Memory Assessment and Dementia Diagnosis

What is a Memory Assessment?

A memory assessment is a comprehensive evaluation of memory, thinking, mood, medication and daily function, carried out to identify the cause of memory changes and reach a diagnosis where possible [1]. At LivingCare's Sheffield clinic it goes far beyond a brief memory screen - it looks at the whole person, not one symptom in isolation.

Memory problems are among the most worrying symptoms an older adult or their family can face. They raise difficult questions about safety, independence and the future, and it is natural to want answers as quickly as possible.

Our memory service takes a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) approach to memory concerns. Alongside formal cognitive testing, the same appointment considers mood, medication, falls risk and general frailty - because in older adults these commonly coexist with, and contribute to, memory difficulties. This is what sets our service apart from a narrower, memory-only clinic. It sits within our wider Geriatric and Memory service in Sheffield.

What Does the Assessment Involve?

Before your appointment, you and your carer or family member will be asked to complete a structured pre-consultation questionnaire. This helps our consultant prepare a detailed, focused assessment before you arrive.

During the 60-minute consultation, the assessment typically includes:

• A detailed review of your symptoms, their pattern, and how they have changed over time
• Formal cognitive assessment using validated clinical tools
• Assessment of mood, including screening for depression and anxiety, which can mimic or worsen memory symptoms
• A review of physical health and relevant medical history
• A thorough medication review - many common medicines can affect memory and cognition
• Assessment of day-to-day function and the ability to manage independently
• Collateral history from a relative or carer, with your agreement - an important part of the assessment, which is why families are strongly encouraged to attend

At the end of the consultation, our consultant will discuss their findings with you, explain the likely diagnosis, and agree a management plan. A comprehensive written report is provided to you and, with your consent, to your GP within 24 hours of the appointment.

What Conditions Might be Identified?

A memory assessment may lead to a diagnosis of one of the more common causes of cognitive change [2]:

• Alzheimer's disease - the most common cause of dementia
• Vascular dementia - caused by reduced blood flow to the brain
• Lewy body dementia - associated with abnormal protein deposits, and often linked with movement symptoms
• Frontotemporal dementia - affecting personality, behaviour and language
• Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) - a stage of cognitive change that does not yet meet the threshold for dementia
• Reversible or contributing causes - including thyroid problems, vitamin deficiencies, depression, sleep disturbance, or medication side effects that are causing or worsening symptoms

Importantly, not all memory assessments result in a dementia diagnosis. Some changes have a reversible or treatable cause, and identifying one - or ruling dementia out - is itself a valuable and often reassuring outcome [1].

Follow-Up After Your Assessment

Where a diagnosis is made, our consultant will discuss treatment options, risk reduction, safety, driving, support services and follow-up [1]. A structured six-monthly review can be arranged for patients on a treatment pathway, tracking treatment response, side effects, carer burden and safety over time.

Where further investigation is needed - such as brain imaging or blood tests - our team will explain what is required and coordinate onward referral where appropriate. A diagnosis is reached at the appointment in many cases, but not all; some situations need these extra checks before anything is confirmed.

Risks and Considerations

The memory assessment itself is non-invasive and low risk. Some patients feel anxious about what the assessment might reveal. If that is you, please say so at the start of the appointment - our consultant will take as much time as needed to explain the findings clearly and sensitively.

Why Choose LivingCare for Memory Assessment in Sheffield

LivingCare offers fast, consultant-led memory assessment at Canon Medical Arena in Sheffield - exceptional care, without the wait. No GP referral needed, self-pay.

You or a family member can self-refer directly, and appointments are usually arranged quickly. Our CGA approach means memory is never assessed in isolation: mood, medication, mobility and frailty are all considered together, so nothing that might be affecting cognition is missed. And because we know how much worry sits behind that first call, we take a calm, measured and human approach at every step.

Home visits are available across Sheffield and the surrounding area for patients who find it difficult to attend the clinic.

Book your memory assessment in Sheffield - or call to talk it through first.

References

1. NICE - Dementia: assessment, management and support for people living with dementia and their carers (NG97): https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng97
2. NHS - Dementia: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dementia/