Dementia Therapists in Downers Grove, IL

Photo of David Gish, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Gish
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, young adults, grief, loss, trauma, dementia, phobias, body image and financial concerns.
Feeling anxious, stressed or depressed? Many people are overwhelmed these days. There is help.
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, young adults, grief, loss, trauma, dementia, phobias, body image and financial concerns.
Feeling anxious, stressed or depressed? Many people are overwhelmed these days. There is help.
(312) 818-4473 View (312) 818-4473
Photo of Anna K Zabiegly - Anna K Zabiegly, Psy.D., P.C., PsyD, Psychologist
Anna K Zabiegly, Psy.D., P.C.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I also specialize in comprehensive memory assessments and dementia evaluations in older populations.
As a licensed clinical psychologist I dedicate my practice to the treatment of adolescent, adult, and older adult populations. I help clients overcome traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, & adjustment difficulties. I combine compassion and collaborative psychotherapy with EMDR to help clients reach optimal performance and transform their lives. In addition, I appreciate the personal difficulties athletes face and assist in breaking through mental barriers that prevent them from performing to their potential.
I also specialize in comprehensive memory assessments and dementia evaluations in older populations.
As a licensed clinical psychologist I dedicate my practice to the treatment of adolescent, adult, and older adult populations. I help clients overcome traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, & adjustment difficulties. I combine compassion and collaborative psychotherapy with EMDR to help clients reach optimal performance and transform their lives. In addition, I appreciate the personal difficulties athletes face and assist in breaking through mental barriers that prevent them from performing to their potential.
(630) 812-0922 View (630) 812-0922
Bradford Czochara
Psychologist, PsyD, ABN, LPC, CGP
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in child and adult issues related to neurodevelopmental disorders (Autism Spectrum Disorder, AD/HD, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) and neuropsychological issues (attention issues, memory issues).
I take a holistic approach to clients. I work with clients using an integrated approach focusing on symptom management and working towards goals to help clients reach their full potential. I provide neuropsychological assessment and provide neuropsychological services when needed. Please contact me by email for more information regarding my approach to clients and how I can help you.
I specialize in child and adult issues related to neurodevelopmental disorders (Autism Spectrum Disorder, AD/HD, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) and neuropsychological issues (attention issues, memory issues).
I take a holistic approach to clients. I work with clients using an integrated approach focusing on symptom management and working towards goals to help clients reach their full potential. I provide neuropsychological assessment and provide neuropsychological services when needed. Please contact me by email for more information regarding my approach to clients and how I can help you.
(815) 261-4035 View (815) 261-4035
Photo of Dr. Patricia A Pimental : Neuropsychologist, PsyD , ABN, FACPN, Psychologist
Dr. Patricia A Pimental : Neuropsychologist
Psychologist, PsyD , ABN, FACPN
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Neurobehavioral Medicine Consultants, Ltd. and Dr. Pimental wish you a warm welcome to this unique lifespan practice (ages 3-90) offering advanced services in neuropsychological testing and lifelong brain health. We offer therapy in the areas of clinical, health and medical psychology, pain management, rehabilitation psychology, neurocognitive rehabilitation, sports neuropsychology, and integrated mind-body, nutritional, exercise, spiritual and brain health programs (Brainsmart sm) for individuals and families. Public speaking for wellness programs in health, business, nursing facilities, and private groups is also available.
Neurobehavioral Medicine Consultants, Ltd. and Dr. Pimental wish you a warm welcome to this unique lifespan practice (ages 3-90) offering advanced services in neuropsychological testing and lifelong brain health. We offer therapy in the areas of clinical, health and medical psychology, pain management, rehabilitation psychology, neurocognitive rehabilitation, sports neuropsychology, and integrated mind-body, nutritional, exercise, spiritual and brain health programs (Brainsmart sm) for individuals and families. Public speaking for wellness programs in health, business, nursing facilities, and private groups is also available.
(630) 491-8363 View (630) 491-8363
Photo of Karla Rodriguez, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Karla Rodriguez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Karla recognizes the many struggles clients experience and how therapy can be intimidating. She strives to make all her patients feel welcome and safe with her warm and comforting presence. She believes all clients are unique and she is willing to meet them halfway on their journey to healing. Karla is a Master's graduate from Roosevelt University where she obtained her Cognitive Behavioral Therapy skills and enhanced them while studying and being an intern. Additionally, Karla is bilingual, fluent in both Spanish and English and is comfortable providing therapy in either language.
