Often people with severe memory loss or other possible warning signs of Alzheimer’s are not aware of the problem. They may resist following up on their symptoms. Signs of dementia may be more obvious for family members or friends.

Finding the right doctor

The first step is to find a doctor you feel comfortable with. Your local Alzheimer’s Association can help you find the right doctor.

Physicians can almost always determine that a person has dementia, but sometimes it is difficult to determine the exact cause.

There is no single type of doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating memory loss or Alzheimer’s disease. Many people contact their regular primary care physicians or internists about their concerns. Primary care doctors often oversee the diagnostic process and provide treatment themselves.

In many cases, the primary care doctor may refer a patient to a specialist, such as a:

• Neurologist, who specializes in diseases of the brain and nervous system

• Psychiatrist, who specializes in disorders that affect mood or the way the mind works

• Psychologist with advanced training in testing memory, concentration, problem solving, language and other mental functions

A skilled physician can diagnose Alzheimer’s with more than 90 percent accuracy.

• Steps to Diagnosis

• When the Diagnosis Is Alzheimer’s

• Other Types of Dementia

• What's Happening to Grandpa? (slideshow)