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Memory loss alone doesn’t mean a person has dementia. ��Ƭ���� doctors diagnose dementia only if two or more brain functions, such as memory and judgment, are impaired enough to interfere with a person’s daily life. Our doctors can skillfully diagnose all forms of dementia and rule out conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as Lyme disease.��

To diagnose dementia, a doctor asks about symptoms, performs a physical exam, obtains thorough medical and family histories, and talks with family members to get a complete picture of how symptoms are affecting daily life. Such an evaluation can provide a basis for comparison with future assessments in someone who has a family history of dementia.��

Other diagnostic tools may include the following.

Neurological Evaluation

A neurologist assesses use of language, vision, spatial orientation, ability to walk, reflexes, and senses. The doctor may ask the person to name objects, follow verbal and written commands, write a sentence, or draw a complex shape. The person may be asked to walk a short distance to determine if there are any gait problems, which can signal the Parkinson-like symptoms of Lewy body dementia or other conditions with similar symptoms, such as normal pressure hydrocephalus.��

Psychiatric Evaluation

In a psychiatric evaluation, a doctor checks cognitive function—such as memory, the ability to concentrate, and orientation to time and place—and asks about how it affects daily activities. A doctor may also ask questions about behavior and mood, as well as any medications the person is taking; these can also contribute to memory problems or confusion.

Psychometric Testing

Psychometric tests measure a person’s mental abilities and difficulties, including the accuracy and speed of processes such as making decisions, paying attention, using language, planning, organizing, remembering details, and solving problems. A neuropsychologist may administer a pencil-and-paper worksheet as part of this evaluation.��

MRI Scans

An MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create two- or three-dimensional images of organs and tissues in the body. ��Ƭ���� doctors may order this test to view the brain and rule out other causes of cognitive impairment, such as tumors.��

PET Scans

A PET scan uses small amounts of radioactive material combined with glucose (sugar), called a tracer, in creating a map of how well the brain is working. The tracer is injected into a vein, where it travels through the bloodstream and reaches the brain. Because the brain makes use of glucose as a fuel, a PET scan can create a detailed map showing areas of activity and inactivity—that is, where the brain is metabolizing the glucose and where it isn’t. This map gives the doctor a good idea of how well all parts of the brain are working.��

��Ƭ���� doctors use the results of these tests to customize a treatment plan, with the goal of slowing the progression of dementia symptoms and supporting families throughout the course of diagnosis and treatment.