Is DEMENTIA a Bigger Word than Cancer?

MindCheck and the Mind Wellness Centres originated from some years of using computerised touch screen technology from Brain Resources Centre. This consists of a validated neuropsychological test battery that is easy to use takes much less time to complete testing that provides accurate information about an individuals cognitive function and indicates areas of impairment. However, it does not, and this is true of all neurpsychologicla test batteries, what caused the cognitive impairment. Working with people with suspected Traumatic Brain Injury and Substance Induced Brain Injury we developed a number of supplementary tests and protocols that allowed us to be more specific about the cause. These included a thorough history, including medical history, extensive psychological testing, interviewing others who knew the client well and clinical observation.

We also knew that the technology could indicate specific areas of cognitive deficit among those who were suffering from dementia, which is a degenerative brain disease. We also knew that there were many people who had not been diagnosed with dementia, others who suffered from milder forms of cognitive impairment and many in both groups who were concerned about their mental health. We also knew that it is becoming more urgent that people be aware of what was happening so they could take appropriate action. In many cases cognitive decline may be in line with people of the same age and knowing this could alleviate unnecessary concern. In other cases early diagnosis allows the person time to implement changes to reduce the risks of getting dementia, delaying the onset of the disease or to slow its progress.

At this stage it was important to develop a set of protocols derived from the scientific literature to allow us to make distinctions between those who had dementia, even in its early stages and those who did not. Within each group it was important to make further distinctions. I the first group identifying the type of dementia is important as each form requires a different approach and some forms are more amenable to treatment. In the second group it is important to identify those who were at risk of getting dementia an those who were less at risk to again allow them to make choices about implement appropriate treatments or change sin lifestyle.

To make an accurate diagnosis of any problem that has resulted in declines in cognitive functioning is a complex problem. Mind Wellness Centres have developed teams of professionals who together can pool their knowledge and experience to decide on a diagnosis that is as accurate as possible. This requires the skills and knowledge of Medical Doctors trained in Geriatrics and the assessment of people with dementia, including the use of brain scans such as MRIs, Neuropsychologies and Neuroscientists and Psychologists who are skilled in the use of psychometric testing and who have an extensive knowledge of the cause of brain disease and injury and its treatment.

People who come tho the Mind Wellness Centres can be confident that these professionals will consider each person’s case individually to make a diagnosis, to develop an appropriate treatment plan and to follow up to review results.