A comprehensive diagnostic evaluation is the first step toward getting the right care for Alzheimer's disease (AD), Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), and age-associated memory impairment (AAMI). It also provides reassurance for healthy individuals concerned about possible memory decline and provides a baseline for comparison with future assessments. Evaluations provide accurate information about an individual’s condition that healthcare professionals use to determine treatment and care options for that particular patient. Alzheimer’s disease is progressive, a patient’s condition and needs change over time. Because of this, the ADC offers patients regular re-evaluations for as long as the patient is registered at the center.

Who can apply for a diagnostic evaluation?

What are the benefits of getting a diagnostic evaluation at the ADRC?

What is the application procedure and diagnostic evaluation process?

Who coordinates the diagnostic evaluation process?

Who can apply for a diagnostic evaluation?

Applications are accepted from individuals who are 50+ years of age, have Medicare, Medicaid or other health insurance, and:

• are having problems with memory and cognitive functioning, and
• have not been previously diagnosed with an illness or disorder other than Alzheimer’s disease that affects memory and cognition.

or:

• are healthy and free of memory or cognitive problems but would like to participate in ADC studies as normal control subjects.

Applications are also accepted from younger individuals whose family histories suggest evidence of Alzheimer’s disease.

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What are the benefits of getting a diagnostic evaluation at the ADC?

• The security of having your care guided by experts in the field of aging and Alzheimer’s disease.
• The comfort of receiving an accurate and reliable diagnosis that offers precise information about a patient’s condition.
• The assurance of long term monitoring and follow up assessment.
• The availability of a full range of ADC programs and services regarding Alzheimer’s care, and including the latest research studies and treatment trials.

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What is the application procedure and diagnostic evaluation process?

In order to ensure the best and most appropriate evaluation and care possible, applicants are asked to:

• Fill out and send in an application.

The application includes a questionnaire about the applicant’s:

• current health and treatments
• past medical and social history
• medical insurance

• Participate in a telephone screening.

The screening is based on the information provided in the application and is used to clarify whether ADC can meet the applicant’s needs.

• Take part in a preliminary interview and tests.

The preliminary interview and testing determine whether the person has a memory problem and, if so, the nature and progression of the participant’s symptoms, if present. This step requires the participant to come to the ADC in person with a family member or friend.

• Complete the full series of evaluations necessary for diagnosis.

This step requires the participant and family member or friend to make 1-3 additional visits to the ADC.

• Participate in a family conference.

The family conference is held at the ADC and requires the presence of the participant and family member or friend. At the family conference, the diagnostic conclusions are presented and explained, and their implications for care and possible research participation are discussed.

• Meet with study and program coordinators.

Participants will be invited to participate in clinical trials, psychosocial interventions, non-pharmacological studies and other programs at the ADC. Although patients are encouraged to take advantage of services and programs that they are eligible for, participation is completely voluntary.

If any part of the application process shows that an applicant cannot benefit from ADC services, the applicant will be referred to other appropriate resources.

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Who coordinates the diagnostic evaluation process?

Our ADC Clinic Coordinator , works with participants and their families throughout the evaluation process to ensure that all services are properly coordinated and that participants and families are introduced to the full range of services available to them.

To inquire about diagnostic evaluations and eligibility for services and programs of the ADC, please contact our Clinic Coordinator at (212) 263-8088.

Learn more about Diagnostic Evaluations

Download an Application