The Healthy Aging and Dementia Clinic provides assessment, treatment, support, and psychoeducation about memory changes and mental health changes that can occur in the process of aging. Our assessments can identify and diagnose neurodegenerative conditions (dementias), and we often receive referrals from Neurologists and Physicians to assist with making these diagnoses. We also help to support people and their care partners in navigating the life changes associated with new diagnoses such as Mild Cognitive Impairment, Dementia, Aphasia and Parkinson’s Disease. We give community lectures on Memory and Aging, Healthy Aging, Care Partner burden, Mental Health and Cognitive Changes associated with Parkinson’s Disease, and Recognizing and Addressing Mental Health Changes in Seniors (typically for residential care facility staff).

At our clinic, Geriatric Neuropsychologists or Geriatric Psychologists conduct cognitive assessments and/or mental health assessments, and then provide diagnoses and treatment for conditions associated with aging. We provide dementia screening assessments along with more extensive cognitive assessments in order to identify neurodegenerative conditions. Treatment recommendations that can follow a cognitive assessment may include learning Neuropsychological rehabilitation strategies to compensate for milder changes in memory, attention and organizational skills.

This clinic was developed to assist older adults with maintaining their optimal well-being as they age and to improve quality of life and daily function in the context of aging. Some people also pursue psychological treatment to assist with life transitions such as retirement or becoming a care partner to a spouse or parent. Mental health symptoms can present differently in older ages groups and we provide assessment and support services to reduce symptoms and to promote coping. We can help to connect you to appropriate community resources and additional supports. We also provide documentation to your primary healthcare providers in order to ensure a comprehensive healthcare approach.

Conditions that we typically assess and/or treat include:

• Mild Cognitive Impairment
• Dementias (e.g., Alzheimer’s Disease, Lewy Body Dementia, Frontotemporal Dementia, Vascular Dementia)
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Stroke-related cognitive changes and post-stroke coping
• Acquired Brain Injury
• Post-Cardiac Anoxia/Hypoxia
• Mental Health changes and diagnoses (e.g., Major Depressive Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, stress)
• Behaviour changes
• Relationship changes
• Adjusting to Life Transitions (i.e. retirement, moving into assisted living or long term care, role changes in families and care partners)

Dr. Sandra Belfry is the Healthy Aging and Dementia Clinic Director of Services. For an appointment and/or consultation, please reach us at the ‘Contact’ button below or by using the “Make a Referral” link on our homepage.