Memory Assessment
Clinic General Information The University of Georgia Memory Assessment Clinic is a community service dedicated to providing comprehensive neuropsychological assessment of memory problems among older adults 60 years and older. This service is directed by L. Stephen Miller, Ph.D., within the UGA Psychology Clinic, with the cooperation of Leonard W. Poon, Ph.D., Director of the UGA Gerontology Institute, and is recognized for research and clinical expertise in geriatric memory assessment. The Clinic operates in association with the Clinical Psychology Training Program. Memory problems are one of the primary complaints among older adults. Some of the perceived problems are part of the normal aging process, but others may be indicative of age-related changes that may be reversible. A comprehensive diagnosis provides a basis for intervention. The Memory Assessment Clinic provides families with a comprehensive memory assessment, integrating individual and family reports of the nature and extent of the problem(s) with results of neurological and neuropsychological evaluations. The entire evaluation typically lasts four to six hours, broken up into two sessions. Patients should expect: 1. A Patient and Family Interview which includes questions about your understanding and a description of the types of difficulties you (or a family member) may be having. 2. A Functional Status Assessment which includes questions about how well you (or a family member) can perform several daily living activities. 3. Neuropsychological Assessment which includes measurements of orientation, memory, attention, language skills, and spatial abilities. Age, educational level, and cultural influences may affect how well patients perform on these tests and will be taken into account when interpreting results. 4. A Psychological Assessment which covers questions about possible mood or behavioral changes that are often associated with several types of memory problems, including depression. 5. Coordination of Care with other medical specialists including neurologists and primary care physicians to help families understand their diagnosis and treatment implications and identify ways to help patients stay as independent as possible for as long as they can. Cost of Services Fees are hourly and vary depending upon the needs of the individual person. Patients are billed for direct services only. Most major medical insurance policies; including Medicare will cover some percentage of fees assessed for the services of a clinical neuropsychologist, making this an option available to many patients. Scheduling and Contact Information Hours of Operation for the Memory Clinic are: An individual may be self-referred, or referrals may be made through physicians or family members. For more information about the Clinic or to schedule an appointment, please call (706) 542-1173. Confidentiality is respected, and all information is held in the strictest confidence legally possible.
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