Treatment of dementia by neurologist Ihor Stanislavovych Shkynder in Dnipro.

Patients present with memory decline, difficulty concentrating, changes in behavior, or slowed thinking.

The doctor conducts a thorough clinical review of the complaints and medical history, assesses the patient’s condition, and, if necessary, orders additional examinations to clarify the causes of the symptoms.

As a result, the patient receives a clear and understandable action plan: what to do now, which tests to undergo, and how to monitor changes in their condition over time.

Igor Stanislavovich Shkinder pays particular attention to differentiating the causes of the disorders and adjusting treatment with consideration of possible side effects, as well as to the longitudinal management of patients with concomitant diseases.

When to See a Doctor

If you notice changes in memory, thinking, or behavior that are causing concern, it is important not to delay consulting a specialist. You should see a neurologist to understand the causes of the symptoms and choose the best ways to support your health. It is worth making an appointment with a neurologist if, with dementia, you notice:

• Persistent memory lapses that interfere with daily life
• Difficulty with concentration and attention that worsens over time
• Periodic changes in mood or behavior that are confusing to others
• Slowed thinking and problems with decision-making
• Difficulty orienting yourself in time or space
• Worsening symptoms despite your own attempts to manage them
• Symptoms progressing and interfering with work or communication with loved ones
• Repeated episodes of worsening memory or cognitive function
• Ineffectiveness of measures previously taken without consulting a specialist
• Exacerbation of conditions after stress or illness
• The appearance of new symptoms that are unusual for you
• The need to adjust an already prescribed treatment or monitoring plan

Seeing a medical neurologist makes it possible to assess the condition comprehensively and identify possible causes of the changes. It is important not to self-diagnose, since these symptoms can occur for different reasons. If such signs appear, a consultation will help determine which steps are most important in your specific situation.

Emergency situations or when you need to see a doctor urgently

• A sudden, severe decline in memory and consciousness
• Severe speech impairment or inability to understand other people’s speech
• Loss of coordination or sudden weakness in the limbs
• A rapid and worsening change in behavior with disorientation
• A combination of confusion and a severe headache

If these symptoms appear, do not wait for a scheduled appointment; seek urgent medical care. Our clinic also offers home doctor visits for a prompt assessment of your condition.

Causes and Risk Factors in Dementia

In this section, we’ll explain where dementia can develop from and which factors affect the likelihood of its onset or worsening. This will help clarify what is important to check during a doctor’s consultation.

Main causes / mechanisms (briefly)

• Dysfunction of brain cells associated with age-related changes
• Reduced blood flow to the brain due to vascular problems
• Chronic conditions affecting the nervous system
• The impact of accumulated damage and inflammatory processes in the brain
• Genetic predisposition to memory and thinking disorders

Risk factors

• Age over 65
• Presence of cardiovascular disease
• High blood pressure and diabetes
• History of head injuries
• Chronic stress and depression
• Habits associated with low physical activity and poor nutrition
• Smoking and alcohol abuse
• Family history of neurological diseases

Reversible causes that should be ruled out

• Deficiency of B vitamins and other nutrients
• Thyroid dysfunction
• Chronic inflammatory processes and infections
• Side effects of certain medications

Dementia is a complex condition whose causes require careful examination and assessment by a doctor. Proper identification of the contributing factors helps determine the necessary steps to slow progression and improve quality of life.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of dementia involves a step-by-step review of symptoms and possible causes in order to determine the patient’s condition and define the next stage of evaluation. This approach helps assess the situation as accurately as possible and choose the most appropriate support methods.

