Dementia Therapists in Oregon

Photo of Troy Kindy - Portland Elder Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Portland Elder Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scappoose, OR 97056
I offer counseling for older adults, caregivers, and persons affected by aging.
Mental health concerns for aging persons can become crippling. Older adults who experience depression and anxiety will likely continue to do so until its addressed through assessment, diagnosis and treatment by a clinician. Symptoms that indicate depression and anxiety in older adults can include feeling sad or down, feeling lonely, tearfulness, excessive fears and worries, decreases in appetite and weight, extreme mood changes, withdraw from friends, family, and social events, and frequently talking abut death. Now accepting new patients!
I offer counseling for older adults, caregivers, and persons affected by aging.
Mental health concerns for aging persons can become crippling. Older adults who experience depression and anxiety will likely continue to do so until its addressed through assessment, diagnosis and treatment by a clinician. Symptoms that indicate depression and anxiety in older adults can include feeling sad or down, feeling lonely, tearfulness, excessive fears and worries, decreases in appetite and weight, extreme mood changes, withdraw from friends, family, and social events, and frequently talking abut death. Now accepting new patients!
(503) 543-1408 View (503) 543-1408
Photo of Amy Swallow - Opal & Sage Art Therapy, Amy Swallow, LPC, LCAT, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Opal & Sage Art Therapy, Amy Swallow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
Opal & Sage offers individual and group art therapy and counseling services that are person-centered and strengths-based. I welcome adult clients of all ages and abilities, with any personal concerns and conflicts regarding mental health. I specialize in working with individuals with dementia, traumatic brain injury, developmental disabilities, and physical disabilities.
Opal & Sage offers individual and group art therapy and counseling services that are person-centered and strengths-based. I welcome adult clients of all ages and abilities, with any personal concerns and conflicts regarding mental health. I specialize in working with individuals with dementia, traumatic brain injury, developmental disabilities, and physical disabilities.
(503) 506-2941 View (503) 506-2941
Photo of Angela D. Plowhead - Capacity Solutions LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Capacity Solutions LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97302
We provide assessment, diagnosis and treatment for today's growing geriatric population and offer evidence based and individualized solutions for dealing with the challenges that come with normal aging, health considerations, mood changes, trauma, stroke and dementia. We establish a diagnosis, identify cognitive & functional strengths & weaknesses, provide support and education, cognitive rehabilitation training, identify resources to remain at home, help determine if higher level of care is needed, assess the need for assistance with finances, medical decisions, & driving, and offer recommendations for managing difficult behaviors.
We provide assessment, diagnosis and treatment for today's growing geriatric population and offer evidence based and individualized solutions for dealing with the challenges that come with normal aging, health considerations, mood changes, trauma, stroke and dementia. We establish a diagnosis, identify cognitive & functional strengths & weaknesses, provide support and education, cognitive rehabilitation training, identify resources to remain at home, help determine if higher level of care is needed, assess the need for assistance with finances, medical decisions, & driving, and offer recommendations for managing difficult behaviors.
(503) 376-8685 View (503) 376-8685
Photo of Loren Eugene Mallory, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Loren Eugene Mallory
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Oregon City, OR 97045
Mallory evaluates patients with traumatic brain injury or concussion, stroke or transient ischemic attacks, mild cognitive impairment or dementia, cognitive impairment due to medical and neurological illnesses, and other neurocognitive issues.
Loren E. Mallory PhD, ABPP, is the founder and director of Willamette Falls Neuropsychology LLC. Dr. Mallory provides the direction for the clinic and conducts clinical neuropsychological evaluations for a variety of patients. Dr. Mallory's practice is limited to neuropsychology. Visit our website at www.wfneuro.com.
Mallory evaluates patients with traumatic brain injury or concussion, stroke or transient ischemic attacks, mild cognitive impairment or dementia, cognitive impairment due to medical and neurological illnesses, and other neurocognitive issues.
Loren E. Mallory PhD, ABPP, is the founder and director of Willamette Falls Neuropsychology LLC. Dr. Mallory provides the direction for the clinic and conducts clinical neuropsychological evaluations for a variety of patients. Dr. Mallory's practice is limited to neuropsychology. Visit our website at www.wfneuro.com.
(503) 616-4233 View (503) 616-4233
Photo of Daniella Marchick, LPC, CRC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniella Marchick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC, MS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
I provide a kind, calm, safe, and understanding environment with a Certificate in Gerontology and experience with Dementia.
