Dementia
Dementia refers to a group of conditions in which there is a progressive decline in memory and other cognitive functions. Dementia is not a disease; it is a symptom of an underlying brain disorder. There are many possible causes for dementia, some of which can be eliminated with proper diagnosis and treatment, particularly if the cause is found promptly. Other forms of dementia may be managed with specific treatments.
Because there are many possible causes, an evaluation by a neurologist with expertise in this area should be sought as soon as possible. This evaluation will consist of a detailed history from the patient and family, a review of other medical problems and medications, and a thorough examination. Based on these factors, a comprehensive series of tests designed to characterize the specific symptoms and identify possible causes may be necessary. When a specific diagnosis is made, a treatment plan will be recommended.
Some of the specific conditions responsible for symptoms of dementia include:
Albany Med Advantage
The Neurosciences Institute at Albany Medical Center provides a comprehensive range of support services to assist patients and families who are dealing with the effects of neurological memory disorders caused by age-related dementias. The multidisciplinary team approach of the Neurosciences Institute is critical to providing the most accurate diagnostic assessments, treatment options for patients, and clinical research programs all geared toward the long-term care of dementia.
A major step toward achieving the goal of the Neurosciences Institute was the establishment of The Neurosciences Advanced Imaging Research Center, a partnership between General Electric Global Research Center and Albany Medical Center’s Neurosciences Institute. The purpose of the Center is to utilize technology to identify causes of neurodegenerative disease, evaluate therapeutic interventions, and measure the effectiveness of drugs. In the long term, physicians hope to predict people at risk for these diseases and institute therapies before the onset of the disease.