Approach to diagnosis

• Collecting a detailed medical history, including complaints and the course of illness
• Neurological examination to assess cognitive and motor functions
• Basic memory and attention tests to identify impairments
• Additional investigations as indicated to clarify the causes
• Analysis of the findings and preparation of a plan for further action
• Discussion of the results and recommendations with the patient and family members
• Support and regular monitoring of changes over time

Typical investigations as indicated

May include:

• Complete blood count and blood chemistry tests, assessment of vitamin levels
• Thyroid function tests
• MRI or CT scan of the brain to detect structural changes
• Neuropsychological testing to assess different aspects of memory
• Other laboratory and instrumental tests if needed

What to bring to the appointment

• Medical records and results of previous examinations
• A list of medications being taken and their dosages
• If you keep a symptom diary, bring a copy or your notes
• Information about chronic conditions and past injuries
• Contact details of relatives who can describe the changes
• Questions and concerns so that all important points can be discussed at the appointment

Dementia diagnosis is a comprehensive process that requires time and a step-by-step assessment. The doctor will help you understand the stages of the evaluation and choose the best plan for your case.

Treatment

Treatment for dementia is aimed at reducing symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease. The treatment plan is selected individually, taking into account each patient’s specific characteristics, and requires a doctor’s evaluation.

Treatment goals

• Reducing the severity of cognitive and behavioral impairments
• Improving the patient’s quality of life and daily functioning
• Slowing the decline in brain function in dementia
• Preventing complications and maintaining overall stability

Main treatment approaches

• May include the use of medications as indicated to control symptoms
• Use of rehabilitation and non-drug methods to help maintain skills
• Management of coexisting conditions that affect brain function
• Support for the patient’s emotional well-being and that of their family/caregivers
• Therapy is selected individually based on overall health and needs

What the doctor does

• Evaluates the effectiveness and tolerability of the prescribed treatment
• Adjusts the treatment plan if there is no improvement or if side effects occur
• Takes coexisting conditions into account when choosing treatment
• Explains to the patient and relatives how to monitor the condition and changes
• Coordinates treatment with other specialists when necessary

What to expect: plan and follow-up

• Assessment of results and possible adjustment of the plan at certain intervals, as indicated
• Monitoring the progression of symptoms and the patient’s overall well-being
• Regular visits to check treatment effectiveness and adapt the strategy
• An individualized approach to determining the timing and scope of necessary examinations

You can learn more about treatment options for dementia during a consultation with Dr. Igor Stanislavovich Shkinder.

Prevention

Prevention in dementia is important for reducing the risk of onset and slowing the progression of changes in brain function. The prevention plan is selected individually, taking into account the overall condition and risk factors.

Main measures for primary prevention

• Control of blood pressure and blood sugar levels
• Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption
• Maintaining physical activity at the level recommended by a doctor
• A healthy diet with an emphasis on vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats
• Reducing stress factors and allowing time for emotional relief
• Regular treatment and monitoring of chronic diseases

Screening and secondary prevention / regular monitoring

• Regular assessment of cognitive function when indicated
• Monitoring and correction of risk factors according to the doctor’s recommendations
• Periodic examinations of the blood vessels and heart
• Discussing with a doctor whether additional tests are needed based on individual indications

Practical tips

• Try to include reasonable physical activity in your daily routine
• Discuss taking vitamins and supplements with your doctor, if needed
• Pay attention to sleep patterns and avoid prolonged sleep deprivation
• Maintain mental activity through social interaction and reading
• Follow medication instructions for any coexisting conditions
• Seek medical advice if new symptoms or changes appear

Preventive measures in dementia help preserve quality of life and are tailored to the patient’s individual characteristics.

Important to know

Treatment of dementia requires a comprehensive approach and careful investigation of the cause of cognitive impairment. Early assessment helps the doctor choose the most appropriate treatment strategy and reduce the risk of complications. Since the course of dementia can change over time, regular follow-up is important so the treatment plan can be adjusted according to how the condition progresses. Various factors influence the process — stress, sleep quality, and coexisting medical conditions — which calls for a holistic approach to the patient’s health. Self-treatment can make diagnosis more difficult, cause unwanted effects, and delay the start of the necessary treatment.

• In treatment, it is important to identify the cause and triggering factors, not just reduce symptoms
• Early consultation helps choose effective support methods and slow the progression of changes
• Ongoing monitoring makes it possible to adjust treatment promptly if symptoms change
• Stress, lack of sleep, and chronic illnesses can complicate the course of dementia
• Taking medications on your own or changing treatment without a doctor can be harmful and complicate diagnosis
• The doctor takes individual characteristics and the features of coexisting conditions into account when selecting therapy
• Support from loved ones and cooperation with the doctor are important for improving the patient’s quality of life

For a more detailed introduction to the topic of dementia treatment, we recommend visiting our general page dedicated to neurology.