Karla recognizes the many struggles clients experience and how therapy can be intimidating. She strives to make all her patients feel welcome and safe with her warm and comforting presence. She believes all clients are unique and she is willing to meet them halfway on their journey to healing. Karla is a Master's graduate from Roosevelt University where she obtained her Cognitive Behavioral Therapy skills and enhanced them while studying and being an intern. Additionally, Karla is bilingual, fluent in both Spanish and English and is comfortable providing therapy in either language.
(331) 320-5981 View (331) 320-5981
Photo of Christie Ochoa, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christie Ochoa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I believe that therapy is a unique place to take a breath and a step back to figure out the direction to go. Life is a journey with both highs and lows. I believe that everyone can improve their lives and enjoy helping others identify the changes needed to better themselves. I am down-to-earth, relatable and genuine. I also enjoy pointing out the irony of everyday life and getting my clients to laugh at times. I believe therapy is beneficial to everyone and practice it myself.
I believe that therapy is a unique place to take a breath and a step back to figure out the direction to go. Life is a journey with both highs and lows. I believe that everyone can improve their lives and enjoy helping others identify the changes needed to better themselves. I am down-to-earth, relatable and genuine. I also enjoy pointing out the irony of everyday life and getting my clients to laugh at times. I believe therapy is beneficial to everyone and practice it myself.
(872) 401-8710 View (872) 401-8710
Photo of Stone Catchers Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stone Catchers Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Although there are times when we feel broken, hopeless, and unsure of the future, there is hope. Stone Catchers Counseling will help you take the first step to finding meaningful change. We are not defined by our worst moment, or even by a series of hard times. Regardless of how long you have been struggling, Stone Catchers Counseling can help. Your recovery can mean atonement and redemption; but, mostly freedom. Freedom to feel joy again, to live the life you want. We tailor an exclusive approach for every client based on individual needs. We honor and respect the uniqueness of each person we treat.
Although there are times when we feel broken, hopeless, and unsure of the future, there is hope. Stone Catchers Counseling will help you take the first step to finding meaningful change. We are not defined by our worst moment, or even by a series of hard times. Regardless of how long you have been struggling, Stone Catchers Counseling can help. Your recovery can mean atonement and redemption; but, mostly freedom. Freedom to feel joy again, to live the life you want. We tailor an exclusive approach for every client based on individual needs. We honor and respect the uniqueness of each person we treat.
(630) 324-4760 View (630) 324-4760
Photo of Dawn Kroencke, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
Dawn Kroencke
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
If you have been newly diagnosed with an illness (cancer, diabetes, heart disease, etc.), or if your illness has worsened or changed, you may feel confused and overwhelmed. You may find yourself struggling with sadness, grief, worry, and even irritability. I can help you navigate this landscape. I have specialized in working with people with complicated medical histories and treating co-occurring symptoms like anxiety, depression, grief/loss, sleeping and eating problems, relationship difficulties, and care-giving issues since the beginning of my career. I am also well-versed working with couple relationship problems and life transitions.
If you have been newly diagnosed with an illness (cancer, diabetes, heart disease, etc.), or if your illness has worsened or changed, you may feel confused and overwhelmed. You may find yourself struggling with sadness, grief, worry, and even irritability. I can help you navigate this landscape. I have specialized in working with people with complicated medical histories and treating co-occurring symptoms like anxiety, depression, grief/loss, sleeping and eating problems, relationship difficulties, and care-giving issues since the beginning of my career. I am also well-versed working with couple relationship problems and life transitions.
(630) 360-8489 View (630) 360-8489
Photo of Paula K Brown, MS, LCPC, CADC, Mediato, Counselor
Paula K Brown
Counselor, MS, LCPC, CADC, Mediato
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515
We all find ourselves at times in our life that we require nurturance to help us through life's changes. Loss in our lives requires care and guidance by a professional. Loss may be defined in various ways, it may be death, divorce, depression, addictions, infidelity, anxiety, infertility just to name a few. I work to specifically assist individuals, couples, families and groups to alleviate emotional disorders, to understand conscious and unconscious motivation, to resolve emotional, relationship and attitudinal conflicts and to help modify behaviors that interfere with effective emotional, social adaptive, and intellectual functioning.