5am -1pm Telehealth spots OPEN for you or your parents! I support individuals gain insight into their patterns, learn coping skills, emotional awareness, and act from a place of acceptance and self-compassion. As a seasoned therapist specializing in Eldercaregivers, I understand the challenges faced by both adult children and spouses as they navigate difficult decisions, working together with others, attending to relationship to death and managing burnout. Together we examine expectations and grief. Grappling with a myriad of emotions, including guilt, stress, grief and uncertainty is supported through the safe therapy space.
I provide a kind, calm, safe, and understanding environment with a Certificate in Gerontology and experience with Dementia.
5am -1pm Telehealth spots OPEN for you or your parents! I support individuals gain insight into their patterns, learn coping skills, emotional awareness, and act from a place of acceptance and self-compassion. As a seasoned therapist specializing in Eldercaregivers, I understand the challenges faced by both adult children and spouses as they navigate difficult decisions, working together with others, attending to relationship to death and managing burnout. Together we examine expectations and grief. Grappling with a myriad of emotions, including guilt, stress, grief and uncertainty is supported through the safe therapy space.
(971) 274-5611 View (971) 274-5611
Photo of Marc Parker, PsyD, Psychologist
Marc Parker
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213
Waitlist for new clients
I provide psychodiagnostic and neuropsychological assessment for older adults. These evaluations can be useful in providing diagnostic clarity, and in exploring changes in memory and cognitive functioning. All assessments include a feedback session, during which I go over my findings and make recommendations for improving quality of life. I also write a detailed report, which I can send to other medical providers with a signed release.
I provide psychodiagnostic and neuropsychological assessment for older adults. These evaluations can be useful in providing diagnostic clarity, and in exploring changes in memory and cognitive functioning. All assessments include a feedback session, during which I go over my findings and make recommendations for improving quality of life. I also write a detailed report, which I can send to other medical providers with a signed release.
(503) 227-3090 View (503) 227-3090
Photo of Amy Friday, PhD, Psychologist
Amy Friday
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
West Linn, OR 97068
Are you worried whether someone is suffering from depression, dementia, or other medical or emotional problems? We work with you and your doctors to answer those questions.
Hello! I am a clinical psychologist specializing in geropsychology and neuropsychology. I complete neuropsychological assessments to give patients and doctors information about brain functioning ( memory, decision making, etc). OPAL, an institute for Passionate Aging and Living, is the organization through which I help people embrace and optimize their aging experience. I work with patients to use brain, emotional, and social strengths and resources to work around areas of weakness or problems. I also have a YouTube channel ("This Beautiful Brain") that helps people learn how science helps us age well, and a weekly newsletter.
Are you worried whether someone is suffering from depression, dementia, or other medical or emotional problems? We work with you and your doctors to answer those questions.
Hello! I am a clinical psychologist specializing in geropsychology and neuropsychology. I complete neuropsychological assessments to give patients and doctors information about brain functioning ( memory, decision making, etc). OPAL, an institute for Passionate Aging and Living, is the organization through which I help people embrace and optimize their aging experience. I work with patients to use brain, emotional, and social strengths and resources to work around areas of weakness or problems. I also have a YouTube channel ("This Beautiful Brain") that helps people learn how science helps us age well, and a weekly newsletter.
(971) 832-5906 View (971) 832-5906
Photo of Josh Clark, PhD, Psychologist
Josh Clark
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
With testing, I provide evaluations for those concerned with cognitive changes related to possible dementia, stroke, TBI, or other neurological issues.
You are resilient. You can overcome trauma, heal from pain, rise up out of depression, and free yourself from the grip of anxiety. Brain science confirms our minds have a profound capacity for healing, especially when tapped into correctly. At Resilient Minds, LLC, my private practice, I specialize in comprehensive neuropsychological testing, psychological evaluations, and evidence-based therapy. With warmth, compassion and flexibility, I can help you reignite your innate capacity for connection, purpose, and resilience. Reach out today to get started, or visit my website at: www.resilientmindsllc.com.
With testing, I provide evaluations for those concerned with cognitive changes related to possible dementia, stroke, TBI, or other neurological issues.
You are resilient. You can overcome trauma, heal from pain, rise up out of depression, and free yourself from the grip of anxiety. Brain science confirms our minds have a profound capacity for healing, especially when tapped into correctly. At Resilient Minds, LLC, my private practice, I specialize in comprehensive neuropsychological testing, psychological evaluations, and evidence-based therapy. With warmth, compassion and flexibility, I can help you reignite your innate capacity for connection, purpose, and resilience. Reach out today to get started, or visit my website at: www.resilientmindsllc.com.
