Dementia & Memory Loss
Memory Care at UVM Health
Occasional forgetfulness is common, especially as we age. However, memory loss that continues to get worse and interferes with daily activities and social interactions may be a sign of a more serious condition.
Dementia is a general term for symptoms related to cognitive function, including memory loss and an increasing inability to think clearly, solve problems, plan and learn.
Dementia results from damage to the brain caused by conditions like Alzheimer's disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, frontotemporal dementia and vascular dementia.
At University of Vermont Health, we understand the impact that a memory disorder can have on you and your friends and family. We provide a warm and friendly environment filled with memory loss experts who deliver exceptional care. Our team works with you and your caregivers to navigate the physical and emotional challenges of life with a memory disorder.
Why Choose UVM Health?
As one of the leading memory care programs in the region, we offer:
- Comprehensive care: We provide multidisciplinary care with skilled neurologists, neuropsychologists, psychometrists, psychologists, counselors, nurse practitioners and clinical social workers.
- Advanced diagnostic capabilities: We use a personalized neuropsychological evaluation that provides key insights into your brain. We quickly tailor your treatments for the most effective results.
- Academic focus: Our physician-leaders are active researchers, many of whom are training the next generation of experts. As a patient, you benefit from access to the latest advancements in memory care.
Types of Memory Disorders
We combine leading-edge expertise with compassion to care for people with all conditions leading to dementia, including:
The most common type of dementia, Alzheimer's disease occurs when abnormal protein structures build up in and around the brain's nerve cells. Eventually, the nerve cells die, resulting in memory loss, personality changes and cognitive decline.
Frontotemporal dementia or degeneration happens when nerve cells in the brain's frontal lobes (behind the forehead) or temporal lobes (behind the ears) die. Behavior and personality changes are often the first signs of FTD.
Dementia with Lewy bodies (brain cell proteins that abnormally cluster together) affects the mind and body. You may have cognitive problems, such as hallucinations or judgment difficulties, and Parkinson's disease-like symptoms (slow movement, tremors and rigidity).
People with vascular dementia have reduced blood flow to the brain, leading to a lack of necessary oxygen and nutrients. Blood vessel damage from a stroke or chronic dysfunction of microscopic blood vessels can lead to vascular dementia.
Mixed dementia exhibits symptoms of two or more forms of dementia at the same time.
Some types of cognitive problems are not related to dementia. They're caused by conditions that might be reversible, including:
- Alcohol use disorder
- Depression
- Medicine side effects
- Thyroid conditions such as hypothyroidism
- Vitamin deficiencies
Diagnosing Dementia & Memory Conditions
If you or a loved one is experiencing declining memory or cognitive abilities, see a provider right away. An early diagnosis allows us the best chance of improving your symptoms and helping you stay independent for as long as possible.
There's no single test to diagnose dementia or the diseases that cause dementia. To understand your condition, your provider will perform a thorough physical examination and ask questions about your medical history and your family’s medical history. Your provider may also ask your family about differences they’ve noticed in your behavior.
Your UVM Health team may conduct several tests and evaluations, including:
To help us understand how your brain works, one of our specially trained psychometrists may ask you to perform specific tasks such as writing, drawing or solving a puzzle. You may also be asked about your mood.
A neurological exam assesses how well your brain communicates with your body. Your doctor checks your muscle function, reflexes, speech and senses.
A psychiatrist or psychologist can help determine if depression or another mental health condition is causing your memory loss or cognitive problems.
A social worker may assess whether an adjustment disorder plays a role in symptoms, and they may consider factors such as caregiver stress to help inform a diagnosis.
Advanced imaging allows us to take photos and videos of the inside of your body. We use the latest neuroradiology technology, including:
- Computed tomography (CT) scan: X-rays and advanced computers create 3D pictures of your brain.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Magnets and a specialized computer work together to provide clear, detailed images of your brain.
- Positron emission tomography (PET) scan: You receive a small and safe amount of radioactive substance (tracer) that allows us to see brain activity during a CT scan.
Certain substances in your blood can help diagnose or rule out conditions that may cause symptoms similar to certain types of dementia.
Your provider inserts a needle or drain into your spinal canal to remove some cerebrospinal fluid to test for proteins related to Alzheimer’s disease.
Electroencephalography (EEG) measures electrical activity in the brain. Your provider places small electrodes on your head that measure your brain's electrical impulses.
Dementia & Memory Loss Treatment
While dementia and related conditions have no cure, our team of memory loss specialists work with you to develop a care plan that helps you live well, both physically and emotionally. Your plan may include:
Some types of drugs can help slow memory loss and ease your symptoms.
Dementia and related conditions can cause mood and behavior changes. Our mental health counselors work with you and your family to address your emotional challenges.
We empower you and your loved ones with information about your condition. Our extensive support services help you and your caregivers throughout your health journey. UVM Health's Dementia Family Caregiver Center provides comprehensive consultations and programming to educate, build skills and support families caring for persons with dementia. We help families identify available resources, such as therapeutic caregiver groups and mentoring programs.
Patient Resources
- Dementia Family Caregiver Center: UVM Health's DFCC provides a pathway to resources for families caring for those with Alzheimer's disease and dementia.
- Alzheimer's Association: The Alzheimer's Association leads the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support.
- Age Well VT: The leading experts and advocates for the aging population of Northwestern Vermont. They believe that health happens at home and focus on lifestyle, happiness and wellness—not on age.
Locations Near You
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111 Colchester Avenue
Burlington, VT 05401
1 South Prospect Street
Arnold, Level 6
Burlington, VT 05401-5505
3113 Roosevelt Highway
Colchester, VT 05446
792 College Parkway
Fanny Allen, Medical Office Building, Suite 205
Colchester, VT 05446-3052
89 South Williams Street
Burlington, VT 05401-3405
111 Colchester Avenue
Main Campus, East Pavilion, Level 5
Burlington, VT 05401-1473
15 Degrandpre Way
Plattsburgh, NY 12901
111 Colchester Avenue
Main Campus, Patrick, Level 4
Burlington, VT 05401-1473
790 College Parkway
Fanny Allen Campus
Colchester, VT 05446
1 South Prospect Street
Arnold, Level 2
Burlington, VT 05401-5505
