Memory and Aging

Why choose us for memory disorder care?

BJC HealthCare works with WashU Medicine Physicians and providers across the region to deliver extraordinary care. We believe in comprehensive, expert care for all our patients. We use advanced testing and treatments to help increase your quality of life.

We offer:

• Research focus: Barnes-Jewish Hospital and WashU Medicine are national leaders in Alzheimer's treatment and research. Our studies into the causes, symptoms, and onset of Alzheimer’s disease translate into more successful treatments for our patients—and hope for an eventual cure.
• Multispecialty team: We offer a multidisciplinary approach to care, bringing together a team of experts to treat your individual needs safely and effectively.
• Personalized care: Our personalized approach to care ensures that your physical, emotional, and spiritual needs are met in the most coordinated, compassionate manner possible.
• Leading-edge treatments: We are the first to offer many of the most cutting-edge drugs available for the treatment of memory disorders, including those approved by the FDA and those approved for clinical trial.

Diagnostic testing for memory disorders

Our specialists at the Memory Diagnostic Center and BJC Medical Group evaluate people who may have a memory disorder, as well those who have problems with thinking, language, or behavior. There is no single test to diagnose dementia. We may work to diagnose memory disorders by:

• Assessing memory and thinking skills with paper and pencil tests
• Evaluating your health history
• Giving a complete physical and neurological exam
• Ordering additional testing, as needed

We aim to finish your initial evaluation during one appointment. You will be seen by a full team, including a physician, trained nurse practitioner, and neuropsychologist, all working together to find an accurate diagnosis and develop a treatment plan. For the first appointment, we ask that you bring another person with you, such as a spouse, friend, or caregiver, who can help answer questions.

Early detection of dementia allows you to begin therapy designed to slow the progression of memory loss and cognitive decline. Although there is no cure for most types of dementia, medications may improve symptoms and enhance quality of life.

Memory disorders we treat

Memory disorders occur when changes in your brain affect your ability to store or bring up memories. These conditions can also affect your cognitive skills, problem-solving, and language. Some people may also use the term dementia, which refers to memory loss and cognitive decline that interferes with your daily life.

The most common cause of dementia in older people is Alzheimer’s disease, but there are other brain disorders that can also cause dementia.

Types of memory disorders include:

• Alzheimer’s disease
• Vascular dementia
• Frontotemporal dementia
• Lewy body disease
• Mild cognitive impairment
• Normal pressure hydrocephalus
• Progressive supranuclear palsy