Self-help before the appointment: what you can and cannot do

Before your appointment for memory and thinking problems, it is important to follow safe recommendations so as not to worsen the condition or make diagnosis more difficult. If your condition suddenly worsens, seek help urgently from Dr. Shkinder Igor Stanislavovich.

What you can do before the appointment

• Write down when and how the memory changes and other symptoms began
• Bring a list of all medications you are taking, including dosages, to the appointment
• Keep a symptom diary: when symptoms appear, how severe they are, and what makes them worse or better
• Measure your blood pressure and temperature if you know how, and record the results
• Rest and reduce physical activity until your consultation
• Keep track of your sleep schedule and try to avoid overexertion
• Make sure you are drinking enough fluids, if there are no contraindications
• Take your usual medications as prescribed, if this is normally safe and there are no contraindications

What you should not do before the appointment

• Do not stop medications on your own without consulting a doctor
• Do not start new medications or supplements without checking with a doctor
• Do not use folk remedies that promise rapid improvement
• Do not try to interpret test results on your own
• Do not delay seeing a specialist if your condition worsens
• Do not change medication dosages or schedules without a doctor’s recommendation
• Do not ignore symptoms, even if they seem minor

If there are signs of worsening condition or any emergency symptoms, contact Dr. Shkinder Igor Stanislavovich immediately.

How I Can Help as a Doctor with Dementia

During a dementia consultation, I can help you understand the causes of the changes and find the best ways to support health. Together, we will assess the condition, discuss treatment options, and create a clear plan of action. During a dementia consultation, I can help you with the following:

• Review symptoms and medical history to identify possible causes of memory and thinking problems
• Assess the severity of symptoms and identify risk factors affecting the condition
• Review current medications and their tolerability to adjust treatment if needed
• Develop a plan for next steps: indicated tests, treatment, and regular follow-up
• Take comorbid conditions and medications into account for a comprehensive treatment approach
• Provide recommendations on routine and lifestyle, considering the patient’s individual characteristics
• Discuss monitoring criteria and when to return for another medical visit
• Carry out an initial diagnostic evaluation of the causes of the impairment, with emphasis on differential diagnosis
• Adjust treatment if the effect is insufficient or if side effects occur

A consultation helps clarify complex dementia-related issues, choose steps to support quality of life, and respond promptly to changes. Working with a doctor will help create a comprehensive treatment and follow-up plan tailored to your needs.

What questions can you ask a doctor about dementia?

At an appointment for dementia-related concerns, you can discuss the following with Igor Stanislavovich Shkinder:

• changes in memory and difficulty concentrating
• changes in behavior, irritability, or apathy
• slowed thinking and difficulty making decisions
• complaints of worsening orientation in time and place
• questions about adjusting prescribed treatment and medication tolerability
• recurring or worsening symptoms
• the need for a second opinion on an already established diagnosis
• difficulties that increase the burden in everyday life

If there is a sudden, sharp decline in memory, speech, or coordination, urgent medical care is needed — do not wait for a scheduled appointment.

• What is happening to me, and what could it be?
• Why did the memory problems appear now?
• How can I tell whether this is related to dementia or another condition?
• What examinations are needed to confirm the diagnosis?
• Which tests or studies are truly important for me?
• How should I prepare properly for examinations and the doctor’s appointment?
• What treatment and support options are available for dementia?
• Is it possible to get rid of the symptoms completely, or is this a chronic condition?
• Why isn’t the treatment working, and what should be done in that case?
• Can I manage without medication and other procedures?
• How long does treatment usually last, and how often do I need follow-up visits?
• What signs show that the condition is improving or getting worse?

Seeing a specialist helps clarify the causes of the symptoms and choose the most suitable support plan. The doctor will help determine which steps can improve quality of life and how to monitor changes properly. If necessary, they will refer you for additional examinations or to other specialists for a comprehensive approach.