(971) 252-7493 View (971) 252-7493
Photo of Elaine Kovacs, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elaine Kovacs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
I provide individual therapy to adults (18+), and I am particularly attuned to the needs of older adults and people with chronic illness.
Having both personal and professional experiences with grief, caregiving, and complex family dynamics, I am particularly attuned to clients facing those challenges, no matter their role. Grief can show up in all sorts of ways from a death of a loved one, a loss of a job, a relationship breakup, family estrangement, or a change in one's health. Our complex feelings around grief and loss can manifest as anxiety, despair, and anger, as well as feeling disconnected from one's community and one's self. My hope is to provide a path to explore these feelings, and find some relief during difficult life transitions.
I provide individual therapy to adults (18+), and I am particularly attuned to the needs of older adults and people with chronic illness.
Having both personal and professional experiences with grief, caregiving, and complex family dynamics, I am particularly attuned to clients facing those challenges, no matter their role. Grief can show up in all sorts of ways from a death of a loved one, a loss of a job, a relationship breakup, family estrangement, or a change in one's health. Our complex feelings around grief and loss can manifest as anxiety, despair, and anger, as well as feeling disconnected from one's community and one's self. My hope is to provide a path to explore these feelings, and find some relief during difficult life transitions.
(971) 298-3631 View (971) 298-3631
Photo of Shoshawna Rainwater, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shoshawna Rainwater
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217
If you are caring for a person living with dementia, you are doing some of the most difficult work a human being can do.
Hello, and welcome! Caring for a person experiencing brain changes due to dementia can be an exhausting, isolating, and overwhelming experience. You may be feeling depleted and unsure about how to navigate the challenges that lie ahead. You might also be feeling alone in this journey and that it is difficult for others to comprehend what you're going through.
If you are caring for a person living with dementia, you are doing some of the most difficult work a human being can do.
Hello, and welcome! Caring for a person experiencing brain changes due to dementia can be an exhausting, isolating, and overwhelming experience. You may be feeling depleted and unsure about how to navigate the challenges that lie ahead. You might also be feeling alone in this journey and that it is difficult for others to comprehend what you're going through.
(503) 832-5381 View (503) 832-5381
Photo of Morgan McCoy, MA, QMHP-R
Morgan McCoy
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, QMHP-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corvallis, OR 97330
Are you feeling stuck and need a little help moving in the right direction? Let's work together on achieving your goals! If you are interested in becoming my client, please fill out a New Client Request on our website. I enjoy working with clients around issues related to anxiety, ADHD, school stress, life transitions, relationships, sexual trauma, and communication. I also enjoy working with older adults around issues related to memory loss and grief.
Are you feeling stuck and need a little help moving in the right direction? Let's work together on achieving your goals! If you are interested in becoming my client, please fill out a New Client Request on our website. I enjoy working with clients around issues related to anxiety, ADHD, school stress, life transitions, relationships, sexual trauma, and communication. I also enjoy working with older adults around issues related to memory loss and grief.
(541) 920-5717 View (541) 920-5717
Photo of Libby Schwartz, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Libby Schwartz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with older adults and professionals who are coping with life transitions, grief and loss, relationships, career, or retirement.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. An unexpected event can suddenly throw everything off balance, or many smaller stresses can build up until it seems impossible to cope with them. These places can feel especially demoralizing if they challenge your self-efficacy--your ability to cope with problems on your own. You are not alone. At times, everyone needs help navigating through life's passages. I believe we all have the capacity to find a deeper, more meaningful life. I can work with you to help you regain your footing to continue your journey stronger than you were before.
I enjoy working with older adults and professionals who are coping with life transitions, grief and loss, relationships, career, or retirement.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. An unexpected event can suddenly throw everything off balance, or many smaller stresses can build up until it seems impossible to cope with them. These places can feel especially demoralizing if they challenge your self-efficacy--your ability to cope with problems on your own. You are not alone. At times, everyone needs help navigating through life's passages. I believe we all have the capacity to find a deeper, more meaningful life. I can work with you to help you regain your footing to continue your journey stronger than you were before.
(503) 272-6204 View (503) 272-6204
Photo of Nicole Pilgrim, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Pilgrim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashland, OR 97520  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Humans are capable of accomplishing amazing feats. We all struggle with challenges, many of which present an awesome opportunity for adaptation, introspection, and growth. It is natural to seek support and counsel to navigate these challenges. I am honored to partner with clients in achieving their goals for unearthing new clarity, learning new coping tools, healing past hurts, and generally feeling better. Much of my experience comes from working with grief, chronic illness, chronic pain, dementia, depression, anxiety and life transitions such as death, birth, and divorce.
