Memory
Mercy's Memory Clinic evaluates and treats people exhibiting signs of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and other degenerative brain disorders.
This clinic's purpose is to help patients and their families compensate for cognitive and behavior changes, allowing those with memory disorders to stay in their homes as long as possible.
A physician’s referral to the clinic is necessary. Following the patient evaluation, a conference is held with the patient, family members, clinic team and other referral sources as appropriate.
Neurologist Larry Krain, MD, is the medical director. He reviews the diagnostic workup, coordinates the plan of care and medication management, and, if requested by the referring physician, initiates a full neurological evaluation. Colleen Mohr, ARNP, provides the follow-up visits for patients in the clinic.
Memory Clinic Team:
- Access nurse: Helps family members deal with personality and behavioral changes. Assesses cognitive skills and helps the patient and family develop compensatory strategies.
- Neuropsychologist: Performs neuropsychological testing, assists in diagnosis, and assesses competency.
- Social worker: Assesses the patient’s financial, family and community resources, and helps the family access services such as adult day programs, Social Security, Meals on Wheels, and alternative placement options.
- Program coordinator: Coordinates the clinic and acts as the liaison between the family and the clinic team.
All the above services are not indicated for every patient. The combination utilized depends on patient and family needs. Follow-up clinic visits take place about every six months, if indicated. The patient’s abilities are reassessed and assistance is provided to the family as appropriate.