How the consultation takes place

A neurology consultation for dementia-related concerns involves reviewing your complaints, assessing your condition, and creating a plan for next steps. The scope of the necessary examinations is determined individually and based on indications. It is not always possible to get a complete picture in a single appointment, so consistency and patience are important.

1. Clarifying the complaints and the purpose of the visit: when and how memory changes began, what is causing concern, and what you expect from the consultation.
2. Taking a medical history, including information about chronic illnesses and risk factors that may affect brain health.
3. Reviewing previous treatment and examinations — it is important to bring your results and a list of medications you are currently taking.
4. Performing an examination and simple tests to assess cognitive and neurological function, if necessary.
5. Discussing preliminary conclusions: what may be affecting the symptoms and which causes need to be ruled out.
6. Planning additional tests as indicated, for example:
   • MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
   • blood tests
   • neuropsychological testing
   • vascular studies of the head and neck
   • EEG (electroencephalography)
7. Developing an initial treatment plan and recommendations, taking into account the patient’s individual characteristics.
8. Discussing follow-up timing, signs of improvement or worsening, and when to schedule a return visit.

If this is your first visit, the consultation will focus on carefully clarifying the symptoms and looking for possible causes. If treatment has already been prescribed, the doctor will review its effectiveness and, if needed, adjust the approach to improve the outcome.

Preparing for Your Appointment

To make your neurology appointment as effective as possible and help determine the next steps more quickly, it is important to prepare in advance.

• Bring a list of all current medications, including names, dosages, and how you take them
• Bring the results of any previous examinations, scans, and lab tests, if available
• Write down your main symptoms: when they started, and what makes them worse or better
• Do not stop taking prescribed medications without consulting your doctor
• If you were advised to come on an empty stomach, do not eat or drink for 8–12 hours before the appointment (unless told otherwise)
• Do not use makeup, creams, or other facial products before the consultation if your doctor has instructed you to avoid them
• Prepare a list of questions you want to discuss during the appointment
• Come with someone else if you have difficulties with memory or communication
• If you are unsure about anything, clarify the details when scheduling the appointment

If you have any questions about preparation, it is best to check the information with the reception desk in advance. Do not change your medication regimen without consulting your doctor.

About the Doctor

Igor Stanislavovich Shkinder is a neurologist of the highest qualification category with over 20 years of experience. He specializes in working with patients who need an in-depth assessment of complex and ambiguous manifestations of dementia, including initial evaluations and patients with chronic conditions. In his practice, he pays close attention to the differential diagnosis of the causes of neurological impairment and to adjusting treatment with consideration of comorbidities. This approach helps determine the nature of the condition more accurately and choose the most appropriate next steps.

During the consultation, you will receive a clear explanation of the situation and recommendations for further management and monitoring of the condition.

Why patients choose Dr. Igor Stanislavovich Shkinder

When treating dementia, Igor Stanislavovich follows a step-by-step, systematic approach that helps him work through complex clinical situations while taking all relevant factors into account. Unlike the standard approach, he pays special attention not only to symptoms, but also to identifying the true causes of changes. The doctor considers the impact of comorbid conditions and medications, which helps reduce risks and improve the quality of treatment. During the appointment, the patient receives a clear and detailed action plan with specific criteria for evaluating results, as well as ongoing monitoring of the condition and prompt treatment adjustments.

• A clear treatment plan with a sequence of steps from diagnosis to monitoring and maintenance
• Tests are prescribed only when indicated, avoiding unnecessary procedures and expenses
• Consideration of comorbid diagnoses and drug interactions to ensure safe treatment selection
• Monitoring of changes in the patient’s health and timely adjustment of therapy if there is no effect
• Review of the results of previously performed examinations for a comprehensive understanding of the situation
• Explanation of treatment goals and possible risks in simple, accessible language
• Focus on preventing complications and maintaining long-term stability
• Experience in managing complex and chronic cases with an individualized approach to each patient

This approach makes it possible not just to prescribe treatment, but to build cooperation with the patient and their family for comprehensive support in dementia. An appointment with Igor Stanislavovich is recommended if diagnostic accuracy, safe management, and treatment adaptation during follow-up are important.