We all find ourselves at times in our life that we require nurturance to help us through life's changes. Loss in our lives requires care and guidance by a professional. Loss may be defined in various ways, it may be death, divorce, depression, addictions, infidelity, anxiety, infertility just to name a few. I work to specifically assist individuals, couples, families and groups to alleviate emotional disorders, to understand conscious and unconscious motivation, to resolve emotional, relationship and attitudinal conflicts and to help modify behaviors that interfere with effective emotional, social adaptive, and intellectual functioning.
(630) 733-1450 View (630) 733-1450
Photo of Philip A Kirk, MA, NCC, LCPC, Counselor
Philip A Kirk
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Are your feelings of sadness and anxiety preventing you from enjoying life? Are you struggling with relationship difficulties or life transitions? Do you feel stuck? Do you desire closeness and greater intimacy with your partner/spouse? Do you want to improve your communications? You are not alone. Seeking therapy is the 1st step toward achieving a more satisfying life and/or relief from suffering. The decision to seek therapy can be difficult but helpful when we are overwhelmed by life experiences and unhappy with relationships in our lives. Treatment is confidential. My office is located in a private, safe & comfortable setting.
Are your feelings of sadness and anxiety preventing you from enjoying life? Are you struggling with relationship difficulties or life transitions? Do you feel stuck? Do you desire closeness and greater intimacy with your partner/spouse? Do you want to improve your communications? You are not alone. Seeking therapy is the 1st step toward achieving a more satisfying life and/or relief from suffering. The decision to seek therapy can be difficult but helpful when we are overwhelmed by life experiences and unhappy with relationships in our lives. Treatment is confidential. My office is located in a private, safe & comfortable setting.
(815) 261-1617 View (815) 261-1617
Photo of Colin A. Brietzke, PsyD, Psychologist
Colin A. Brietzke
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Dr. Brietzke is the owner of Chicagoland Neuropsychology. Our team focuses on correct diagnosis, but in our hearts, we all know that you don't treat a diagnosis. You treat a person. So, the real value of understanding how your brain works is knowing what treatments will actually help. To make that happen, we combine cutting-edge neuroimaging with traditional neuropsychological tests - and we just spend a lot of time talking to you to understand your experience. If you are interested in learning more, please reach out and say hi.
Dr. Brietzke is the owner of Chicagoland Neuropsychology. Our team focuses on correct diagnosis, but in our hearts, we all know that you don't treat a diagnosis. You treat a person. So, the real value of understanding how your brain works is knowing what treatments will actually help. To make that happen, we combine cutting-edge neuroimaging with traditional neuropsychological tests - and we just spend a lot of time talking to you to understand your experience. If you are interested in learning more, please reach out and say hi.
(708) 320-1441 View (708) 320-1441

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Peggy Rubenstein - Talk Dementia Care, LCPC
Talk Dementia Care
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
Practice devoted to concerns related to MCI, Alzheimer's disease and other dementias exclusively. I help care partners and significant others cope with the uncertainty a dementia diagnosis brings. My approach is empathetic and practical. Discussing feelings such as grief, anger, sadness and frustration can be very helpful in coping with the unwanted changes. I provide disease education about what to expect throughout the course of the disease. I also have expertise in care planning and can work with you to plan for the future and ensure that you are doing all you can for your loved one. Telehealth only. Weekend appt.'s available.
Practice devoted to concerns related to MCI, Alzheimer's disease and other dementias exclusively. I help care partners and significant others cope with the uncertainty a dementia diagnosis brings. My approach is empathetic and practical. Discussing feelings such as grief, anger, sadness and frustration can be very helpful in coping with the unwanted changes. I provide disease education about what to expect throughout the course of the disease. I also have expertise in care planning and can work with you to plan for the future and ensure that you are doing all you can for your loved one. Telehealth only. Weekend appt.'s available.
(847) 261-8189 View (847) 261-8189
Photo of George K. Bialkowski, PsyD, Psychologist
George K. Bialkowski
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60564
I specialize in neuropsychological assessment, focusing on dementia, memory issues, and cognitive impairments.
With over a decade of experience as a neuropsychologist, I am committed to enhancing the lives of adults and older adults grappling with cognitive challenges. My practice combines compassion with evidence-based methods to understand and address each patient's unique needs. I strive to provide insightful evaluations and diagnoses, focusing on improving quality of life and offering clarity in complex situations.
I specialize in neuropsychological assessment, focusing on dementia, memory issues, and cognitive impairments.
