What kind of doctor sees somebody for dementia?

Neuroscientists +: This could include psychiatrists, neurologists, & neuropsychologists. Geriatricians also see people with dementia. They can all be good. The important thing is to find someone who is accustomed to seeing dementia patients.

Dementia treatment: Family physicians and internists often see dementia in its earliest stages, and begin the evaluation and treatments for dementia. Most hospital and nursing home patients are treated by their primary care physicians, and their dementia as well. For those of us who are fortunate to have geriatric psychiatrists in our community, our patients care is improved by their expertise.

Family doctors: Family doctors typically are the first doctors to see dementia patients, but geriatricians and geriatric psychiatrist also do.

A Neurologist: The diagnosis and treatment of dementia is typically performed by a neurologist. Family practice physicians, internists and psychiatrists often recognize a patient with dementia first and will refer to a neurologist for confirmation of the diagnosis. Usually the refering md can then manage the patient. Geriatric psychiatrists specialize in management of problem behaviors due to dementia.