COULD HE HAVE DEMENTIA?

Q

My dad went to see the GP last week, as he has been concerned about his memory, and was asked some questions. The GP has written down that he scored 14 out of a possible score of 30 and that he is being referred to a memory clinic. Can you explain what that means, and what I should expect to happen next?

A

Your father’s GP probably did a mini mental state examination on him. This is a series of standard questions and memory tests. Anything 24 or above is deemed normal. A score between 10 and 18 is suggestive of moderate memory problems. The memory clinic will do various tests to check for any specific underlying causes for poor memory and discuss next steps, so try to go with him to the appointment.