Memory Clinic
Specialist cognitive assessment for memory concerns. Our comprehensive evaluation includes neuropsychological testing, brain imaging referrals, and expert clinical review.
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Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease Assessment at Our Memory Clinic
Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a group of conditions that affect memory, thinking, behaviour and daily functioning. It is not a normal part of ageing, and it can have many different causes.
At our Memory Clinic, assessments are led by our expert specialist in memory and cognitive disorders, with extensive experience in diagnosing all types of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. Using careful clinical assessment and modern diagnostic tools, we help patients and families understand what is happening and what can be done.
What Is Dementia?
Dementia describes a syndrome, not a single disease. It occurs when changes in the brain lead to difficulties with memory, reasoning, language, judgement or behaviour that interfere with everyday life.
Symptoms of dementia may include:
- •Memory loss affecting daily activities
- •Difficulty with language or communication
- •Problems with planning or decision-making
- •Changes in personality, mood or behaviour
- •Disorientation or confusion
Dementia can develop gradually or more suddenly, depending on the underlying cause. Importantly, some causes of dementia-like symptoms are treatable or reversible, which is why specialist assessment is essential.
Different Types of Dementia
There are several different types of dementia, each with distinct features. Accurate diagnosis is crucial, as management and treatment vary.
Alzheimer's Dementia
The most common cause of dementia. It typically begins with problems remembering recent events and progresses gradually. It is associated with abnormal protein build-up in the brain.
Vascular Dementia
Caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often due to strokes or small vessel disease. Symptoms may include slowed thinking, poor concentration and difficulties with planning. Onset can be sudden or stepwise.
Dementia with Lewy Bodies
This type can cause fluctuating cognition, visual hallucinations, sleep disturbance and Parkinson-like symptoms such as stiffness or tremor.
Frontotemporal Dementia
Often affects behaviour, personality or language before memory. It tends to occur at a younger age and may initially be mistaken for psychiatric or stress-related conditions.
Mixed Dementia
Many people have more than one type of dementia, most commonly Alzheimer's disease combined with vascular dementia.
Assessment by Our Expert Memory Specialist
Diagnosing dementia and determining its type requires expertise. All patients at our Memory Clinic are assessed by our expert specialist, who is experienced in distinguishing between:
Our expert specialist takes time to understand everyone's symptoms, medical background and daily challenges, ensuring a clear and accurate diagnosis.
How We Diagnose Dementia
There is no single test for dementia. Diagnosis involves bringing together multiple sources of information, including:
- •Detailed clinical history from the patient and family
- •Specialist cognitive testing
- •Physical and neurological examination
- •Blood tests to identify reversible causes
- •Brain imaging
Where appropriate, we also use advanced diagnostic tools to increase accuracy, particularly in early or complex cases.
Modern Advances in Dementia Diagnosis
Amyloid PET Scanning
Amyloid PET scans can identify amyloid protein deposits in the brain, helping to confirm or exclude Alzheimer's disease as the cause of dementia.
Blood Biomarkers (Including p-tau217)
New blood tests can detect biological markers associated with Alzheimer's disease. These tests help:
- •Support earlier and more confident diagnosis
- •Distinguish Alzheimer's from other dementias
- •Guide treatment discussions and planning
Our expert specialist will advise whether these investigations are suitable for you.
Why Early and Accurate Diagnosis Matters
With new disease-modifying Alzheimer's treatments now emerging, identifying the type and stage of dementia is more important than ever.
Early Diagnosis Allows
- • Consideration of new treatment options where appropriate
- • Tailored symptom management
- • Access to specialist support and follow-up
- • Planning for the future with clarity and confidence
Support for Patients & Families
- • Clear, honest explanations in plain language
- • Support for families and carers
- • Guidance on lifestyle, safety and planning ahead
- • Ongoing specialist follow-up
Even when disease-modifying treatments are not suitable, early diagnosis improves quality of life and support. We believe that no one should navigate dementia without expert guidance.
When Should I See a Memory Specialist?
You should consider specialist assessment if you notice:
Early assessment often provides reassurance and when needed, timely access to support and treatment.
Why Choose Our Memory Clinic?
Book a Memory Assessment
Self-referrals welcome. GP referrals also accepted. Call 020 7499 1991 or book online.
“Dementia is not a diagnosis anyone wants to hear, but an early and accurate assessment changes everything. It opens the door to treatment options, specialist support, and the ability to plan ahead with clarity. Many of the patients I see are relieved simply to have answers after months of uncertainty.
Sources & References
- NICE recommends that patients with suspected cognitive decline should receive a structured clinical assessment including standardised cognitive tests and appropriate brain imaging. — NICE Guideline NG97 — Dementia: Assessment, Management and Support[Link]
Prof Arshad Rather
Consultant Geriatrician and General Physician • GMC 6035767
"Prof Rather is a distinguished consultant geriatrician and general physician, renowned for his comprehensive expertise in managing complex medical conditions in older adults. As the head of the department of geriatric medicine at University College London Hospitals (UCLH) and an honorary clinical associate professor at UCL Medical School, Prof Rather brings over a decade of consultant experience to his patients."
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Memory Assessment
From £2,499Common Questions
Q.Is dementia the same as Alzheimer's disease?
No. Alzheimer's disease is one cause of dementia, but there are several different types including vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. Accurate diagnosis is essential because management and treatment vary between types.
Q.Can dementia be treated?
Some symptoms can be treated, and new disease-modifying treatments for Alzheimer's disease are emerging. Management depends on the type of dementia diagnosed. Early and accurate diagnosis allows consideration of the widest range of options.
Q.Do I need a referral?
No. Self-referrals are welcome at our Memory Clinic. GP referrals are also accepted.
Q.Will my family be involved?
With your consent, family input is encouraged and often very helpful in the assessment process. A diagnosis of dementia affects the whole family, and we provide support and guidance for carers as well as patients.
Q.What diagnostic tools do you use?
We use a combination of detailed clinical history, specialist cognitive testing, physical and neurological examination, blood tests, and brain imaging. Where appropriate, we also offer advanced diagnostics including amyloid PET scanning and blood biomarkers such as p-tau217.
Q.How long does an assessment take?
A comprehensive memory assessment typically takes 2-3 hours. This allows time for thorough clinical history, cognitive testing, examination, and discussion of findings and next steps.