With over a decade of experience as a neuropsychologist, I am committed to enhancing the lives of adults and older adults grappling with cognitive challenges. My practice combines compassion with evidence-based methods to understand and address each patient's unique needs. I strive to provide insightful evaluations and diagnoses, focusing on improving quality of life and offering clarity in complex situations.
(630) 931-0773 View (630) 931-0773
Photo of Adam E Apostolovich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adam E Apostolovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
Through courses, training, and first hand experience I have helped individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, grief, behavioral issues, memory loss, and family conflict on both ends of the age spectrum.
I am honored to be a part of the process of you reaching out for guidance and help. If you are a parent of a struggling child or a caregiver to an elderly relative experiencing changes and decline, I hope that I can be of assistance. I believe in treating the individual as well as making sure to examine their system of support. While the bulk of the work I do is 1:1 with the patient, I am also available to be supportive to caregivers. I also put a strong emphasis on the relational part of the therapeutic process, as it is the key to communication and understanding.
Through courses, training, and first hand experience I have helped individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, grief, behavioral issues, memory loss, and family conflict on both ends of the age spectrum.
I am honored to be a part of the process of you reaching out for guidance and help. If you are a parent of a struggling child or a caregiver to an elderly relative experiencing changes and decline, I hope that I can be of assistance. I believe in treating the individual as well as making sure to examine their system of support. While the bulk of the work I do is 1:1 with the patient, I am also available to be supportive to caregivers. I also put a strong emphasis on the relational part of the therapeutic process, as it is the key to communication and understanding.
(331) 225-1055 View (331) 225-1055
Photo of Anthony M Tucci: Neuropsychologist, PhD, Psychologist
Anthony M Tucci: Neuropsychologist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oak Brook, IL 60523
, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease, Epilepsy), Dementia, and capacity to make decisions.
Dr. Tucci welcomes you to Piece by Piece: Neurobehavioral Services. Our team is dedicated to providing patients with comprehensive testing for all ages (2-99). As neuropsychologists, we work hard to understand what is going on in your life and your most pressing concerns. We use a series of interactive tasks to then identify your personal strengths and weaknesses. In doing so, we can then help you more deeply understand your unique set of strengths and weakness and how this impacts daily life. This information is then used to determine the best recommendations to help you meet your goals.
, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease, Epilepsy), Dementia, and capacity to make decisions.
Dr. Tucci welcomes you to Piece by Piece: Neurobehavioral Services. Our team is dedicated to providing patients with comprehensive testing for all ages (2-99). As neuropsychologists, we work hard to understand what is going on in your life and your most pressing concerns. We use a series of interactive tasks to then identify your personal strengths and weaknesses. In doing so, we can then help you more deeply understand your unique set of strengths and weakness and how this impacts daily life. This information is then used to determine the best recommendations to help you meet your goals.
(708) 419-2072 View (708) 419-2072
Photo of Sandra Lukashevich, LCPC, MS, NCC, Counselor
Sandra Lukashevich
Counselor, LCPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
Sandra Lukashevich is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. Sandy is licensed in both Illinois and Indiana. She works with children, adolescents, adults, seniors, couples, and families to provide counseling for anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, domestic violence, and other life challenges. Her experience also spans the life course to include counselling for self-harm, bullying, PTSD, dementia, and gender and sexual identity issues. Sandra is Gamer Affirmative and welcomes geek culture clients. She is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
Sandra Lukashevich is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. Sandy is licensed in both Illinois and Indiana. She works with children, adolescents, adults, seniors, couples, and families to provide counseling for anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, domestic violence, and other life challenges. Her experience also spans the life course to include counselling for self-harm, bullying, PTSD, dementia, and gender and sexual identity issues. Sandra is Gamer Affirmative and welcomes geek culture clients. She is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
(630) 848-9472 View (630) 848-9472
Photo of Teletherapy Emdr Offered Rosy Tyree, MAAT, ATR, LCPC, EMDR
Teletherapy Emdr Offered Rosy Tyree
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MAAT, ATR, LCPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Waitlist for new clients
Are you tired of feeling anxious and depressed? Do you have intrusive and/or brooding thoughts that may be connected to an old memory or issue that is hard to quiet? Are you tired of feeling miserable and would like to learn tangible and useful techniques that will help take the edge and, in some instances, eliminate these thoughts and feelings? If you are ready to make that change, are open minded to learning non-traditional therapeutic methods, then please reach out to me and we’ll get started! As of now, I am taking new clients with convenient Saturday and Sunday hours. I am providing teletherapy / Skype services.
