St. Croix HealthMemory Clinic

Memory Clinic

We all want to grow old gracefully but, when memory or other cognitive changes occur, they can be stressful for both the individual and their family. Our team of professionals at the Kinisi Memory Clinic understand that and are here to help you and your family deal with these changes.

Our Memory Clinic is affiliated with the Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Institute (WAI) and follows WAI’s best practice guidelines. Our team consists of dementia care experts from neurology, psychology, occupational therapy and social work who perform high-quality, thorough evaluations. These specially trained professionals recognize the importance of early diagnosis of memory problems and recommend treatments and services that can help patients and their caregivers. Their goal is to provide patients and their family with the essential care needed to live a happier, healthier, and longer life.

Is it Dementia?

Dementia, also known as “Major Neurocognitive Disorder”, is a term used to describe decline in thinking, memory, or other cognitive skills severe enough to interfere with everyday life.

This can be caused by a variety of conditions such as:

  • Alzheimer's disease

  • Vascular disease/Stroke

  • Lewy body disease

  • Fronto-temporal disease

  • Parkinson’s Disease

  • HIV/AIDs

  • Addiction

  • Reversible causes such as depression, untreated sleep apnea, vitamin deficiencies, or other illnesses.

When to Seek Help. . .

You should seek help if you or your loved one have any of the following signs and symptoms:

  • Changes in Memory

  • Difficulty completing familiar tasks; for example, planning and cooking a meal, paying bills, or doing household tasks

  • Confusion with time, place, or people

  • New problems in speaking, writing, or repeating oneself

  • Misplacing or hiding things

  • Withdrawal from activities

  • Changes in mood and personality

  • Getting lost in familiar places

Why Have a Memory Clinic Evaluation?

Determining the cause of cognitive or memory changes is important because:

  • Some cognitive changes are normal and knowing that can lessen your anxiety.

  • Some symptoms may be treatable or reversible.

  • Certain treatments are more effective when started early.

  • Some dementia conditions may not get worse; and having that information may decrease anxiety.

  • Understanding your condition can help avoid other medical issues.

  • A diagnosis allows you and your family to seek education on your condition, find support services, and make informed decisions and plans about your future.

To schedule an appointment with the memory clinic, you must get a referral from your primary care provider.