Question 1

What types of cognitive and memory disorders does OhioHealth treat?

Accepted Answer

OhioHealth evaluates and treats a wide range of cognitive and memory conditions, including mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer’s disease, Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal dementia, Parkinson’s disease dementia and rare or complex neurodegenerative conditions.

Question 2

What is cognitive neurology?

Accepted Answer

Cognitive neurology focuses on conditions that affect memory, thinking, language, behavior and problem‑solving. OhioHealth cognitive neurologists specialize in diagnosing and treating dementia and other neurodegenerative disorders.

Question 3

How does OhioHealth evaluate memory loss or dementia?

Accepted Answer

OhioHealth uses a methodical, in‑depth and personalized assessment process designed to tease apart subtle symptoms and complex signs of dementia. Evaluations are individualized and focused on understanding how symptoms affect daily life.

Question 4

What is included in a dementia or memory assessment?

Accepted Answer

A dementia assessment may include:

A cognitive neurology evaluation with a cognitive neurologist
A comprehensive dementia evaluation
Language and communication evaluation
Neuropsychological testing to assess memory, thinking and behavior

Not every patient needs every test — care is tailored to the individual.

Question 5

What tests are used to diagnose dementia?

Accepted Answer

Testing may include blood work to rule out reversible causes of memory loss, such as vitamin deficiencies or thyroid disease. Imaging may include MRI to assess brain structure or rule out stroke or tumors, and FDG PET scans to improve diagnostic accuracy for Alzheimer’s disease or frontotemporal dementia when appropriate.

Question 6

Why does OhioHealth spend so much time on diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Many dementia and memory conditions share symptoms. OhioHealth neurologists take a step‑by‑step approach to avoid misdiagnosis, understand testing results fully and provide patients and families with clarity and confidence.

Question 7

How are families involved in the evaluation process?

Accepted Answer

Families play an important role. Providers often speak with loved ones to better understand behavior changes at home, work or in social settings — information that helps improve diagnostic accuracy and care planning.

Question 8

What treatments are available for dementia and neurodegenerative conditions?

Accepted Answer

Treatment is individualized and may include advanced medications, symptom management strategies, rehabilitative care such as speech or physical therapy and coordinated care with a patient’s primary care provider.

Question 9

Does OhioHealth provide ongoing support after diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Patients may continue to see their cognitive neurologist as needed and have access to social work support, community resources and connections to support groups for patients and caregivers.

Question 10

What are the warning signs of dementia?

Accepted Answer

Possible warning signs include memory loss that disrupts daily life, asking the same questions repeatedly, getting lost in familiar places, difficulty following directions, confusion about time or place and changes in self‑care or safety.

Question 11

When should someone seek medical care for memory concerns?

Accepted Answer

If memory or thinking changes are noticeable, progressive or affecting daily activities, it’s important to talk with a healthcare provider. Earlier evaluation helps identify causes and allows for better planning and support.

Question 12

How do I get started with cognitive or memory care at OhioHealth?

Accepted Answer

Patients can talk with their primary care provider about referral options or explore OhioHealth cognitive neurology services to find specialized care that fits their needs.

Cognitive and
Memory Disorders

Here when memory changes raise questions

Types of primary cognitive conditions we treat

We also treat secondary cognitive dysfunction

Find a cognitive specialist

Specialized care for older adults

Education and support beyond appointments

Nationally recognized neuroscience care at OhioHealth

Frequently asked questions about cognitive and memory disorders

Cognitive andMemory Disorders