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Signs You May Need a Memory Assessment

A memory assessment may be helpful when changes in memory, thinking, language or behaviour are becoming persistent, noticeable or difficult to explain.

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Everyone forgets things from time to time. Misplacing keys, forgetting a name briefly, or walking into a room and forgetting why can happen to anyone. However, when memory changes become more frequent, affect daily routines, or are noticed by family members, it may be time to seek a professional opinion.

A private memory assessment can help explore whether symptoms may be linked to dementia, mild cognitive impairment, stress, low mood, medication, sleep problems, physical health issues or another cause.

Common Signs of Memory or Thinking Changes

People seek a memory assessment for many reasons. Common concerns include:

  • Forgetting recent conversations
  • Repeating the same questions
  • Losing track of appointments or plans
  • Becoming confused about dates or times
  • Difficulty finding words
  • Struggling to follow conversations
  • Finding familiar tasks harder than before
  • Losing items more often
  • Becoming more withdrawn or less confident
  • Changes in mood, behaviour or personality
NHS guidance highlights common early dementia symptoms such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating, problems carrying out familiar daily tasks, confusion over time or place, and changes in mood.

When Everyday Forgetfulness Becomes a Concern

Occasional forgetfulness is common. It becomes more concerning when changes are persistent, worsening, or affecting independence.

For example, it may be worth seeking advice if someone is forgetting important recent events, becoming confused in familiar places, struggling with normal routines, making unusual mistakes with money or medication, or relying much more heavily on notes, reminders or family support than before.

A helpful question is not simply “am I forgetting things?” but “is this a change from how I used to function?”

Changes Family Members May Notice

Family members often notice changes before the person affected does.

This may include:

  • Repeated conversations
  • Missed appointments
  • Increased confusion
  • Difficulty managing household tasks
  • Changes in judgement or decision-making
  • Increased anxiety, irritability or suspicion
  • Withdrawal from hobbies or social situations
  • Getting lost or disorientated
  • Seeming less able to cope with everyday responsibilities

These observations can be very important during assessment. Where possible, it is helpful for a relative, partner, carer or close friend to attend the appointment and share examples.

Further Information
Signs You May Need a Memory Assessment

Private Dementia & Memory Assessments

Private dementia and memory assessments for adults experiencing memory changes, confusion, word-finding difficulties or cognitive concerns.
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Private Dementia Assessment for a Parent or Relative

Concerned about a parent, partner or relative’s memory? Private dementia assessments can help families understand symptoms and next steps.
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Dr Maja Elia talks about dementia and memory assessments, including when to seek help for changes in memory, confusion, word-finding difficulties, or changes in thinking, behaviour, or day-to-day functioning

Other Conditions That Can Affect Memory

Memory problems do not automatically mean dementia.

Possible contributing factors include:

  • Anxiety or depression
  • Stress or burnout
  • Poor sleep
  • Medication side effects
  • Alcohol use
  • Vitamin deficiencies
  • Thyroid problems
  • Infections or delirium
  • Menopause-related cognitive changes
  • Physical health conditions
  • Trauma or significant life events
NHS guidance notes that GPs may organise blood tests, urine tests and cognitive tests to help rule out other causes of memory problems.

How a Private Memory Assessment Can Help

A private memory assessment can help by giving you time with a specialist clinician to discuss symptoms properly.

The assessment may help:

  • Clarify what has changed
  • Explore possible causes
  • Consider whether symptoms suggest dementia or mild cognitive impairment
  • Identify whether further investigations may be needed
  • Provide recommendations for the patient, family and GP
  • Support earlier planning and practical next steps

It can also help families move from uncertainty to a clearer plan.

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Online Dementia Assessment

£900

Consultant-led online dementia and memory diagnosis appointments

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In-Person Dementia Assessment

£1250

Adult dementia and memory diagnosis at our Marylebone or Barnet clinics.

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For More Information

What are early signs of memory problems?
Early signs may include forgetting recent conversations, repeating questions, difficulty concentrating, losing track of dates, word-finding problems, changes in confidence, or difficulty completing familiar tasks.
Memory loss should be assessed when it is persistent, worsening, affecting daily life, or noticed by people who know you well.
Yes. Stress, anxiety, depression and poor sleep can all affect memory and concentration. A proper assessment can help explore whether symptoms are linked to emotional health, physical health, medication, dementia or another cause.
A family member can support someone to book, but the person being assessed should understand and agree to the appointment where they have capacity to do so.
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Please Note

ADHD Health Clinic is not a crisis service. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 999 immediately. For urgent medical help that is not life-threatening, contact NHS 111.

For non-urgent enquiries during working hours, you can reach our admin team at admin@adhdhealthclinic.co.uk.

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