Does mental health assessment treat dementia?

Memory loss, confusion, low mood, sleep disruption and behaviour changes can have several causes. A clinician may ask the person and someone who knows them about onset, daily function, medicines, medical history, mood and safety at home. They may use cognitive questions and arrange physical checks or referrals. This helps separate possible dementia from delirium, depression, medication effects or other conditions that may need different treatment.

Bring a current medicine list and examples of changes in memory, language, judgement or everyday tasks. If possible, attend with a trusted relative or carer who can describe changes the person may not notice. Ask about referrals, cognitive support, routines, home safety, driving, advance planning and help for carers. Follow-up can review symptoms, treatment effects and new concerns; practical support remains useful even when the underlying condition cannot be reversed.

Sudden confusion, a new weakness, facial drooping, trouble speaking, severe headache, loss of consciousness, a seizure or a head injury needs urgent medical attention. Seek prompt help if the person is wandering into danger, cannot eat or drink, is being harmed or may harm someone else. Rapid change over hours or days should not be assumed to be dementia.

Ask what may be causing the changes, which tests or referrals are appropriate, how medicines should be reviewed, what home adaptations could help and when reassessment is needed.