ill, who may be dying or who have dementia.
Would you like to have the understanding and the tools to feel lighter, more alive, more positive, more peaceful and whole? Working together in a collaborative process in teletherapy or in person, I assist you to discover heartfelt solutions to your most pressing issues. This is accomplished in a respectful atmosphere of safety, acceptance and non-judgment. You will learn new approaches and tools for coping. This process supports health, well being, and spiritual evolvement. With over forty years of experience as a psychoanalyst and psychotherapist, I am grateful to still be learning and contributing.
(941) 803-4865 View (941) 803-4865
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.