Memory & Aging Clinic

The UNM Memory & Aging Clinic is the only center in New Mexico devoted to the evaluation and management of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias including Lewy body dementia, Parkinson Disease Dementia, Frontotemporal Dementia, Vascular Dementia, and memory loss or cognitive impairment due to several other neurodegenerative disorders. Created in 2016 and currently led by Dr Rawan Tarawneh, MD, Chief of the Cognitive Neurology Section in the Department of Neurology, our center offers the region's most advanced care for cognitive and memory disorders in older adults. Our center also conducts several clinical research trials for AD and related dementias and healthy aging.

Our board-certified neurology team includes:

• Rawan Tarawneh, MD, Director of the Memory and Aging Clinic
• John Adair, MD
• Gladys Cook, CNP
• Janice E. Knoefel, MD

What to Expect at the First Visit 

During the first visit, we will thoroughly review the patient’s medical history, medications, and any previous testing. We will then perform a detailed neurological exam and assessment of cognitive functions. At the end of the first visit, we will discuss possible diagnoses and order additional testing that may be needed, including imaging and laboratory assessments. After the diagnostic assessment is completed on the first or second visit, we will discuss the treatment plan which may include starting symptomatic treatments to help stabilize memory, improve mood or sleep disturbance, and control behavioral changes.

Please bring the following:

• A family member who knows the patient well
• A list of active medications and allergies
• Please bring copies of prior brain imaging (head CT scans, brain MRIs, brain PET or DAT scans) and any results of prior neuropsychological testing done outside of the UNM system to your first visit. You can also send these to our clinic address before your appointment.

Call (505)-272-3160 to schedule an appointment.

Get a Referral

All patients should have a primary care provider (PCP) to help manage general medical conditions which may impact brain health, such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

We schedule new patient visits upon referral from your PCP or neurologist. We may need to contact your doctor to request prior medical records, including brain images and laboratory tests, to assist in our evaluations. We accept most PPO/HMO/POS plans. Please call your insurance carrier to verify benefits and coverage at University of New Mexico. If your insurance plan requires a referral [PDF] from your PCP, please get one to avoid personal charges for your visit. Referrals may be faxed to us at 505-272-9427.

Research & Clinical Trials

We participate in several research studies to examine new methods to diagnose, treat, and prevent memory and cognitive disorders. Clinic patients are usually asked about their interest in participating in research studies. Family members and caregivers may also be asked about participating in research as part of a control group.

Participation in any research program is voluntary. Declining to participate has no influence on any services provided by the Memory & Aging Clinic. Ask your cognitive neurologist for information about research that may apply to you or your family members.

Call 505-272-3315 for more information on current research studies.