Information Sheet

The Memory Clinic

Lapses in memory are normal at any age – it is perfectly natural to forget things from time to time. In some cases memory loss can be caused by physical factors such as thyroid dysfunction, menopause and heavy alcohol intake. It may be caused by psychological factors such as stress, depression and anxiety. Our memories can even be affected by some prescription medicines.

We do tend to become more forgetful as we get older. It is a natural, normal part of the aging process, and is nothing to worry about. Around 40% of people over 65 years have age-related problems with their memory. Some individuals, however, have more trouble with their memory than would normally be expected. They tend to be forgetful when compared to others of the same age. People who find that their forgetfulness interferes with their day-to-day life should inform their GP’s and consult a memory clinic.

Knowing whether you have a memory problem or not should put your mind at rest and ease anxiety. Taking a memory test means that you have made a positive step towards dealing with a problem that may have been worrying you for sometime.

We are a team of independent medical professionals and psychologists offering a free memory clinic, which is part of our research centre based in Dartford. We perform full memory assessments using a specialised battery of tests to assess memory function. These assessments can distinguish between several types of memory impairment. We offer regular follow up assessments to monitor memory function and provide support & advice in a friendly environment.

If you wish to make an appointment with us, the assessment takes about an hour to complete and is comprised of a series of fairly simple tests. The results take about three weeks to be analysed and you would receive the results directly from us. Depending on the result of your test we may advise that you go to your GP for further medical investigation. If we detect a memory problem, we will discuss a course of action with you. You may be offered the opportunity to participate in trials for new treatments.

There are two ways in which referrals can be made to the clinic: people can refer themselves directly, or Consultants and GPs may refer their patients by letter or telephone.

The clinic is open Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm. Please feel free to write to us for an appointment, or ring the Centre directly on (01322) 286862.

Clinical Neuroscience Research Centre
7 Twisleton Court
Priory Hill
Dartford
Kent DA1 2EN

Tel no: 01322 286862
Fax no: 01322 286861

Web address: http//:www.psychmed.org.uk