VA NY Harbor Healthcare System

Dementia Resources for Providers and Caregivers

Dementia is a brain condition affecting as many as 4-million Americans. Memory loss is one of the first signs of dementia followed by changes in personality, behavior, thinking and the ability to communicate clearly. Dementia can affect younger age groups, but is most common in those persons 65 and older. Dementia is not a part of the normal aging process. Early diagnosis of dementia is important. A medical examination is necessary to identify what has caused the dementia. Some forms of dementia are reversible with appropriate medical attention. In other cases, a treatment plan can help support the patient, family and caregivers.

VA PROGRAMS

• VA Geriatrics & Extended Care  

INTERNET RESOURCES

Educational Information
• National Alzheimer's Association
• Alzheimer's Disease Education

Community Resources 
• Long Island Alzheimer's Association
• Elder Locator

Dementia and Safety 
• National Institute on Aging

Other Government Agencies
• NYC Dept. for the Aging 
• NJ State Disability
• Medicare

For Caregivers
• Family Caregiver Alliance
• National Family Caregivers Assoc.
• Children of Aging Parents

Warning Signs of Early Dementia
• Recent memory loss that affects job skills
• Difficulty performing familiar tasks
• Difficulty finding the right word
• Difficulty remembering the date
• Feeling lost
• Loss of judgment
• Misplacing things
• Difficulty with abstract thinking
• Changes in mood or behavior
• Changes in personality
• Loss of your "get-up-and-go"

If you or someone you know has any of these symptoms, you should contact VA or your physician for a complete medical examination. Early diagnosis and treatment allows patients and their family time to try treatment options, connect with support services and make practical plans for the future.