Memory Care

Memory loss can take a toll on patients and their loved ones. Conditions like Alzheimer’s disease can be difficult to navigate for both caregivers and the patients themselves. Fortunately, the team at Memorial Healthcare in Owosso and throughout the state of Michigan provides comprehensive neurology services, including memory care for patients with dementia.

Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia

While Alzheimer’s disease and dementia may mistakenly be used interchangeably, they are distinct. Dementia is not a specific disease – it’s an umbrella term for mental decline that interferes with a patient’s daily life. Alzheimer’s disease, in contrast, is a specific, diagnosable condition and the most common underlying cause of dementia. Other forms of dementia include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia.

In addition to memory loss, symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia can include:

  • Confusion about events and places
  • Repeating questions
  • Difficulty managing money or paying bills
  • Getting lost
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Changes in behavior, such as agitation or anxiety
  • Trouble learning new information
  • Difficulty recognizing family or friends

As memory loss progresses, a patient may experience symptoms like paranoia or hallucinations.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Dementia is not uncommon – according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated five million adults in the United States age 65 or older have dementia. However, not all older adults with memory loss have dementia. Some level of memory loss is normal as a person ages – such as occasionally forgetting a neighbor’s name or misplacing an item. To accurately diagnose a patient with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, a physician may use the following tests:

  • Blood work
  • Cerebrospinal fluid tests
  • Imaging tests such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
  • Neurocognitive testing
  • Psychiatric evaluation

These diagnostic tests can help rule out other underlying conditions that can affect memory, such as infection, thyroid problems, or metabolic disorders.

While not all forms of dementia are reversible, they can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes. Certain medicines can help improve brain function and slow disease progression in some patients. Patients with Alzheimer’s disease may also benefit from medications that help address related symptoms, like depression or sleeping problems.

Memory Care at Memorial Healthcare Institute for Neuroscience

Memorial Healthcare Institute for Neuroscience is proud to be an employed physician practice of Memorial Medical Associates, a department of Memorial Healthcare. The institute’s medical team is passionate about delivering personalized care to each patient, taking the time to understand their unique diagnosis and needs.

At Memorial Healthcare Institute for Neuroscience, patients benefit from best-in-class neurological care, as well as robust support services including:

  • Occupational and physical therapy
  • Speech and language pathology
  • Mental health services
  • Information on clinical trials

The practice is currently accepting new patients with most insurances.

 

Questions About Memory Care?

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Memorial is such an amazing place with caring qualified professionals that go out of their way to ensure all of their patients are safe and satisfied! Such a gem in our community!
- Nick Terek

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Cara Leahy, DO

Memorial Medical Associates About

Tamara Platner, PA-C

Memorial Medical Associates About

Locations

819 N. Shiawassee Street
NOW Building - 1st Floor
Owosso MI 48867

Phone: 989-723-1390 Fax: 989-725-1415

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4200 Fashion Square Blvd, Suite 301
Saginaw, MI 48603

Phone: 989-729-4206 Fax: 989-729-4207

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Owosso

The Meadows

245 Caledonia Drive
Owosso, MI 48867

Phone: (989) 720-8823 Fax: (989) 720-9723

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Memory Care Team

Memory care services are led by Dr. Cara Leahy, the Director for Cognitive Disorders at Memorial Healthcare. Dr. Leahy is a passionate advocate for memory care and is actively involved in teaching physicians and medical students about best practices in Alzheimer’s Disease care. She is on the front lines of Alzheimer’s Disease research and treatment, and she brings her expertise to provide comprehensive care at Memorial Healthcare Institute for Neuroscience. Dr. Leahy is supported by certified Physician Assistant Tamara Platner.

Dr. Leahy works extensively with a variety of disciplines to provide a comprehensive approach to dementia and memory loss, leveraging all available resources to help her patients. She is the creator of iRemember, a free tablet program for memory care patients. Dr. Leahy attended Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her residency in neurology at Sparrow Hospital.

Memory Disorders Clinic

In partnership with Alzheimer’s Association, Memorial Healthcare Institute for Neuroscience has opened a multidisciplinary memory disorders clinic to support patients and their loved ones. This new clinic is designed to offer the latest in information, treatments, and services for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

Under Dr. Leahy’s leadership, the clinic’s team of nurses, clinical pharmacists, and home health professionals meet with each patient and their family members to create a multidisciplinary approach to care. The medical team offers a holistic approach to care beyond medication that seeks to improve the quality of life for patients with Alzheimer’s disease and their families. Patients can receive a referral to the memory disorders clinic through their primary care physician.

Memory Care and Assisted Living

Older adults who need additional care can find a compassionate and welcoming environment at The Meadows, Memorial Healthcare’s assisted living facility. 14 of the 47 private rooms at The Meadows are set aside for memory care patients, offering residents independence while providing a safe and nurturing environment. Memory care services at The Meadows include:

  • 24-hour specially trained staff
  • Medication management
  • Emergency call system
  • Transportation to appointments
  • Nutritious breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks
  • Assistance with activities of daily living
  • Housekeeping and laundry services
  • Individual support services

Memory care rooms include utilities and offer cable television and Wi-Fi.

Find Memory Care Services at Memorial Healthcare

Patients and their loved ones who need trusted memory care services can count on Memorial Healthcare in Owosso, MI. Serving a community of approximately 68,000 in Greater Shiawassee County and the surrounding area, Memorial Healthcare offers expert care provided by highly trained providers. With more than 25 satellite locations, Memorial Healthcare sees over 200,000 outpatient visits each year. The hospital is accredited by The Joint Commission and is proud to be a member of the Michigan Health and Hospital Association (MHA). For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us today.

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Obtain Memory Care From Memorial Healthcare