A dementia assessment uses a detailed interview and standardised cognitive testing to work out whether memory and thinking changes reflect normal ageing, mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia — and, where possible, the most likely cause. The results guide treatment, planning and support, and give families a shared understanding of what’s happening.
Signs it may be time for an assessment
- Repeating questions or stories, or forgetting recent conversations
- Getting lost in familiar places or struggling with directions
- Difficulty managing money, medications or appointments
- Trouble finding words or following conversations
- Changes in personality, judgement, motivation or social behaviour
- Family members noticing a change from how the person used to be
Memory changes can have many causes — including mood, sleep, medications and other treatable conditions — so a thorough assessment matters.
Our dementia assessment services
- Neuropsychological dementia assessment to distinguish normal ageing, mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia.
- Differential diagnosis to identify the most likely cause of symptoms and inform evidence-based treatment.
- Repeat assessment to track change over time or the effect of treatment.
- Capacity assessment for financial, healthcare, lifestyle and accommodation decisions.
- Occupational therapy assessment, which may include home visits and daily living assessment to inform practical recommendations.
Types of dementia we assess
Dementia is an umbrella term with many causes, each with a different pattern of symptoms and progression. These include Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, Lewy body dementia, Parkinson’s disease dementia, alcohol-related brain damage, posterior cortical atrophy, limbic-predominant age-related TDP-43 encephalopathy (LATE), chronic traumatic encephalopathy, HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder, Huntington’s disease, motor neurone disease (ALS), progressive supranuclear palsy and corticobasal syndrome.
Cameron’s research focused on differential dementia diagnosis, including Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia.
What the assessment tells you
A dementia assessment provides important information about:
- Whether cognitive impairment or dementia is present
- The most likely cause, and what that means for the future
- Which thinking skills are affected — and which remain strong
- Practical recommendations: environmental changes, cognitive rehabilitation, external supports and carer strategies
Our focus is on maximising independence and quality of life — and on supporting carers, who often carry a heavy load.
Reducing dementia risk
There are many modifiable risk factors for dementia, particularly if they are identified early. We offer early intervention to help people reduce their risk, as well as baseline assessment for those at greater risk. A good first step is the free online CogDrisk dementia risk tool (UNSW and Neuroscience Research Australia).
Public and private pathways in SA
Your GP is the best first step: they can check for treatable causes (such as thyroid problems, vitamin deficiency, medication effects, sleep or mood), and refer to a public geriatric or memory clinic — including the fortnightly country health clinic at Mount Barker hospital — or to a private neuropsychological assessment. Many families choose a private assessment for a detailed picture of thinking skills, clarification of mild cognitive impairment versus dementia, a baseline for future comparison, or help with planning and carer support. For free information and support, call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.
After the assessment
Depending on the findings, next steps may include cognitive and memory rehabilitation (including the MEMORehab program), occupational therapy, psychological support for adjustment, and referrals to your GP, a geriatrician or neurologist. We also refer families to trusted local partners where helpful.
Cost and funding
Assessments are quoted as one all-inclusive fee before you commit, based on our $240 hourly rate (below the APS recommended $330). Medicare does not cover dementia assessments. Funding may be available through Support at Home (if included in your approved support plan), DVA, and private health insurance. See fees & funding for details.
