Memory & Dementia Care

Normal aging or something more?

Occasionally forgetting a name or where you put your keys is a normal part of aging. Dementia is different: it involves ongoing memory and thinking changes that interfere with daily life — such as trouble managing finances, getting lost in familiar places, repeating questions, or struggling with familiar tasks. Between normal aging and dementia is a stage called mild cognitive impairment (MCI), where changes are noticeable but don't yet interfere much with daily life; some people with MCI stay stable, while others go on to develop dementia, which is why follow-up matters. It's worth scheduling an evaluation if memory or thinking changes are new, worsening, or affecting everyday life or safety — in part because some causes of memory problems are treatable and even reversible, including certain vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, medication effects, and depression.

Types of dementia

Dementia is an umbrella term for several conditions. Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause, marked by gradual problems with memory and thinking. Vascular dementia results from reduced blood flow to the brain, often after strokes, and can appear alongside Alzheimer's. Lewy body dementia can cause changes in alertness, visual hallucinations, and movement symptoms similar to Parkinson's. Frontotemporal dementia tends to affect younger adults and often shows up first as changes in personality, behavior, or language rather than memory. Identifying which type is involved helps guide treatment and planning.

What an evaluation involves, and how we help

Your neurologist will review the history — often with input from a family member — and perform an exam. The evaluation may include cognitive testing to assess memory and thinking, blood tests to check for reversible causes, and brain imaging such as an MRI. A diagnosis opens the door to help: depending on the cause, treatment may include medications, management of other health conditions, and strategies to support daily function and safety. Just as important, we help connect families with support and planning resources — including Saint Joseph Health System's PACE program and senior living and care services — so you don't have to navigate the road ahead alone. Existing patients and caregivers can message the team through MyChart.