Memory Clinic
As part of our Memory Clinic, we carry out assessments in cases of suspected dementia. This includes a clinical-neurological examination by a doctor, a standardized, hypothesis-driven clinical-neuropsychological examination and, depending on the situation, laboratory and cerebrospinal fluid examinations as well as imaging procedures such as MRI or PET. Where possible, relatives are also involved. The diagnosis is made as part of an interdisciplinary neurological-neuropsychological discussion, in which we also develop an individual therapy concept. We establish contact with external care and advice centers and support our patients through regular follow-up consultations. We offer this process from diagnosis to treatment and support planning at the high quality level to which we are committed as a member of the Association of Swiss Memory Clinics.
Neuropsychology
The aim of the clinical neuropsychological examination is a comprehensive examination and assessment of the various cognitive functional areas (perception, concentration/attention, learning/memory, executive functions, language, visuo-construction) as well as a description of behavior and emotions. The instruments used are an inventory of standardized and normed neuropsychological test procedures, which are compiled individually and hypothesis-oriented for each patient. The results of the neuropsychological examination are relevant for both clinical (e.g. differential diagnosis, rehabilitation indication) and everyday issues (e.g. ability to work, judgment, fitness to drive). After the examination, the results are discussed with the patient and relatives and recommendations are made for the next steps. If desired, recommendations for possible guided or independent neurocognitive training (including computer-assisted home training) for stimulation, selective restitution or compensation of (impaired) brain functions and, if necessary, psychotherapeutic support can be made after the diagnostic examination.
Information sheet for those interested in a clinical internship in the Neuropsychology Department:
Information sheet Internship
Special examinations and expertise
We offer the following clarifications:
- Neuropsychological assessments for neurological diseases such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, encephalitis, craniocerebral trauma, etc.
- Neuropsychological examinations for suspected neurodegenerative diseases (see Memory Clinic)
- Clarification of any organic components of psychiatric illnesses
- Intelligence testing
- Assessment of the ability to work
- Assessment of judgment
We also offer the following special examinations:
- Intraoperative speech monitoring during awake brain surgery
- Clarification of possible contraindications before DBS/FUS treatment in Parkinson’s syndrome or essential tremor
- Assessment and clarification of possible cognitive contraindications before organ transplantation
- Clarification of suspected attention deficit disorder (ADD / ADHD)
- Quantification of cognitive disorders in diagnosed autism spectrum disorders
- Dyslexia assessment, e.g. with regard to compensation for disadvantages (combined neuropsychological-logopaedic assessments – see below)
- Neuropsychological examinations, in particular dementia assessments, for people with Down’s syndrome (trisomy 21) and other intellectual development disorders
Teaching
We regularly give lectures on topics in neuropsychology as part of the courses in medicine (University of Zurich) and neuroscience (University of Zurich and ETH Zurich).
We also attach great importance to the training of students (internships, Master’s theses) and postgraduate psychologists. Our department is recognized as a training institution for the EAN course and we offer regular internal supervision and case discussions.
Research
As a neuropsychology department at a university hospital, a close connection between clinical work and research is of great importance to us. We conduct various studies with internal and external project partners. On this page you will find a description of our current projects and publications.
Research
Speech therapy
We carry out speech therapy assessments and therapies for speech and language disorders. Assessments for suspected reading and spelling difficulties (dyslexia) include a speech therapy and neuropsychological assessment. Here you will find the speech therapy department of the Clinic for Neurology.
Information for our patients
An appointment with us usually lasts between two and three hours. During this time, we first discuss the patient’s medical history, in particular the current symptoms, after which the actual neuropsychological examination takes place, including various tasks relating to attention/concentration, memory and other areas. It is important to us to create a friendly, respectful and pleasant atmosphere. After the examination, we evaluate the tasks while you can take a 20-minute break. We then discuss the results and the resulting recommendations with you.
Important: Bring any previous findings (neuropsychological, medical) with you to the examination. If you have difficulty speaking or understanding German, please bring another person with you to translate.
