Memory Disorders Care

Our approach to memory disorders

Memory disorders are challenging; they’re progressive and we don’t always have a cure. This has given rise to the existence of treatments that may sound right but don’t actually have proven, tangible benefits.

Although dementia is progressive, you can enjoy meaningful activities and relationships. Early planning, regular medical care, healthy routines, caregiver involvement and community support can help improve quality of life. 

You can also expect a high degree of personalized care, a holistic approach that goes far beyond diagnosis and medication. That means that we consider the following factors in order to offer you personalized, unique treatment:

• What type of dementia you may have
• Degree of cognitive impairment
• Your living situation
• Whether you have a caregiver, spouse or children
• Your transportation needs
• Other health problems
• Your plans for the future

How our specialists work together

Sometimes, patients seeking a second or third opinion haven't received an accurate diagnosis. We specialize in diagnosing rare forms of dementia, Alzheimer’s, mild cognitive impairment and other disorders. You can always reach out to the UCI Health Memory Disorders Care Program directly within The ALS & Neuromuscular Center.

You will work with our radiology department to get brain scans, usually a PET scan or an MRI. We have a designated neuroradiologist who looks at your scans using a specific template to help in your diagnosis. You may work with our neuropsychiatrist and social workers to help you manage emotional, cognitive and social issues. 

We offer an important Alzheimer’s treatment that can have side effects. To help prevent or minimize complications, we may collaborate with our internal medicine or stroke colleagues. Our specialists work collaboratively as a team to manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Why choose UCI Health for memory disorder care?

We are one of the first centers to provide anti-amyloid therapy treatment for Alzheimer’s

This FDA-approved Alzheimer’s treatment is an important leap forward in memory disorder care. Neurology is an exceptionally fast-moving field, and this disease modifying therapy represents a significant breakthrough. You can count on us to be straightforward about its benefits, potential side effects and whether it’s right for you.

Educating you, your family and caregivers about your condition is an essential part of our care

Your brain impacts every aspect of your life. Diseases that affect the brain often produce an enormous variety of symptoms. That can include behavioral changes that you and your family don’t understand.
 
We know these are challenging illnesses. We make sure to explain why you’re having certain symptoms, what the causes are and how to manage them. This is especially important if you have other health issues. 

We collaborate closely with our Senior Health physicians so you can access GUIDE, a Medicare program

If you’re one of our dementia patients, GUIDE is a service that assigns you a care navigator. It assures that you receive all the correct treatments and see all the right specialists. GUIDE also makes accommodations for your caregiver in case they need hospitalization or treatment for their own health. 

Our clinical trials keep us at the forefront of current and future leading edge treatments

As the only academic medical center in Orange County, we deliver robust, world-class clinical trials.

We’re the first to know what our dementia clinical trials reveal about the risks and benefits of new drugs. We make sure that you get a balanced, realistic view of any side effects and potential benefits of a new treatment. We’ll help you to make an informed decision about your care.

In the Memory Disorders Program, one of us is always available 24/7

We have developed an effective on-call system. One of us is always available to guide the clinicians and deal with complications that might arise.

Medicare GUIDE Program

The UCI Health CMS GUIDE program provides support to improve the experience of people living with dementia as well as their loved ones and caregivers. Through the Medicare Guiding and Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) model, UCI Health provides coordinated, person-centered care that brings together medical expertise, caregiver support and community resources. 

We strive to improve quality of life, promote independence whenever possible, reduce avoidable emergency room visits and hospitalizations, and ensure caregivers receive the education and support they need throughout every stage of dementia. 

Beyond traditional clinic visits, GUIDE partners with patients, caregivers, primary care physicians, specialists and community organizations to deliver ongoing support. 

GUIDE provides:

Comprehensive dementia assessment

You receive a thorough evaluation that considers medical history, cognition, function, safety, behavioral symptoms, caregiver needs, medications and personal goals.

Personalized care planning

Care plans are developed collaboratively and updated as needs change.

Care coordination

We help coordinate appointments, referrals, communication between providers and transitions across healthcare settings.

Care navigation

Our team helps families understand available services, insurance resources and next steps throughout the dementia journey.

Community resource connections

We connect families with support groups, transportation, nutrition services, legal resources, and community organizations.

Respite care

Eligible caregivers may receive respite care benefits consistent with CMS GUIDE requirements.

Who is eligible?

If you or a loved has a confirmed dementia diagnosis, Medicare as their primary coverage and meet CMS GUIDE participation requirements, you may be eligible for GUIDE. 

Referral process

A UCI Health clinician or other participating healthcare provider may refer patients to GUIDE. Following referral, our team completes an eligibility review and comprehensive assessment. 

What to expect

After enrollment, patients and caregivers are introduced to the care team, participate in care planning, and receive ongoing support tailored to their needs. 

Caregiver support

Caregivers are essential partners in dementia care. The GUIDE Program is designed to support both patient and caregiver. Providing care can be physically and emotionally demanding. Access to education, resources and support can help caregivers feel confident while reducing stress and burnout.

Support includes:

• Dementia education
• One-on-one coaching
• Care planning assistance
• Emotional support
• Community resource referrals
• Navigation of healthcare services
• Respite care information and coordination

Respite care

Eligible caregivers may receive respite care services that provide temporary relief from caregiving responsibilities while ensuring their loved one receives appropriate care. 

Our team will explain available options, eligibility requirements and how respite services may fit into your care plan. 

Frequently asked questions