Have you ever lost your car keys or temporarily forgotten which day it is?
Many of us have, and if we are 65 or older or have older loved ones, it can sometimes be scary … and we tend to assume the worst.
According to Dr. Jason Morris, a clinical psychologist, such a condition may be Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Dr. Morris spoke at the June 2 meeting of the Alpha Chapter of Continuity of Care at Alden Courts living facility in Glen Ellyn.
“Mild cognitive impairment has been ill-defined for forty years,” said Dr. Morris, who said there is a difference in symptoms between MCI and Alzheimer’s or Dementia.
Suppose the problem is the onset of MCI. Early testing can identify it early, and the outcome can be a better quality of life down the road. Individuals can actively participate by being a part of their future planning as they get older.
“The earlier you detect normal aging vs. abnormal aging, the better,” he said. Many people, and even health professionals, mistakenly assume that specific loss or decline of mental health or memory indicates the presence of dementia.
“MCI is separate from dementia,” he said. “There are measures that can be implemented like lifestyle changes and mental exercises to possibly improve the mental health of a patient,” he said. A simple 30-60 minute assessment with a psychologist like Dr. Morris, who specializes in identifying MCI, can determine what further testing makes the most sense and is needed.
Dr. Jason Morris founded Platinum Psychology Services with the vision of assisting fifty thousand clients and their families over the next ten years. Platinum Psychology Services see both in-office and onsite clients.
Free services for facilities
A Community Liaison coordinates onsite sessions for the client through the facility and at no cost to the facility. Session updates are shared directly with the Primary Care Doctor and the family. This unique communication ensures everyone on the team is working together for the best care of the individual.
Platinum Psychology Services accepts most major insurances, including Medicare, Medicare supplements, and private pay, and provides traditional geriatric therapy to neurocognitive screenings and testing.
For more information, go to www.platinumpsychologyservices.com.