Dementia & supported ageing

cropped view of senior man playing with puzzles on table
As we age, it is normal to see a gradual deterioration in our memory and some other cognitive faculties.

However, for some people this decline can be more marked and debilitating than is normal and may be suggestive of dementia. In an ageing society, we see increased demands for NHS memory clinics, which can lead to delays in diagnosis, treatment and support. Alongside neuroimaging investigations (e.g. MRI scans), neuropsychological assessment is the gold standard approach to diagnosing dementia. Clinicians at Gray Matter are experts in dementia assessments, and our links with local psychiatrists and memory clinics means we are able to ensure that you receive appropriate support post-diagnosis.

cropped view of senior man playing with puzzles on table
Our patients can expect to receive:
  • A detailed clinical interview to better understand your concerns;
  • An assessment of risk factors that predict later development of dementia;
  • Psychometric screening to determine whether a more detailed memory assessment is required:
  • For those who do not show signs of significant memory decline, guidance is provided about lifestyle choices and cognitive tasks that can help reduce the likelihood of developing dementia
  • For those who are showing signs of memory decline and/or who are at high risk for dementia, we provide a detailed neuropsychometric assessment to establish whether there is any indication of dementia;
  • A baseline assessment against which any later declines in cognitive functioning can be measured against;
  • Post-diagnostic counselling for patients and their relatives to better understand their diagnosis and how to plan for the future;
  • Guidance around local services that can assist you in living with dementia;
  • Mental Capacity Assessments around decision making (e.g. testamentary capacity and appointing a Lasting Power of Attorney);
  • Strategies to help minimise the impact of memory decline on day-to-day functioning.
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Specialist clinicians that work around you.

We accept referrals from self-funders as well as solicitors, case managers, and other health and social care professionals. We provide domiciliary visits as well as the option of patients being seen at our office in north Oxford. We also offer the option of remote appointments as well as in-person sessions.

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Dr Gray is an exceptional neuropsychologist and of the highest calibre. He works excellently with clients, family and MDT in often challenging circumstances. He is my ‘go to’ neuropsychologist for all my clients and I look forward to working with him for future clients.

Anne Armitage, Case Manager, Bush & Co

A friend of my husband's recommended Dr Boothroyd after I began feeling increasingly frustrated with organisational tasks and mental load. As a woman in her 40s, I had a diagnosis of dyslexia from childhood but felt that my struggles were not fully explained by this. Dr Boothroyd took the time to listen to my concerns and my history from a personal and professional perspective. Following the assessment, he was able to diagnose ADHD and explain some of the options available for me to help manage the symptoms. I cannot explain how much of a game changer this has been for me as well as for my family.

Ms M. Osborne, former patient

I have known Dr Gray as a valued colleague for over 20 years and have frequently made referrals to him with confidence. I know him to be a conscientious, evidence-based and insightful clinician. He has a wide range of experience in assessment and rehabilitation across the lifespan in both inpatient and community settings.

Dr Richard Scott, Consultant Clinical Neuropsychologist, Litigation Expert

We approached Dr Gray after becoming concerned about my father-in-law’s cognitive abilities. From the initial appointment through to the diagnostic testing, Dr Gray was a pleasure to deal with. Patient, caring and incredibly knowledgeable, he was able to ascertain whether the issues were simply a case of ‘old age’ or something else. The report's thoroughness subsequently helped when approaching our GP, who commented that it ‘made their job much easier’ to work out an ongoing plan of action. I would highly recommend Gray Matters if you are in need of the services of a caring, compassionate psychologist.

Mr G. Taylor, relative of former patient