The Walker Memory Center

Many people worry about whether the memory changes they notice — in themselves or someone they care about — are a result of normal aging, or something more serious.  A comprehensive evaluation answers this question.

Signs That a Memory Evaluation Is Warranted

• Frequent repetition of questions
• Increased frequency of misplacing things
• Missing appointments
• Withdrawal from social activities
• Difficulties in conversation – difficulty finding words or losing the train of thought
• Problems with driving – disorientation, getting lost, bumps and scrapes, driving too slowly
• Memory changes that disrupt daily life—difficulty keeping track of finances or medications

There are many possible causes of changes in memory and thinking  — such as vascular disease, sleep apnea, depression, medication side effects, Alzheimer’s disease, and many more. It is important to understand the cause of a problem in order to treat it correctly.  If you are concerned about yourself or someone you care about, early, accurate diagnosis is the first step towards appropriate treatment.

A comprehensive memory/cognitive evaluation typically occurs over a series of appointments and may involve a number of medical disciplines.  The process concludes with a feedback meeting with all parties, including the patient and interested family members, to review test results and recommendations. Evaluation reports are then forwarded to the patient’s other medical providers for follow-up medical care.

An appointment at the Walker Memory Center can be arranged by either of the following procedures:

The Willard and Pat Walker Charitable Foundation, Inc. created the Walker Memory Center of the Reynolds Institute on Aging in 2005 with a $5 million gift.  The Walker’s are one of Arkansas’ most philanthropic families, and as quoted by Frank Broyles: “The Walker family is known by how much they care, rather than caring how much they are known.”  The Center initially served as headquarters for one of 29 centers nationwide developed with grants from National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Today, basic science research at the Reynolds Institute focuses on the microbiological mechanisms that lead to Alzheimer’s dementia.  Important findings have included the discovery of  a link between proteins secreted by cells that control inflammation and the increase probability of onset of Alzheimer’s disease. This discovery by our researchers was considered a significant breakthrough in the early detection and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.

To contact the Walker Memory Center, please call 501-526-6884.