Bridgewater Cognition and Memory Service

In June 2024 the local Healthwise Memory Assessment Program (MAP) closed due to Government funding cuts, this left a gap in our elderly patient care. As a patient focused centre we have taken on the role of creating Bridgewater Cognition and Memory service as a new service available to our patients and to the New England.

We introduced Sr Daneile Allen to Bridgewater Cognition and Memory service as a Registered Nurse with Cognition training, to attend to the Cognition and Memory assessments of our patients and in turn write a comprehensive report back to Dr Nanda and their GP with consent from the patient.

This service is available to all, with the aim we can assist patients with their cognition and give advice to fill the gap in care needs by referring or recommending services for patients to stay as independent as possible in their own home.

As of June 2026, we have tended to over 300 assessments for our patients.

Domains covered in assessment: (Mandatory/recognised/targeted)

Cognitive and mood assessment tools, client support network- informal and formal, assessment of caregiver strain, identify community and residential Aged Care approvals, performance of activities of daily living, community access, alternate decision maker appointment, identify potential hazards, make suggestions for services or therapeutic strategies, caregiver education and emergency carer support agency contact details (if applicable).

Patients can be referred to the Bridgewater Cognition and Memory service solely for assessment, and/or can follow up with Dr Nihal Nanda to continue geriatric care.