Memory Clinic: New Patients

Who should be evaluated for memory concerns?

It is normal to experience mild changes in cognition as you age. These changes are subtle and typically involve some forgetfulness and slower processing speed. However, it is abnormal to experience more severe declines in cognition such as rapid forgetting and difficulty solving common problems. It may be a good time to talk to a doctor if you are:

• Having a decreased ability to take care of yourself such as eating poorly or not bathing
• Noticing changes in language comprehension
• Having personality changes
• Experiencing forgetfulness or confusion regarding recent events, time, places, or people
• Asking the same questions multiple times
• Getting lost in places that should be familiar
• For more information, visit:
  • When Is Forgetfulness Normal?
  • Warning Signs for Memory Loss

What to Expect

The first appointment is approximately 90 minutes long. During this time, you will:

• Discuss in-depth the concerning memory or behavior issue
• Be interviewed by a medical student, resident, or geriatric medicine fellow in addition to one of the Memory Clinic physicians
• Meet with our social worker, if needed, which can further lengthen the visit
• Have a variety of functional and cognitive tests performed
• Have laboratory or imagining tests ordered, if needed
  • Commonly performed tests during memory evaluation
• Receive referrals for further testing, treatment, and community resources
• Schedule a follow-up appointment to review results and for future care

What to Bring to Your Appointment

• Informant/Caregiver so our team can develop a complete assessment
• All medications and supplements
• Glasses and/or hearing aids if these are prescribed
• New Patient Information Form
• For persons with an established dementia diagnosis, a Social Work Intake Assessment Form will be provided to you at your appointment
• A copy of your Advanced Directive if available

Where to Go

Our Memory Clinic is located in the Geriatric clinic:

22nd & I St., NW, 3rd Floor

Washington, DC 20037

More information about transportation to this location can be found by clicking here.

After Your Visit

• Follow up with referrals prescribed by your physician, or visit Our Partners.
• Connect with Community Resources and Special Programs in the District and Surrounding Region
• Find Resources for Caregivers & Support
• Explore Opportunities to Improve thinking and Slow Cognitive Loss, or visit Living with Memory Disorders
• Learn more about living with memory disorders