Humans are capable of accomplishing amazing feats. We all struggle with challenges, many of which present an awesome opportunity for adaptation, introspection, and growth. It is natural to seek support and counsel to navigate these challenges. I am honored to partner with clients in achieving their goals for unearthing new clarity, learning new coping tools, healing past hurts, and generally feeling better. Much of my experience comes from working with grief, chronic illness, chronic pain, dementia, depression, anxiety and life transitions such as death, birth, and divorce.
(541) 625-1403 View (541) 625-1403
Photo of Shelley Gillespie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelley Gillespie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I’m here for you and your experience! I welcome your whole self, including the parts that hurt most, have been marginalized by dominant society, and are navigating change. You may be experiencing grief and loss around the death of a loved one, a memory loss diagnosis, the redefining of a role, grief over the climate, or a harm done to a family member. You may find yourself transitioning into caregiving, stepping away from work, or parenting - including grandparents who are returning to raise children. All of this may be resulting in exacerbated stress, depression, anxiety. I'm looking forward to supporting you.
I’m here for you and your experience! I welcome your whole self, including the parts that hurt most, have been marginalized by dominant society, and are navigating change. You may be experiencing grief and loss around the death of a loved one, a memory loss diagnosis, the redefining of a role, grief over the climate, or a harm done to a family member. You may find yourself transitioning into caregiving, stepping away from work, or parenting - including grandparents who are returning to raise children. All of this may be resulting in exacerbated stress, depression, anxiety. I'm looking forward to supporting you.
(503) 966-2330 View (503) 966-2330
Photo of Dr. Caedy Young Hildebrandt, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Caedy Young Hildebrandt
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
Caedy especially enjoys supporting underserved/marginalized populations including older adults, first generation college students, and trans/gender nonconforming patients.
Dr. Caedy Young Hildebrandt is a licensed psychologist specializing in neuropsychological assessment. Clinically, Dr. Hildebrandt works with adults aged eighteen and older. She works exclusively in assessment, and offers evaluations for neurodevelopmental, neurocognitive, and neurodegenerative conditions, as well as evaluations for gender affirming surgery. Caedy specializes in the assessment of memory impairment, ADHD and executive dysfunction, complex learning disorders, and subjective cognitive decline, and has over ten years of advanced training in working with neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative concerns.
Caedy especially enjoys supporting underserved/marginalized populations including older adults, first generation college students, and trans/gender nonconforming patients.
Dr. Caedy Young Hildebrandt is a licensed psychologist specializing in neuropsychological assessment. Clinically, Dr. Hildebrandt works with adults aged eighteen and older. She works exclusively in assessment, and offers evaluations for neurodevelopmental, neurocognitive, and neurodegenerative conditions, as well as evaluations for gender affirming surgery. Caedy specializes in the assessment of memory impairment, ADHD and executive dysfunction, complex learning disorders, and subjective cognitive decline, and has over ten years of advanced training in working with neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative concerns.
(971) 318-2882 View (971) 318-2882
Photo of Mary Joy, MA, Dipl PW, QMHP, CHT
Mary Joy
MA, Dipl PW, QMHP, CHT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
As a Coach and QMHP with 18 years of community mental health experience, I manage a team working with older adults at Lutheran Community Services.
Sometimes, we want to make changes but struggle with unknown parts of ourselves that seem to stop us. Habits, life long patterns and unconscious beliefs can hold us back from living the life that we long for. It takes time and courage to examine our belief system and reach out for what we really want. As a therapist, I follow the process of each individual. Clients are viewed on a spectrum of health, rather than through a lens of pathology. This approach creates a very curious and creative focus that encourages growth at the client’s own pace.
As a Coach and QMHP with 18 years of community mental health experience, I manage a team working with older adults at Lutheran Community Services.
Sometimes, we want to make changes but struggle with unknown parts of ourselves that seem to stop us. Habits, life long patterns and unconscious beliefs can hold us back from living the life that we long for. It takes time and courage to examine our belief system and reach out for what we really want. As a therapist, I follow the process of each individual. Clients are viewed on a spectrum of health, rather than through a lens of pathology. This approach creates a very curious and creative focus that encourages growth at the client’s own pace.
(503) 966-9610 View (503) 966-9610
Photo of John 'davy' Norris, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John 'davy' Norris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97203  (Online Only)
I have over a decade of experience, both clinical and non-clinical, with older adults and care providers, and lived experience with chronic pain/illness.
