People with symptoms of dementia are given tests to check their mental abilities, such as memory or thinking. These tests are known as cognitive assessments, and may be done initially by a GP. There are several different tests. A common one used by GPs is the General Practitioner Assessment of Cognition (GPCOG).

What are the advantages of having my memory assessed? Finding the cause The testing may result in a possible explanation for your cognitive difficulties. Often people find it a relief to know what is happening to them, and this can reduce anxiety. This can also help people and their families plan for the future and make adaptations in their ...

The 2019 London Memory Service Audit1 highlighted wide variation in the use of diagnostic neuropsychology assessments in patients undergoing assessment for dementia by memory assessment services. Overall, 7 per cent of patients were referred for diagnostic neuropsychological assessment varying from 0 to 22 per cent per service.

The report explores Memory Assessment Services (MAS) in England and Wales including: • if/how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected services, • some of the challenges that MAS are facing, and • examples of innovative service delivery which address some of these challenges.

Use a validated cognitive assessment tool such as the 10-point cognitive screener (10-CS), the 6-item cognitive impairment test (6CIT), the 6-item screener, the Memory Impairment Screen (MIS), the Mini-Cog, or Test Your Memory (TYM). Do not rely solely on cognition scores in circumstances in which it would be inappropriate to do so.

To help rule out other causes of memory problems, the GP will do a physical examination and may organise tests, such as a blood test and urine test. You'll also be asked to do a memory or cognitive test to check any problems with your memory or ability to think clearly.

NHS England supports the use of the 6CIT and the MOCA for the diagnosis of dementia in primary care settings. There are other standardised reliable tests available which may be used in place of these; dependent on the assessor

What is a memory assessment? A memory assessment is a specialist assessment which will help us find out the underlying reason for your problems and work with you to help decide the best next steps. If you aren’t quite sure about things - have a look at this useful checklist from the Alzheimer's Society. What does the assessment process include?

People with symptoms of dementia are given tests to check their mental abilities, such as memory or thinking. These tests are known as cognitive assessments, and may be done initially by a GP. There are several different tests. Probably the most common one used by GPs in the General Practitioner Assessment of Cognition (GPCOG).

The following are some examples of patients who would normally benefit from referral: Suspected Parkinson’s Disease Dementia (PDD) or Lewy Body Dementia (LBD); Younger people with suspected dementia, where the chances of there being a rarer neurological condition are greater;