Assessment

Will anything happen before an assessment date is offered?

The health professional will check to see if a brain scan has been completed, if not, this may be requested. You may also be asked to participate in giving a blood sample, this is to undertake blood-screening, which may help formulate a diagnosis and rule out treatable physical health causes for your memory problem.

Brain Scan

A CT (computerised tomography) scan, also known as a CAT scan, uses x-rays and a computer to identify changes in the brain. For more information on what to expect please visit: CT scan - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan uses magnetic fields and radio waves to identify changes in the brain. For more information on what to expect please visit: MRI scan - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

ECG

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is used to check heart rhythm and electrical signals. An ECG helps to indicate whether it is suitable for an individual to take medications that may be offered to support them with their memory problems. For more information on what to expect visit: Electrocardiogram (ECG) - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Is there anything that can help whilst waiting for an assessment?

“What’s good for the heart is good for the brain.” Try to stay active, eat a healthy balanced diet, drink enough water, reduce stress levels, and keep engaged in social activities and hobbies.

Further information can be found on the following websites:

What will happen at the assessment?

What to expect at the assessment

Please ensure the following items are brought to the first appointment with the Memory Assessment Service:

Any spectacles/ glasses, if necessary.
Any hearing aid/s, if necessary.
A list of current medication.
Where possible, bring a person for support, such as a friend, family member or carer.

At the appointment, a health professional will explain the process and they will check that the individual is happy to continue with the assessment. The health professional will also discuss an individual's consent to assess and treat. Those invited for an assessment are encouraged to attend with a friend or family member.

An initial assessment will be completed by a Memory Service Professional, normally a nurse; it is anticipated that the assessment will take place in a clinic, but it can be completed at your home. Alternative options can be made available if this is not suitable. The health professional will take a comprehensive personal, medical and mental health history and complete a cognitive screening tool.

The assessment will take approximately 60-90 minutes and whilst this may seem like a long time, it will help the health professional to understand the severity of the memory or other cognitive difficulties being experienced and any support needs they may have.

Following this assessment, and following reviewing all appropriate physical health results, you may be invited for a diagnostic appointment with a Doctor or Advanced Nurse Practitioner at a later date.