I have concerns about my memory
We understand that experiencing difficulties with your memory can be unsettling, with dementia often being a diagnosis that has a degree of fear and stigma attached to it in our society.
People can be hesitant to talk about their concerns with loved ones and may have been unsure for some time about what is causing their problems.
These can range from everyday events like forgetting someone's name or having difficulty remembering some steps in a familiar recipe. For some people there are more significant issues like finances or being able to navigate their local community.
It is important to know that not all problems with memory are due to dementia.
A range of factors may impact our memory & thinking which, after careful exploration, may have more than one solution and more than one cause.
There are strategies and therapies that can help you manage your situation, even if a diagnosis of dementia is not applicable to you.
What can memory problems mean for me?
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Although the basic structure and function of the brain of many people is the same, the function of the brain and mind will vary.
Memory forms only one of these functions.
Other important functions of the mind and brain including language, problem solving, judgement and social functioning
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'Cognition' is therefore able to be defined as:
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"the mental action or process of acquiring knowledge and understanding through thought, experience, and the senses."
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As we all have unique experiences in life, with many different environments and social connections, understanding what impact cognitive problems can have will be very individual. This is why we take the time to understand the whole person and keep the 'self' at the core of our approach.
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What should I do if I have concerns about my cognition or memory?
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There can be many causes of cognitive impairment and memory issues.
Talking to family can be daunting but is often very helpful and usually people find that it can be a relief to share their concerns.
It is important that you seek advice from a qualified, AHPRA registered health professional to discuss your concerns and, where necessary, provide you a comprehensive assessment.
If you would like to speak to us about your situation, you can arrange your assessment by clicking here.
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To read about our values and get to know more about Dr Stephanie Daly, click here
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What can be done for me if I have dementia?
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There are now many things that can be done to support people who have memory impairment and dementia, some of these can be managed yourself and others will need the support of other allied health professionals, we know that the earlier you receive your diagnosis the better the outcomes in terms of improving quality of life.
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Some people will find benefit from medication, of which there are different types. Currently the ones available are designed to improve memory function but unfortunately do not alter the underlying disease process.
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There are newer medications currently in development that are hoping to alter the presence of Amyloid Plaques (a build up of protein in the brain linked to some dementia types).
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Timely Diagnosis
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In many countries around the world a diagnosis of dementia can take some time to be obtained - this is for a number of reasons - but includes the stigma surrounding the disease, misconception that little can be done and lack of awareness in the wider community and within healthcare settings.
At Sensus Cognition our core belief is to improve the access to a timely diagnosis, in a friendly local clinic where you can spend time talking to a professional about your concerns.
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