[Memory clinic--ambulatory examination in suspected dementia]

Dementia and confusion are frequently overlooked by general practitioners. A memory clinic was established at the Department of Geriatric Medicine, Ullevål Hospital in September 1990 with the intention of creating a standardized programme for diagnosing dementia and cognitive impairment in the elderly in an out-patient setting. The activities and services offered by the clinic are described: diagnoses, information to patients, their family and staff in the primary health care system about the symptoms and treatment of dementia. In addition, advice is given on follow-up care and how to apply for care through the national health service. There has been a great demand for the services of the Memory Clinic, and we believe that the methods used are adequate in an out-patient setting. The concept could easily be transferred to other specialist clinics involved with the elderly, and parts of the programme could also be used by general practitioners.