Later life can be a particularly difficult time with multiple major life changes and transitions, losses, declining health and ability, and other issues. Likewise, those who provide care to aging loved ones or clients may face their own difficulty adjusting to life transitions, caregiver fatigue and burnout, or loss of identity and social connections. You may feel emotionally distant, numb, sad, stressed, anxious, depressed, etc. Regardless of you're specific situation and goals, you're taking a positive step by reaching out for help. I'm happy that you're here!
I have over a decade of experience, both clinical and non-clinical, with older adults and care providers, and lived experience with chronic pain/illness.
Later life can be a particularly difficult time with multiple major life changes and transitions, losses, declining health and ability, and other issues. Likewise, those who provide care to aging loved ones or clients may face their own difficulty adjusting to life transitions, caregiver fatigue and burnout, or loss of identity and social connections. You may feel emotionally distant, numb, sad, stressed, anxious, depressed, etc. Regardless of you're specific situation and goals, you're taking a positive step by reaching out for help. I'm happy that you're here!
(503) 966-0673 View (503) 966-0673
Photo of Pete Deegan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pete Deegan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401
Waitlist for new clients
I work with tweens, teens, younger adults, and older adults, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and mindfulness-based interventions.
I believe that any person is capable of growth and healing. My approach to the therapeutic process is a collaborative one, in which I work with my clients to find their personal strengths and help them utilize those strengths as they address their own challenges and work toward improving their lives.. I also believe it's important to recognize both the internal and external factors that impact one's mental health, and I see it as my job to help clients recognize what external factors are creating stress, and then work with them to develop strategies to manage, minimize or eliminate those stressors.
I work with tweens, teens, younger adults, and older adults, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and mindfulness-based interventions.
I believe that any person is capable of growth and healing. My approach to the therapeutic process is a collaborative one, in which I work with my clients to find their personal strengths and help them utilize those strengths as they address their own challenges and work toward improving their lives.. I also believe it's important to recognize both the internal and external factors that impact one's mental health, and I see it as my job to help clients recognize what external factors are creating stress, and then work with them to develop strategies to manage, minimize or eliminate those stressors.
(458) 204-0746 View (458) 204-0746
Photo of Amy Ruth Crevola, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Ruth Crevola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Corvallis, OR 97330  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
What Makes My Practice Unique: With years of experience in social work, particularly with older adults and the homeless population, I have a profound understanding of the barriers many face in seeking help.
Hello, I’m Amy, a licensed clinical social worker dedicated to supporting my clients on their journey toward authenticity. I specialize in working with adults of all ages who are grieving losses, or navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, confusion, self-doubt, and overwhelm. In sessions together, my primary focus is to create a safe, compassionate space where you can openly explore your thoughts and feelings. I will meet you where you are in your life journey, listening to your needs, and helping you identify your desires and goals. Together, we will find effective tools and strategies to empower you from the start.
What Makes My Practice Unique: With years of experience in social work, particularly with older adults and the homeless population, I have a profound understanding of the barriers many face in seeking help.
Hello, I’m Amy, a licensed clinical social worker dedicated to supporting my clients on their journey toward authenticity. I specialize in working with adults of all ages who are grieving losses, or navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, confusion, self-doubt, and overwhelm. In sessions together, my primary focus is to create a safe, compassionate space where you can openly explore your thoughts and feelings. I will meet you where you are in your life journey, listening to your needs, and helping you identify your desires and goals. Together, we will find effective tools and strategies to empower you from the start.
(541) 406-3343 View (541) 406-3343
Photo of Antonio Rivera Santiago, MA, Psychologist
Antonio Rivera Santiago
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newberg, OR 97132  (Online Only)
Behavior change is difficult, even when you know the rewards that will follow. I am a licensed psychologist who has been providing psychological assessments and evidence-based treatment for children, teens, and adults, while also providing treatment for anxiety and mood conditions. Do you or a loved one has difficulty at school, work, or with relationships? Are you concerned about your child's social development? Are you wondering if your child has ADHD or a learning disability? Are you concerned about changes with your parent's memory or behavior? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions then he can help.
Behavior change is difficult, even when you know the rewards that will follow. I am a licensed psychologist who has been providing psychological assessments and evidence-based treatment for children, teens, and adults, while also providing treatment for anxiety and mood conditions. Do you or a loved one has difficulty at school, work, or with relationships? Are you concerned about your child's social development? Are you wondering if your child has ADHD or a learning disability? Are you concerned about changes with your parent's memory or behavior? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions then he can help.
(754) 287-7333 View (754) 287-7333
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.