Memory Disorders
Understanding memory disorders
Memory disorders, including mild cognitive impairment (MCI), dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease, are not a normal part of aging. They can cause changes in memory, thinking, communication, mood, and behavior. For people living with dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, symptoms worsen over time and interfere with daily life.
Corewell Health's neurosciences team offers comprehensive care to diagnose and treat memory disorders. We also support and guide caregivers who care for loved ones with memory loss.
Why choose us
Dedicated multidisciplinary care team
Patients with memory disorders receive specialized care from our experts in:
Personalized treatment plans focus on improving quality of life. For patients with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, the care team adjusts the plan as the disease progresses. Our experts also coordinate care with other specialists to manage chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease.
Innovative diagnostics and treatments
We use advanced technologies to diagnose memory disorders. Imaging, such as MRI and PET scans, can detect changes in the brain and help identify the cause of memory loss.
We also offer the latest treatment options, including disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) that slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Patients can access convenient care at our infusion centers across Michigan.
Our researchers are working to better understand Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) to improve care for people living with these conditions.
Specialized care for older adults
Our geriatricians focus on the unique health needs of adults 65 and older. They work closely with neurologists and other specialists to help patients navigate physical, cognitive, and social challenges that may occur with aging.
In Southwest Michigan, the Corewell Health Geriatric Assessment Clinic provides specialized care for older adults, including cognitive testing to evaluate for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD).
Conditions we treat
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI)
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) affects memory, language, thinking, or judgment, but does not significantly interfere with daily activities. It has no single cause. MCI increases a person’s risk of developing dementia. Early diagnosis can help guide treatment and monitor cognitive changes.
MCI symptoms may be treatable if they result from medication side effects, sleep disorders, thyroid disease, vitamin deficiency, or other conditions.
Dementia
Dementia is a general term for a progressive decline in memory, thinking, reasoning, or behavior. Symptoms worsen over time and interfere with daily life.
Causes of dementia include:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Dementia with Lewy bodies
- Frontotemporal dementia
- Vascular dementia
Alzheimer’s disease
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia in adults 65 and older. Early-onset Alzheimer’s affects adults younger than 65.
The disease typically progresses in stages: early (mild), middle (moderate), and late (severe). Progression varies by person, but symptoms worsen over time and eventually lead to dependence on others for daily functioning.
Alzheimer’s disease currently has no cure. However, treatment can help manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and, for some people, slow disease progression.
Related neurological conditions
Memory loss may also be common with movement disorders, including:
- Huntington’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Parkinson’s disease
Symptoms of memory disorders
Symptoms can affect memory and thinking, mood and behavior, and communication. They vary by person and diagnosis.
Common symptoms include:
- Challenges with planning or problem-solving
- Confusion about time or place
- Difficulty finding words, reading, or writing
- Forgetting conversations or recent information
- Getting lost in familiar places
- Increased irritability or agitation
- Losing or misplacing items, such as glasses or keys
- Repeating questions or stories
- Trouble with daily tasks, such as driving or paying bills
For people living with dementia, symptoms worsen as their condition progresses. They may have difficulty recognizing familiar family members and friends, communicating, or completing daily tasks independently.
Support for caregivers
We understand that memory disorders can be overwhelming for patients and their families. Our team, including nurse navigators and social workers, provides support with:
Adult day programs and senior services
Care coordination for complex health needs
- Communication, daily care, and safety
Community resources (support groups and educational programs)
Long-term care options (memory clinics and assisted living)
- Medication management
Concerned about memory loss?
Corewell Health specialists across Michigan are here to help. Make an appointment today.