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(L-R) Frances Dowdeswell, whose late husband, Ian, was a patient at St. Paul’s Hospital’s Geriatrics Clinic; and Dr. Martha Spencer, division head of Geriatric Medicine at Providence Health Care.
(L-R) Frances Dowdeswell, whose late husband, Ian, was a patient at St. Paul’s Hospital’s Geriatrics Clinic; and Dr. Martha Spencer, division head of Geriatric Medicine at Providence Health Care.
Patient Care

New memory clinic helps older people experiencing early cognitive changes

Published

This article originally appeared in The Daily Scan.

People over 60 who have concerns about their memory or thinking skills may be eligible to receive care at a new St. Paul’s Hospital clinic.

Thanks to donor support to the St. Paul’s Foundation, the Early Intervention Memory Clinic (EIMC) is now open and accepting referrals. The clinic team – which includes geriatricians and occupational therapists – sees patients as soon as they start to notice changes in their memory and thinking.

“By identifying and reducing risks and encouraging beneficial lifestyle habits as early as possible, we can help patients optimize their brain health and maintain their quality of life,” says Dr. Philip Lee, Geriatrician and Physician Lead for EIMC.

As the population ages, more people are experiencing changes in their memory or thinking skills. While some changes are part of getting older, others could be a sign of a condition that will get worse over time.

“When subtle shifts in cognition have occurred and the cause is unknown, people can feel worried and anxious about what the future may hold. They may also try to hide these changes to avoid stigma,” says Annie Chen, Occupational Therapist. “The EIMC encourages people to share their concerns and experiences with a medical professional – early on, as the sooner a person takes action, the sooner they can learn strategies and habits to support their well-being.”

Patients can self-refer to the new clinic, but may need a doctor’s referral if a consult with a specialist is recommended.

Looking ahead, the vision is for the EIMC to be an integral part of the Shinozaki Family Centre for Healthy Aging, slated to open with the new St. Paul’s Hospital in 2027.

Image of Centre for Healthy Aging South

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