Swank Center for Memory Care and Geriatric Consultation at ChristianaCare is Delaware’s first and most comprehensive outpatient office for patients with memory disorders and their families. Approximately 18,000 people across Delaware are coping with Alzheimer’s disease or a related disorder. The Swank Center for Memory Care and Geriatric Consultation offers these patients and their families essential support, education and guidance from diagnosis through treatment.
The Swank Center for Memory Care and Geriatric Consultation at ChristianaCare is Delaware’s first and most comprehensive outpatient office for patients with memory disorders and their families.
The Swank Center can help in many ways. Our multidisciplinary team allows input from clinicians skilled in geriatric consultation. Our social worker, community educator, psychiatrist, and neurologist provide additional input, working together to conduct a comprehensive memory assessment. We collaborate with primary care clinicians, refer to appropriate specialists, schedule appointments, coordinate care, discuss treatment, review caregiving options, and provide vital follow-up care.
The Swank Center is here for you and your significant other with the support you need every step of the way. For consultations, please call us at 302-320-2620.
“The Swank Center for Memory Care and Geriatric Consultation stands alone. It is the only place that was there for not only the patient, but was a constant source of support for the caregiver and family.”
– A grateful caregiver
It depends on the root cause of the memory problem. However, by adopting healthy habits, there is a chance you may enhance your memory or delay memory problems. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, adequate sleep, social engagement, and stress reduction will improve your health overall and may benefit your cognitive functioning too. In addition, some research suggests that keeping your mind active by learning new skills or “exercising” the brain with challenging activities such as puzzles can help keep the mind and memory sharp.
While there is evidence that some memory disorders can be passed down through family members, there are a number of lifestyle factors that affect the memory. Some factors that may affect the memory include:
The Swank Center for Memory Care and Geriatric Consultation can help in many ways. Our multidisciplinary team allows input from geriatricians (doctors focused on elder care), as well as from our geriatric psychiatrist, nurse practitioner, medical assistant, social worker, community educator and administrative staff. This team works together to conduct a comprehensive memory assessment, collaborate with primary care clinicians, refer to appropriate specialists, schedule appointments, coordinate care, discuss treatment, caregiving options, and provide vital follow-up care. We are here for you and your significant other with the support you need every step of the way. For consultations, please call us at 302-320-2620.
Following a comprehensive medical history and physical examination, clinicians at the Swank Center for Memory Care and Geriatric Consultation will employ a series of assessments that test for neurological, psychological and cognitive function. Additional evaluation by neurologists, geriatric psychiatrists or other behavioral health specialists may be necessary, as well as testing of blood and urine, and imaging tests such as a CAT scan or MRI. Our staff can provide referrals and help you make appointments with these specialists, as necessary.
A geriatric assessment is a 1.5 hour assessment of medical history and physical examination with a comprehensive healthcare focus.
A memory assessment focuses primarily on memory impairment. This consultation will also address medication management, evaluation and treatment of dementia, patient and caregiver education, and psychosocial needs.
Please allow adequate time for registration and parking. A memory assessment or geriatric consultation takes approximately 1.5 hours with the clinician, so please arrive 30 min before that meeting to begin your visit with the registration process. Allow 2 hours for the total visit. This is more information for appointment scheduling.
Yes, please call 302-320-2620 for more information.
No, you do not need a referral to make an appointment at the Swank Center for Memory Care and Geriatric Consultation. Please call 302-320-2620 to schedule an appointment.
If you or a loved one has a problem with memory or another cognitive ability, we may be able to help
At the Swank Center for Memory Care and Geriatric Consultation, we are here to support you and your family during the diagnosis and treatment of your memory disorder.
Our multidisciplinary team offers:
The Swank Foundation Endowed Chair in Memory Care and Geriatrics
Patricia M. Curtin, MD, FACP
Director, Clinical Strategy and Community Affairs
Lynsey E. Brandt, MD
Geriatrician
Carolyn O. Ianni, MD
Geriatrician
Joseph S. Handler, MD
Neurologist
Michelle K. Ritona, FNP
Family Nurse Practitioner
Alexandra Nixon, AGPCNP
Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Cyndy Fanning, MSW, LCSW
Senior Social Worker, Program Manager
Peachy Tabangin-Griffin, MSS, LCSW
Senior Social Worker
Salila Shen, MSW, LCSW
Senior Social Worker
Please consider making a gift today to the Swank Center for Memory Care and Geriatric Consultation.
Prevent or slow memory loss.
A podcast series from Delaware’s first and most comprehensive outpatient office for patients with memory disorders.
Swank Memory Ambassadors are trained clinician volunteers committed to helping you learn more about memory disorders with a focus on enhancing brain health through free, confidential screening and memory wellness education programs. We have helpful tips to share about nutrition, physical activity, mental stimulation and fall prevention.
Turn to the Swank Center for Memory Care and Geriatric Consultation during this challenging time.
Wilmington Hospital
501 W. 14th Street
Gateway Building, 5th Floor
Wilmington, DE 19801