Support for Memory Loss

NYU Langone experts offer follow-up support for people with mild cognitive impairment. Our specialists also care for people concerned about developing cognitive changes or memory loss as they age. Our specialists can provide regular testing to gauge the level of any cognitive decline.

Because people diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment also have an increased risk of developing dementia, assessments are needed every four to six months to establish whether symptoms are staying the same, improving, or getting worse.

In addition, specialists at NYU Langone offer supportive services for people with memory loss, their families, and caretakers.

Cognitive Remediation Programs

NYU Langone offers two cognitive remediation programs, which provide supportive therapy for people with memory loss and teach strategies for improving everyday memory performance. At NYU Langone’s Rusk Rehabilitation, cognitive remediation sessions are tailored to an individual’s needs, based on his or her diagnostic evaluation. 

Cognitive remediation sessions focus on relearning cognitive skills, as well as teaching strategies and accommodations for overcoming cognitive weaknesses. Additionally, our specialists offer techniques for handling emotional and behavioral changes that have resulted from the cognitive impairment. When necessary, the sessions also address changes in an individual’s mood, adjustment, and coping abilities. These sessions may include a person’s family members at selected times. 

The cognitive remediation program at NYU Langone’s Pearl I. Barlow Center for Memory Evaluation and Treatment offers strategies for improving memory. Our specialists can also explain how depression, stress, and aging affect memory and other mental processes. They can describe how best to use notebooks, calendars, electronic organizers, and imagery as memory aids.

This program consists of 5 weekly 90-minute sessions, and is limited to 10 registrants.

Psychosocial Therapy

Psychosocial therapy can help a person with early memory loss, and his or her family members, adjust to the condition. NYU Langone offers therapy for individuals, couples, and groups.

Individual psychotherapy and the support of a counselor can help a person with cognitive decline to regain confidence. Couples counseling focuses on reinforcing positive elements of a relationship, even in the face of a partner’s memory loss. Group psychotherapy allows people with memory loss to share their concerns and successes with peers and to develop coping strategies in a supportive environment.

Assistance from Social Workers

People with memory loss and their relatives or caregivers may need assistance in accessing services or government benefits, such as home care, disability insurance, Medicaid, or supportive counseling to better cope with a diagnosis. 

The Barlow Center has a team of knowledgeable social workers that work together with families, caregivers, and doctors to address the needs of people affected by memory loss.