Dementia is a clinical term describing the progressive loss of cognitive functions — memory, thinking, judgement, language, orientation — that affects daily functioning. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause, but there are other forms that require different approaches. Correct and early diagnosis makes a difference.
When the above symptoms exceed “normal” ageing and begin to affect the patient’s safety or autonomy, assessment is necessary. The suspicion is often raised first by family members. Important: certain reversible conditions (e.g. B12 deficiency, hypothyroidism, late-life depression) mimic dementia. Psychiatric assessment rules these out before a diagnosis is made.
At Mindbeing, the assessment includes clinical neuropsychiatric examination, laboratory work-up for reversible causes, and — in collaboration with a neurologist where needed — imaging. Treatment includes: specific medication to slow progression (where indicated), management of accompanying symptoms (depression, agitation, insomnia, psychotic symptoms), and family support — because dementia is a “family illness”. Dr Tzampazidou’s experience in German clinical neuropsychiatry is applied with both sensitivity and technical skill.
If you recognise yourself or someone close to you in the above, a first session is the most practical next step.
