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Geriatric Assessment Clinic

Our Geriatric Assessment Clinic team has many years of combined experience in caring for those who have cognitive impairment and are experts in diagnosing the causes of memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease, and related dementias.

  • There are effective treatments available today for persons suffering from memory impairment as well as a number of new medications on the horizon.
  • The clinic team partners with the patient, family, and caregivers to provide education and interventions in coping with memory loss.
  • The clinic team can link the patients, family, and caregivers with the Alzheimer Association and other resources as appropriate.
  • The clinic team provides ongoing monitoring and support, assisting the patient and family in planning for the future.
  • The clinic follows internationally-recognized protocols for making diagnoses of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

Changes in memory, thinking, behavior, or the ability to manage everyday tasks can be difficult to recognize, especially when they happen gradually. While occasional forgetfulness can be a normal part of aging, increasing difficulty with daily activities may signal an underlying condition such as dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, medication-related concerns, or other health issues that deserve evaluation.

Many families first notice subtle changes before a more significant decline occurs. You may find yourself taking over responsibilities that a loved one previously managed independently, including:

  • Paying bills and managing money
  • Cleaning and housekeeping
  • Doing laundry
  • Managing and taking medications
  • Preparing meals
  • Shopping
  • Driving

When these challenges begin affecting a person’s safety, independence, or quality of life, it may be time to schedule a comprehensive assessment through our Geriatric Assessment Clinic.

Additional signs that may warrant an evaluation include difficulties with:

  • Using the phone, computer, TV remote, etc.
  • Bathing and showering
  • Recognizing cues such as hunger, thirst, and using the restroom
  • Decline in social skills
  • Dressing
  • Mobility
  • Loss of normal inhibitions
  • Abnormal sleep patterns

Our multidisciplinary team works closely with patients and their families to identify the cause of these changes, provide an accurate diagnosis, and develop personalized recommendations to support cognitive, physical, and emotional well-being. Early assessment can help individuals maintain independence, access appropriate resources, and plan for the future with confidence.

Please call 608.647.6161 to schedule an appointment or to find out more information.

  • The first visit is a two-hour appointment with a comprehensive study and exam.
  • The return visit, generally scheduled 2-3 weeks later, is a one-hour appointment. The patient, family, and caregiver will be given the diagnosis and treatment recommendations. A comprehensive, written summary is provided to the family and a copy is sent to the primary care provider. Further information is provided regarding dementia; future planning and community resources are provided.
  • As appropriate, 3, 6, and 12-month appointments are scheduled.

The clinic does not provide primary care but communicates with the patient’s primary care provider.

*Patients should be accompanied by at least one family member to ensure comprehensive history.

*Patients should wear glasses and hearing aids/devices.

At The Richland Hospital and Clinics, our Geriatric Assessment Clinic is dedicated to helping older adults maintain their highest level of independence, health, and quality of life. Through a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach, our team evaluates cognitive, physical, emotional, and social factors that may affect overall well-being and daily functioning.

We provide thorough assessments, expert diagnosis, and personalized care recommendations to help patients and their families better understand age-related health concerns, memory changes, mobility challenges, medication management, and other complex healthcare needs. By bringing together specialized expertise and coordinated care, we help identify concerns early, develop individualized care plans, and connect patients with the resources and support they need.

Our goal is to enhance cognitive, physical, and emotional wellness while helping older adults remain active, independent, and engaged in the activities that matter most to them. Working closely with patients, caregivers, and primary care providers, we deliver compassionate guidance and support for every stage of aging.