Case Studies

Initial consultation for worsening memory and attention

An elderly female patient presented with complaints of a gradual decline in memory and difficulty concentrating on simple tasks. It was important to rule out acute neurological conditions and identify the causes of cognitive decline. A comprehensive examination was performed, medical history was reviewed, and the necessary tests were ordered to assess brain function and metabolism. Over time, the symptoms stabilized and quality of life improved moderately. Regular follow-up is planned, with adjustment of support as needed.

Treatment adjustment due to lack of effect

A middle-aged man presented with persistent cognitive problems despite previously prescribed treatment at another clinic. His medical history was carefully reviewed, medication tolerance was assessed, and previously completed examinations were analyzed. The treatment approach was adjusted, taking into account comorbid conditions and side effects. At follow-up one month later, the patient reported a reduction in symptom severity and improved well-being. He continues to be monitored, with periodic treatment adjustments.

Chronic course in the setting of other medical conditions

An elderly female patient with long-standing memory impairment and concomitant cardiovascular disease sought consultation. A comprehensive assessment was carried out, taking into account interactions between the comorbidities and the effects of medications. An individualized management plan was developed, with monitoring of key health indicators and cognitive function. During follow-up, her condition remained stable and exacerbations were prevented. Regular visits are planned to monitor her condition and adjust therapy.

Exacerbation of cognitive impairment and condition management

A middle-aged male patient was admitted with a sudden worsening of memory and behavior, causing concern among family members. It was necessary to promptly rule out organic and infectious causes of deterioration. An urgent assessment was initiated, contributing factors were reviewed, and the supportive treatment plan was adjusted. Over time, the condition stabilized and the severity of acute symptoms decreased. A follow-up and prevention program has been planned to reduce the risk of further exacerbations.

Second opinion and diagnostic clarification

A young woman sought a consultation because of doubts about the accuracy of her diagnosis and the need for additional examinations. After reviewing the provided documents, the clinical picture was assessed and a comprehensive plan for further diagnostics was proposed. Explanations were provided regarding management options and possible treatment approaches. The patient received recommendations for symptom monitoring and a schedule for subsequent visits.

How long does the consultation last?

Usually, a consultation takes 30 to 60 minutes. Please уточняйте the exact time when booking.

How should I prepare for the appointment?

Write down your symptoms and the questions you would like to discuss, and bring a list of the medications you are taking.

What should I bring to the appointment?

Please bring the results of any previous examinations, scans, discharge summaries, and a list of your current medications.

Do I need to come on an empty stomach? Are there any restrictions?

Usually, there is no need to come fasting unless other instructions were given when booking.

How many visits are usually required?

The number of visits depends on the situation and the complexity of the case; usually, several appointments are needed.

When can I expect the first results of treatment?

Results vary from person to person. The doctor will discuss the expected timeline in your specific case.

What should I do if my condition worsens before the appointment?

If your condition worsens and you have dangerous symptoms, seek emergency medical care.

Can treatment be combined with my current medications?

We discuss all medications during the appointment. Do not change your treatment on your own.

Can I have an online consultation?

Yes, an online consultation is available by prior appointment.

Can I come with tests and examinations I have already done?

Yes, please bring all available results for a more accurate assessment.

Do I need to come back for follow-up appointments, and how often?

Follow-up visits are scheduled according to the treatment plan and the assessment of your progress.

Can I get a second opinion?

Yes, you can seek a second opinion from our specialist.

What should I do if symptoms return after improvement?

It is recommended to contact a doctor in time to adjust the treatment plan.

What examinations are needed for dementia?

The list of tests is determined individually; the doctor will choose the necessary ones based on indications.

Can I find out the treatment plan in advance?

The treatment approach is discussed after evaluating your condition and examination results.

Can I come with children or elderly relatives?

Yes, you may come with accompanying family members if help with communication is needed.

What should I do if I can’t make it to the appointment?

Please contact the clinic in advance to reschedule the visit or clarify next steps.