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 Memory Disorders ClinicMemory disorders and dementia affect more than 20% of the population over age 65. Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia, currently afflicts over four million Americans.
The Memory Disorders Clinic at The Ohio State University Medical Center provides comprehensive assessment, diagnosis and treatment of patients with Alzheimer's disease, dementia and other related memory disorders. Our qualified team of health care professionals is dedicated to ensuring the highest level of care and support for our patients and their caregivers. We are also committed to enhancing the education of patients, caregivers, medical professionals and the public. The mission of the Memory Disorders Clinic also includes conducting research in improving the diagnosis and eventual cure of these disorders. The generous contributions and memorials, both large and small, from individuals and families to our Alzheimer's Disease Research Fund in Neurology (614-293-3736) have gone a long way in supporting our important research projects. In addition, our brain banking project (from autopsies) has allowed us to examine brains to advance our understanding of dementing conditions. Thus far, the research has provided substantial benefits to local Ohio patients and families that participate in these studies and has contributed important knowledge regarding Alzheimer's disease and other dementing conditions to the research community and the world. Our team includes board-certified faculty in the departments of neurology and psychiatry, a registered nurse, a social worker, research coordinators and a consulting clinical neuropsychologist. This multi-disciplinary team ensures the most comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for the patient. Evaluation and Diagnosis Evaluation techniques are available that facilitate early recognition of Alzheimer's disease and other memory disorders. Advanced technologies, such as single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), are used at the Memory Disorders Clinic in the evaluation of Alzheimer's disease and degenerative dementias. Our research in ultra high field MRI and functional MRI may aide in this process.An evaluation at the Memory Disorders Clinic consists of the following steps:
Treatment Memory disorders and dementia are caused by a variety of different conditions including: degenerative diseases, strokes, depression, metabolic or toxic conditions and hydrocephalus. Most of these disorders are treatable and, with appropriate interventions, many can be arrested or reversed. Once the underlying cause has been identified, application of disease specific therapies may prevent future decline and in some cases result in significant improvement in memory and thinking. Cognitive Treatments Medication treatments to improve memory and mental functioning are now available for Alzheimer's disease. Although there is still no cure, these therapies appear to slow the progression of the disorder, especially in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease.As a leading research institution, The Ohio State University Medical Center is actively involved in a variety of clinical research trials Eligible patients with Alzheimer's disease who participate in these trials may benefit from promising investigational medication treatments. Research is also ongoing into the early diagnosis of dementia. Behavioral Treatments Many patients with dementia may develop behavioral disturbances, including agitation, depression, sleep disturbances, restlessness, anxiety, false beliefs and hallucinations. Counseling Services The Memory Disorders Clinic provides education and information to patients and their caregivers concerning diagnosis, neurologic illness, behavioral symptoms and patient care. We believe counseling helps patients and caregivers learn to live with the effects of neurologic illness. Additionally, the Memory Disorders Clinic provides linkage to community resources and case planning.
The Memory Disorders Clinic welcomes physician inquiries, consultations and referrals. Our staff will maintain regular and close communication with the referring physician throughout the evaluation and treatment process. Written summaries of the patient's condition, progress and treatment plan will be sent to the referring physician. Patients will return to their family or referring physician for their primary care.
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The Memory Disorders Clinic
The Memory Disorders Clinic has found that environmental and behavioral modification techniques can help lessen or eliminate these disturbances. In addition, most of these conditions can be treated with small doses of appropriate behavior-specific medications.