A Clinician-Proposed Memory Assessment: What to Expect
Menopause & HormonesArticleBring examples and your medicine list, then ask how the findings fit the wider assessment.
In this article
If your clinician has proposed a cognitive assessment for memory concerns, ask what the appointment will involve. NHS1 guidance describes a wider assessment rather than a single test that diagnoses dementia.1
The history matters
The doctor asks when symptoms started and how they affect daily life, and reviews prescribed medicines, pharmacy purchases and products such as vitamin supplements. Have your complete list and examples available. Someone who knows you well may help describe changes, if you want them with you.1
Questions may cover several abilities
The NHS1 describes pen-and-paper questions assessing memory, attention, communication and awareness of time and place. These tests can identify difficulties needing investigation, but cannot diagnose dementia by themselves. Education can influence scores.1
Ask: “What does this assessment help you understand? How will you interpret the findings alongside my history, and what happens next?”
Have the team explain the result and any proposed follow-up. Keep the contact details with your appointment notes.
My Body Changed. Now What? includes a Visit Brief. Use it to organize examples and questions for the appointment. See the book.
This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It isn't a substitute for diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional who knows your health history. Please don't ignore professional advice or delay getting care because of something you read here. If you think you may be having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. Girl Playbook does not endorse any specific product, test, or provider.
Girl Playbook sells this book. It provides education and worksheets, not individualized medical care.
Sources
The research behind this article, in the order it’s cited. How we source our articles.
Spotted something out of date? Tell us and we’ll check it.
