Dr. Inwald’s dissertation focused on memory functioning in the elderly.  He continues to actively participate in the assessment and treatment of this population.  A frequent referral question is to differentia dementia, mild cognitive impairment, and pseudodementia (depression).  Reversible and irreversible dementias are studied at NBC.  Primary care physicians, neurologists, and psychiatrists frequently seek out collaboration in diagnostic formulation, assessment of driving skills, medicolegal competence, and the assessment of psychological functioning (e.g. anxiety, depression, psychosis, etc.).

The assessment for dementia includes examining memory, executive functioning, abstract thinking, visuospatial skills, language, social/occupational functioning, presence of agitation and changes in personality.  There are numerous causes and types of dementia including Alzheimer’s Dementia, Vascular, Parkinson’s Dementia, Huntington’s Dementia, Lewy Body Dementia, etc. 

At NBC we also provide therapy, if indicated, to the patient or his family.  Communication with and between family, caregivers, attorneys, and physicians is sometimes difficult but is invaluable.  It is helpful to identify supportive services, the possible need for cognitive rehabilitation or compensation and to support/educate the spouse and family in any expected changes.