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MEMORY LOSS / DEMENTIA CLINIC

When is memory loss a problem? We can help you find out! Do you wonder if you or the Veteran you care for are experiencing changes in memory or thinking? Ask yourself, Does the Veteran… Ask the same questions over and over again? Become lost in places that are well known? Have difficulty following directions? Get confused about time, people, and places? Have difficulty caring for themselves – eating poorly, not bathing, or being unsafe? If you answered yes to any of these items, we can help!

 If you answered yes to any of these items, we can help! Please click here for a printable version of this quiz to take to your health care team.

                                                                                                           

Understanding Memory Changes

Everyone experiences changes in their thinking, with memory loss being a common concern. Having this concern does not always mean that there is anything wrong. It may be a part of normal aging but could also be due to medical conditions. If you think that your difficulties with memory are more than what you expected, then you can get it checked out at the Northport VA. When symptoms are identified early, we can get you the care and support that you need.

 Here are some common concerns that Veterans describe:

  • Problems with short-term memory (e.g., names or recent events)
  • Difficulty finding words (e.g., “tip of the tongue”)
  • Confusion
  • Personality or behavior changes
  • Difficulty performing everyday tasks (e.g., paying bills, remembering appointments, keeping track of a purse or wallet)

 
 How Do You Get Started? 

If you are concerned, let us know. Care can be provided through a range of health care services at the Northport VA and is tailored to the Veteran’s needs. 

Step 1: Contact Veteran’s PACT primary care provider to set up an appointment and discuss the concerns that you have. To schedule an appointment, call 631-754-7978, or contact your provider through My HealtheVet. 

Step 2: At the PACT appointment, your doctor will discuss your concerns and create a plan to look into them with you.

  • Lab work, testing, memory and/or emotional screens may be a part of the process.

 Step 3: You will discuss the results with your provider and develop a plan of care.

 

 Resources Available at the VA 

No matter where you are in this process, Northport VA has resources and support for both Veteran and caregiver. For information or to get a referral for any of the below services, contact your PACT (primary care provider): 

Medical and Related Services (telehealth and in-person options available through PACT referral)

 In-Home Services (available through PACT referral)

  • Home Based Primary Care (HBPC)
  • Skilled Homecare
  • Telehealth / VVC
  • Home Safety Evaluation (through Occupational Therapy)
  • Contract Home Health Aide (HHA) / Adult Day Health Care (ADHC)

 Caregiver Support (available through PACT referral)

Community and National Resources 

Caring for persons with dementia can be complex, and your Northport team is available to address your questions and to help you deal with complexities that may arise over time. You can also learn more information about dementia care including Veteran caregiver family resources, information regarding safety and other concerns, education and support, and other relevant issues by visiting: 

Community                                                              

Elizabeth Dole Foundation

Respite Care

NATIONAL VA 

Dementia Care

Caregiver National

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