It’s frightening when you are losing your memory or having difficulty thinking. But you don’t have to go through it alone.
Emory’s cognitive neurology program specializes in diagnosing many memory diseases and disorders.
Memory Disorders
Specialized Care for Memory Disorders
Why Choose Emory Healthcare?
Emory Healthcare is one of a few specialized centers worldwide treating brain disorders and diseases. Our cognitive neurology program specializes in diagnosing and managing memory loss and cognitive decline. We provide complete care for patients and families dealing with these conditions.
We are an affiliate of the Goizueta Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (ADRC). The ADRC is a national network that provides research and education about the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. The Emory ADRC is the only comprehensive Alzheimer’s disease program in Georgia and one of only a few in the southern United States.
Family-Centered Care for Memory Disorders
Our team of memory loss specialists includes physicians, nurses, researchers and others trained to help manage changes in behavior over time.
We provide lifetime care for a wide range of memory diseases and disorders, including:
- Mild cognitive impairment
- Vascular dementia
Symptoms of Memory Loss
Often, family members or close friends are the first to notice signs of a memory disorder. Symptoms include:
- Confusion with time and place
- Difficulty planning an outing or solving problems
- Difficulty with recalling words
- Frequently misplacing things
- Problems keeping up with a conversation
- Repetitious questions or comments
- Short-term memory loss
- Struggling with familiar tasks at home or work
- Trouble recalling appointments or managing checks or bills
- Trouble understanding visual information (like reading or road signs)
Becoming a Patient
If you or a loved one experiences frequent memory loss symptoms, schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor. Your doctor can test your memory and thinking abilities.
A referral from your primary care doctor is required before we can see you or your loved one. Please see our cognitive neurology program's Process for New Patients.
Diagnosing Memory Disorders
Before treatment can begin, we will perform various tests to diagnose your condition. These tests may include:
- Blood tests
- Brain scan (CT, PET or MRI)
- Genetic testing
- Lumbar puncture (spinal tap) for spinal fluid analysis
- Neurological assessments
- Screening test of memory and other intellectual abilities
Resources for Those Living with Memory Loss
You don’t have to face memory loss alone. Our specialists care not only for patients, but for their caregivers as well.
We’ve assembled a team of people with the caring and expert knowledge to help you manage each step of your journey. Read more about the resources Emory Healthcare offers.
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You’re not alone when facing a memory disorder. In addition to our doctors and nurses, we have a team of licensed social workers who are experts in their field.
Our social workers provide short-term therapy sessions for patients and their caregivers. They will also direct you to other resources you need.
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You and your loved ones may find comfort in speaking with others who are going through similar situations. We can connect you to a variety of educational, support and therapy groups. You may also want to consider joining a local community group.
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An advance directive helps you to provide directions regarding your health care. You can identify who you wish to make your medical decisions when you cannot. You do not need an attorney or a notary to complete this document.
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An elder law attorney specializes in financial and care planning as you age. They help with issues like asset protection, health care, long-term care planning, financial powers of attorney, guardianship, conservatorship, and Medicare and Medicaid.
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Under a guardianship, a probate court will appoint someone to make decisions for a person who cannot or communicate responsible decisions concerning their health or safety. Conservatorship is similar but addresses finances only.
Petitioning for guardianship and conservatorship can take several months.
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Medicare is a health care benefit the federal government provides for most U.S. citizens ages 65 and older and some individuals who have been disabled for over two years.
Georgia Medicaid is a health care benefit provided by the state. There are many Medicaid programs in Georgia. They require the recipient to have low income and savings. The Georgia-based Community Care Services Program (CCSP), can help pay for companion care and adult day programs.
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Aging life care managers help families navigate health care decisions, including if or when to relocate to a residential facility. They also help coordinate medical care and step in as the “eyes and ears” for family members who live far away or cannot see their loved one often.
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When your loved one needs additional assistance, you may want to consider an adult day program. These programs are more structured and supervised than traditional senior center programs. Learn more about adult day programs.
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Companion care by caregivers or sitters assists with daily living activities and light housekeeping. It is generally not covered by Medicare or other health insurance plans (sometimes, a private long-term care policy may cover companion care). Medicare does not cover home care or companion care.
Some families can successfully provide care at home. Some may need to place their relatives under the care of others to ensure their safety.
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If you have concerns about your loved one’s safety while driving, and they aren’t yet ready to stop driving, talk with your health care provider.
Find an Emory Doctor
Emory Healthcare doctors provide specialized treatment and research the latest advancements.
Explore our Network
To expand your options, explore our network of providers throughout Atlanta and the surrounding counties.
Make an Appointment with Emory Neurology & Neurosurgery
Create a MyChart account to schedule online.
For the neurology department, call 404-778-3444.
For the neurosurgery department, call 404-778-5770.
Make an Appointment with Emory Neurology & Neurosurgery
Create a MyChart account to schedule online.
For the neurology department, call 404-778-3444.
For the neurosurgery department, call 404-778-5770.