GERIATRIC MENTAL HEALTH
The Geriatric Mental Health Clinic at Southwest Center on Aging provides therapy for emotional and behavioral problems in older adults (55+) who have mental health conditions associated with aging. In addition, the clinic offers expert knowledge of the effect of drugs that may be used to treat these conditions.
Our focus is primarily on the treatment of:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Grief and mourning
- Memory disorders
- Adjustment issues related to aging
MEMORY DISORDERS AND DEMENTIA
Memory disorders and dementia affect more than 20% of the population over age 65. Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, currently afflicts over five million Americans.
Recent medical advances have made the management and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia a reality. Southwest Center on Aging is focus on the evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of patients with memory disorders and dementia. Through early and accurate diagnosis, Southwest Center on Aging determines the most appropriate therapy for each individual patient.
Southwest Center on Aging provides comprehensive assessment, diagnosis and treatment of patients with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and other related memory disorders. Our qualified team of health care professionals is dedicated to ensuring the highest level of care and support for our patients and their caregivers. We are also committed to enhancing the education of patients, caregivers, medical professionals and the public.
EVALUATION AND DIAGNOSIS
Evaluation techniques are available that facilitate early recognition of Alzheimer’s disease and other memory disorders. Advanced technologies, such as Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans may be used in the evaluation of Alzheimer’s disease and degenerative dementia. An evaluation may include:
- Comprehensive interview and physical examination by a board-certified geriatrician.
- Neuropsychiatric and neuropsychological assessment by psychologist and computer-based test.
- Neuroimaging, blood evaluation and neurology evaluation (if recommended)
CAUSES OF DEMENTIA
Memory disorders and dementia may be caused by a variety of different conditions including: degenerative diseases, strokes, depression, infections, or inflammatory conditions, metabolic or toxic conditions and hydrocephalus. Most of these disorders are treatable and, with appropriate interventions, many can be arrested or reversed. Once the underlying cause has been identified, application of disease specific therapies may prevent future decline and in some cases result in significant improvement in memory and thinking.
TREATMENTS
Medication treatments to improve memory and mental functioning are now available for Alzheimer’s disease. Although there is still no cure, these therapies appear to slow the progression of the disorder, especially in patients with mild to moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease.
REFERRALS AND APPOINTMENTS
We welcome physician inquiries, consultations and referrals.
For general information or to schedule an appointment, please Contact Us