Are you tired of feeling anxious and depressed? Do you have intrusive and/or brooding thoughts that may be connected to an old memory or issue that is hard to quiet? Are you tired of feeling miserable and would like to learn tangible and useful techniques that will help take the edge and, in some instances, eliminate these thoughts and feelings? If you are ready to make that change, are open minded to learning non-traditional therapeutic methods, then please reach out to me and we’ll get started! As of now, I am taking new clients with convenient Saturday and Sunday hours. I am providing teletherapy / Skype services.
(872) 266-7949 View (872) 266-7949
Photo of Jennifer Stelter, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennifer Stelter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521  (Online Only)
She is writing and publishing her first book introducing an innovative framework to dementia care with Johns Hopkins University due out in Spring 2021.
Dr. Jennifer Stelter is a licensed clinical psychologist seasoned in treating depression and anxiety and specialized in treating eating disorders, trauma, substance abuse, and dementia. She has 20 years experience in the healthcare field and over a decade in the long-term care industry. Dr. Stelter approaches care holistically and is experienced in providing emotion process work, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and rational emotive therapy (RET). She also has significant training in the use of non-pharmacy tools in the treatment of various mental health issues.
She is writing and publishing her first book introducing an innovative framework to dementia care with Johns Hopkins University due out in Spring 2021.
Dr. Jennifer Stelter is a licensed clinical psychologist seasoned in treating depression and anxiety and specialized in treating eating disorders, trauma, substance abuse, and dementia. She has 20 years experience in the healthcare field and over a decade in the long-term care industry. Dr. Stelter approaches care holistically and is experienced in providing emotion process work, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and rational emotive therapy (RET). She also has significant training in the use of non-pharmacy tools in the treatment of various mental health issues.
(312) 551-2404 View (312) 551-2404
Photo of Olesia Shalayska, PsyD, CDP, C-DBT, Psychologist
Olesia Shalayska
Psychologist, PsyD, CDP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555
I am a licensed clinician psychologist who has experience working with diverse client needs. I have treated clients with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders and comorbid substance abuse. My internship and post-doctoral training has provided me with unique training in providing therapy and neuropsychological assessment to patients with dementia, brain injury, stroke, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis and other medical conditions that are comorbid with psychiatric illnesses.
I am a licensed clinician psychologist who has experience working with diverse client needs. I have treated clients with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders and comorbid substance abuse. My internship and post-doctoral training has provided me with unique training in providing therapy and neuropsychological assessment to patients with dementia, brain injury, stroke, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis and other medical conditions that are comorbid with psychiatric illnesses.
(630) 686-8875 View (630) 686-8875
Photo of Dr. Aubrey Bornhoff, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Aubrey Bornhoff
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60504
For ages 4+, I assess for ADHD, Autism Spectrum, Learning Disorders, Cognitive Impairment, Dementia and other Memory Disorders, Mood Disorders, and Personality Disorders.
Have you begun to feel that no matter what you do, you continue to struggle with the same issues? It's likely you're simply treating symptoms, instead of the underlying cause. As a neuropsychologist, my aim is to help you solve that mystery - to not only help uncover the reason(s) you are struggling, but also to discover your strengths. This comprehensive process will result in attaining diagnostic clarity, aiding in formulating an effective treatment plan. I will also provide a comprehensive report detailing results, impressions, and recommendations for medical/psych treatment, work/school accommodations, and holistic alternatives.
For ages 4+, I assess for ADHD, Autism Spectrum, Learning Disorders, Cognitive Impairment, Dementia and other Memory Disorders, Mood Disorders, and Personality Disorders.
Have you begun to feel that no matter what you do, you continue to struggle with the same issues? It's likely you're simply treating symptoms, instead of the underlying cause. As a neuropsychologist, my aim is to help you solve that mystery - to not only help uncover the reason(s) you are struggling, but also to discover your strengths. This comprehensive process will result in attaining diagnostic clarity, aiding in formulating an effective treatment plan. I will also provide a comprehensive report detailing results, impressions, and recommendations for medical/psych treatment, work/school accommodations, and holistic alternatives.
(630) 448-8000 View (630) 448-8000

See more therapy options for Downers Grove

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.