Diagnosing and Treating Alzheimers, Dementia and Depression
Physicians at The Senior Cognitive Evaluation Program at Little Company can diagnose and treat Alzheimer's as well as other mental conditions that affect seniors, such as other forms of senile dementia and depression.
Alzheimer's disease, a degenerative brain disorder that affects an estimated 4 million people in the United States, is the most common cause of dementia in seniors. Alzheimer's affects the parts of the brain that control thought, memory, and language. The disease begins slowly. At first, the only symptom may be mild forgetfulness. People with Alzheimer's may have trouble remembering recent events, activities, or the names of familiar people or things.
Seniors also commonly suffer from depression possibly due to boredom and loneliness. But it is important to get a medical evaluation to rule out Alzheimer's and other forms of senile dementia that can also cause depression.
"Family members come to our evaluation center and say, my dad just isn't himself these days," says Michael Thomas, D.O., director of the Senior Cognitive Evaluation Program, "It could be just mild depression that can be easily treated through exercise, nutrition and social activities, but it can also be something more substantial and it's important to get the correct diagnosis and proper treatment."
Through this program, elderly patients can get the diagnosis and treatment they need and family members and caregivers will find reassurance and support.
North Pavilion, Main Floor (in Outpatient Services)
708.229.5625
