Older Adult Dementia Evaluation in Ann Arbor
When an older parent starts repeating questions, misplacing things, or struggling with tasks that used to be easy, families face a hard question. Is this normal aging, or is it something more. An older adult dementia evaluation in Ann Arbor is how you get a clear, objective answer. AAPT provides these evaluations for older adults and their families across Southeast Michigan, with no waitlist, so you are not waiting months while the worry grows.
Normal aging, mild cognitive impairment, or dementia
Not every memory change is dementia. Some cognitive changes occur as a normal part of aging. But mild cognitive impairment or dementia are more advanced classifications of cognitive change. In the American Academy of Neurology practice guideline, Petersen and colleagues (2018) describe mild cognitive impairment as a distinct stage of cognitive change that can be identified and monitored over time, and they note that some contributors to cognitive decline are treatable. Standardized testing is the gold standard for measuring cognitive change.
What the evaluation looks at
We measure memory, attention, language, visuospatial skills, and executive functioning, and compare the results to same-age peers. These results produce a “cognitive profile” to reveal what domains of memory and thinking are measuring within expectation or below expectation. We combine these quantitative results with a clinical interview, a health and medication history, and input from a family member who knows the person well. We also evaluate for reversible contributors like depression, medication effects, sleep problems, and thyroid or vitamin issues, in coordination with the person's physician. The goal is diagnostic clarification and treatment planning.
Why a baseline matters
Even when the results are reassuring (measuring within the expected range), a baseline neuropsychological exam provides a reliable, personalized assessment against which future comparisons can be made. If there is decline, early identification opens doors. It may allow for treatments, compensatory interventions, safety planning at home, or legal and financial planning.
A process built for older adults and families
Our older adult neuropsychological evaluations begin with a short telehealth consultation, a clinical interview of the patient and family, then in-person testing paced appropriately for an older adult. A feedback session is scheduled to review the findings and treatment recommendations. We recommend supportive family involvement throughout the process.
No waitlist, quick turnaround
We do not have waitlists. The interview and the testing are usually completed on two separate days within the same week, and can often be done on the same day. You get your written report within four weeks of testing. If you need it faster, reach out and we will try to accommodate an expedited timeline. You can check current availability whenever you are ready.
Serving Ann Arbor and Southeast Michigan
We are based in Ann Arbor and see older adults and their families from across Southeast Michigan, including Ypsilanti, Saline, Dexter, Chelsea, and the surrounding Washtenaw County communities. For primary care physicians, neurologists, and geriatric providers in the region, we are a fast, compassionate referral when a family needs answers without a long wait.
FAQ
How is this different from the memory screen at a doctor's office?
A brief screen is a quick check that can flag a concern. A neuropsychological evaluation is far more thorough, measuring several areas of thinking in detail and comparing objective results to same-age peers.
Should a family member come along?
Yes, we encourage it. A spouse or adult child can share important observations the patient may not notice, and having family in the feedback session helps everyone understand the results and recommendations.
Can you tell depression from dementia?
Often, yes. Depression, sometimes called “pseudodementia” in older adults, can mimic memory loss. Our testing helps separate a mood condition from a true cognitive disorder so the right treatment can start.
Do you diagnose Alzheimer's disease?
Yes, we can diagnose possible or probable Alzheimer’s disease, or other forms of dementia, based on clinical symptoms and test results. We coordinate with the patient’s medical providers for imaging and bloodwork that can aid in diagnosis.
Is there a waitlist?
No. You are not waiting months while the worry grows, and you will receive a written report within four weeks of testing.
Worried about a parent's memory, or your own? Check availability or call 734-333-7016. Compassionate dementia and memory evaluations for older adults in Ann Arbor. No waitlist, and real answers.
References
Petersen, R. C., Lopez, O., Armstrong, M. J., Getchius, T. S. D., Ganguli, M., Gloss, D., Gronseth, G. S., Marson, D., Pringsheim, T., Day, G. S., Sager, M., Stevens, J., & Rae-Grant, A. (2018). Practice guideline update summary: Mild cognitive impairment. Neurology, 90(3), 126-135. https://doi.org/10.1212/WNL.0000000000004826
This page is educational and is not a substitute for a medical or psychological evaluation. A neuropsychological assessment is an honest read of the evidence and cannot guarantee a diagnosis or a specific outcome.