Dementia Prevention
At Healthspan Neurology, my mission is to minimize the risk of dementia as much as possible for each patient.
I do this by applying proven medical science, staying curious and informed of evolving research and bringing this to you in the form of advanced diagnostics and personalized risk factor modification strategies. My 25 years of clinical experience as a board certified neurologist informs your expert driven care.
How we establish your Dementia Prevention Protocol over three visits:
Step 1 - Your complimentary 20” call
We use this time for me to learn about your background, what you’re looking for, what I offer and if we are the right fit. We then schedule your first visit and have you fill out a comprehensive intake questionnaire. You have any prior records made available for my review.
Step 2 - Our first Dementia Prevention visit - ASSESS
This is the fun part. The majority of this 75”+ visit is spent getting to know you and what’s important to you. We review your goals related to aging and how you may currently be working towards them now. We review your family medical history, any medical or neurologic issues you have had or are dealing with and medications and supplements you may take. We review “lifestyle” factors at length. This includes your sleep habits and quality, your current exercise practices, your dietary intake as well as your preferences. We explore your stressors and coping strategies. We evaluate your environment, exposures and how you spend your time, both physically and mentally.
By the end of this visit I will recommend testing for you to have done which is likely to include:
Advanced labwork to assess your cardio-metabolic and inflammatory profile
Cognitive testing using a FDA class 2 medical device
DEXA scan for body composition.
Depending on the risks assessed so far we may also consider testing such as:
brain imaging (MRI Neuroquant)
cardiac imaging (CT calcium score test)
vascular imaging (carotid ultrasound, CTA)
genetic testing
continuous glucose monitor
advanced exercise physiology testing (like VO2 max testing)
sleep evaluation
Step 3 - Our second Dementia Prevention visit - ANALYZE
This is the really interesting part. During this second 75”+ visit we review your testing results in detail. This may uncover hidden risks we weren’t aware of but the purpose here is to empower, not alarm. By knowing these risks we can then take targeted steps to mitigate their effects. You’ll also be motivated to take action since you know exactly what you’re working on and why it’s so important.
Together we will define a step by step Dementia Prevention Protocol. This is likely to include detailed evidence informed recommendations regarding how to optimize your:
fitness
nutrition
microbiome health
sleep optimization
stress management
hormonal balance
use of prescription medications and supplements
lifestyle habits and general health
As a neurologist my focus is on your brain health but my evaluation takes a whole systems approach and will optimize your whole body health. What’s good for the brain is good for the body.
You don’t need to do it all at once but you’ll have a roadmap and coaching along the way. With over 20 years of working within the Rochester medical community I also have a network of healthcare providers that I trust and will make referral to if further specialized care is needed.
Step 4 - Our third Dementia Prevention visit - RESULTS
This is the really rewarding part. During this third 75” visit we review your Dementia Prevention Protocol and how you are gaining agency over your brain (and inevitably whole body) health and how to focus your efforts. Because you have a step by step plan on what to do you will feel empowered instead of overwhelmed. Life is never perfect and can get in the way sometimes but now you know how to prioritize, take control and get back on track.
Step 5 - Follow up - REVIEW
Your Dementia Prevention Protocol will be provided to you in a step by step easy to follow written program. Follow up visits every 6-12 months are recommended so we can review repeat testing and make appropriate shifts in strategy when needed. Alternatively you can choose to take next steps independently or review them with your other care providers. Either way, the Dementia Prevention Protocol gives you the detailed steps you need to take to mitigate your risk of dementia by optimizing your brain efficiency and resilience.