Private Memory Assessment Sheffield | Fast Dementia Diagnosis
Private Memory Assessment Sheffield appointments give you fast access to a specialist doctor if you are worried about memory problems.
If you or someone in your family is becoming forgetful, confused, or behaving differently, waiting months for answers can be stressful. A private memory assessment allows you to be seen quickly and get clear advice about what is happening.
This page explains what happens during the appointment and how it can help.
Who Might Need a Private Memory Assessment Sheffield?
You may want to consider a private assessment if:
Memory is getting worse
The person repeats questions often
There are changes in mood or behaviour
They get lost in familiar places
They struggle with money or medication
You are waiting a long time for an NHS appointment
You want a second opinion
Early assessment helps you understand the cause and plan ahead.
What Happens During a Private Memory Assessment Sheffield Appointment?
The appointment usually lasts between 60 and 90 minutes. It is calm, thorough and unhurried.
1. A Detailed Conversation
The doctor will talk to both the patient and a family member if possible.
You will be asked:
When the memory problems started
How they have changed over time
How daily life is affected
Whether there have been personality changes
What medications are being taken
About past illnesses such as stroke or heart disease
This helps build a full picture.
2. Memory and Thinking Tests
Simple paper-and-pen tests are done to check different areas of the brain, including:
Short-term memory
Concentration
Language
Problem-solving
Visual skills
Common tests include:
Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination III
Montreal Cognitive Assessment
These tests are not exams. They help identify patterns that suggest certain conditions.
3. Physical Check-Up
Memory problems are not always caused by dementia.
The doctor will check:
Blood pressure
Heart and circulation
Balance and walking
Signs of Parkinson’s disease
General health
Sometimes problems like infection, medication side effects, depression or vitamin deficiency can affect memory.
4. Scans or Blood Tests (If Needed)
Not everyone needs a brain scan.
If required, tests may include:
Blood tests
ECG
MRI or CT brain scan
Scans help doctors tell the difference between conditions such as:
Alzheimer’s disease
Vascular dementia
Dementia with Lewy bodies
Frontotemporal dementia
Each condition is managed differently, so getting the right diagnosis is important.
How Is Private Memory Assessment Sheffield Different From NHS Services?
Private appointments usually offer:
Faster access
Longer consultation time
Direct review by a senior specialist
Clear written report
Quick arrangement of tests
There is more time to ask questions and discuss concerns.
What Happens After the Appointment?
After your Private Memory Assessment Sheffield consultation, you will receive:
A detailed written report
A clear explanation of the diagnosis
Advice about treatment options
Guidance about driving if needed
Support and planning advice
A letter sent to your GP (with permission)
If medication is suitable, this will be discussed carefully.
Sometimes the outcome is reassuring — not all memory problems mean dementia.
Is a Private Memory Assessment Sheffield Worth It?
Many families say the biggest benefit is clarity.
Instead of worrying and waiting, you get:
Clear answers
A plan
Peace of mind
Early access to treatment if needed
The earlier problems are assessed, the better the long-term planning.
How to Book
You do not need a referral to book a Private Memory Assessment Sheffield appointment, although a GP letter can be helpful.
If you are searching for:
Private memory clinic Sheffield
Memory test Sheffield
Dementia specialist Sheffield
A consultant-led assessment provides fast and thorough evaluation.
