It can be highly upsetting for patients and families who are concerned that they may be suffering from the early stages of a memory problem.

If you are concerned about the memory of yourself, or a relative, then please ask for a memory clinic appointment with the nurses. They will perform a short test of your memory using a validated set of questions known as the GPCOG tool. This takes approximately 10 minutes. There is a section for a relative or carer to respond to, so please bring someone who knows you well to the appointment. The nurse will also arrange for a comprehensive set of blood tests if this has not already been performed.

Should your test be suggestive of a memory problem then the nurse will ask you to make an appointment with your preferred GP to discuss things in more detail. The final diagnosis is always made by a specialist consultant and the GP will arrange a referral if they feel this is appropriate.