Parker Wellness

03/26/2026

Did you know that there are numerous types of dementia? The most common type is Alzheimer’s disease, accounting for the majority of cases. Alzheimer’s disease is caused by abnormal buildup of proteins in the brain—primarily beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles—that damage and kill nerve cells. This leads to progressive loss of memory, thinking abilities, and other cognitive functions over time.

Vascular dementia is the second most common form and results from reduced blood flow to the brain, often due to strokes or small vessel disease. This lack of adequate blood supply deprives brain cells of oxygen and nutrients, leading to cognitive decline.
Lewy body dementia is caused by abnormal deposits of a protein called alpha-synuclein forming clumps (Lewy bodies) in brain cells. These deposits disrupt brain function, affecting thinking, behavior, and alertness. Lewy body dementia is characterized by fluctuations in attention, visual hallucinations, and movement symptoms similar to Parkinson’s disease.

Frontotemporal dementia is caused by progressive damage to the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, often due to abnormal buildup of proteins such as tau or TDP-43. This leads to changes in personality, behavior, language, and decision-making rather than memory deficits in its early stages. It often presents at earlier ages compared to other dementias.

Identifying the type of dementia is important because symptoms, progression, and management strategies can differ, allowing for more tailored care and support. If your loved one is showing signs of dementia, I would be glad to provide an in-home evaluation and start any recommended treatment. Please reach out to me at (865) 567-9517 or [email protected]. I would be happy to help!

Send a message to learn more

02/08/2026

What is Mild Cognitive Impairment? Why is it important to identify? Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a condition in which a person experiences noticeable changes in thinking abilities—such as memory, attention, or decision-making—that are greater than expected with normal aging but not severe enough to significantly interfere with daily life. People with MCI can usually remain independent, yet they or those close to them may notice increasing forgetfulness or mental slowing. Identifying MCI is important because it can be an early warning sign of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, allowing for closer monitoring, early intervention, and lifestyle changes that may help slow cognitive decline. Early recognition also helps individuals and families plan for the future, address reversible causes of cognitive changes, and access appropriate medical care and support. If your loved one is showing signs of MCI or dementia, I would be glad to provide an in-home evaluation and start any recommended treatment. Please reach out to me at (865) 567-9517 or [email protected]. I would be happy to help!

Send a message to learn more

01/16/2026

What is dementia? Dementia is the loss of cognitive functioning to such an extent that it interferes with a person's daily life and activities. Some people with dementia cannot control their emotions, and their personalities may change.

Dementia is not a single disease but an umbrella term that describes a range of symptoms associated with a decline in cognitive function. This decline can affect memory, language, problem-solving, and other thinking abilities, making it difficult for individuals to perform everyday activities. It is important to note that dementia is not a normal part of aging, although it is more common in older adults. Early detection and treatment can slow the progression of the disease, buying time and quality of life, allowing for prolonged independence and delaying the possible need for placement in a care facility. If you are interested in an in-home evaluation for a loved one, you can reach me at [email protected] or (865) 567-9517.

Send a message to learn more

12/22/2025

Early diagnosis of dementia matters! Starting treatment and support sooner helps people plan, stay independent longer, and address reversible issues (like medication side effects, depression, or sleep problems).

12/02/2025

Providing psychiatric consultations - both in the hospital and in outpatient settings - in the Knoxville area for the past 20 years has made one thing clear: our community has a significant number of individuals (and supportive family members) struggling with dementia-related symptoms, yet there are far too few available resources. Many people are waiting months to a year or more for help while they continue to suffer. By combining extensive knowledge and experience with sensitive, compassionate care, I aim to bridge this gap by providing in-home evaluations and treatment in a timely manner. I currently have readily available appointments. Please contact me to discuss scheduling an appointment.
(865) 567-9517 or [email protected]
(Private-Pay, please contact for more information)

11/17/2025

Today, I am pleased to announce that I am now accepting referrals for in-home (or facility) evaluations and treatment for dementia and dementia-related mood and behavioral symptoms. These (private-pay) home visits will include a cognitive evaluation with careful consideration for the impact of concurrent medical problems and medications. For over 25 years, I have provided evaluations and treatment for dementia and dementia-related symptoms, including the last 20 years working in the hospital setting, often treating patients who are suffering from severe deficits including mood and behavioral symptoms. My evaluations involve careful consideration of the effects of concurrent medical problems (both acute and chronic) and medications (including drug interactions). At times, patients may appear to have dementia when the symptoms are actually medically-induced. At other times, symptoms of dementia develop so insidiously that they are not identified by family members. While dementia is not yet curable, there are effective treatments for mood and behavioral symptoms, and some treatments (particularly when started early) can slow the progression of certain types of dementia, buying time and quality of life. Treatments can also lead to the patient maintaining independence, being more manageable in the home setting, and delaying or avoiding the need for placement outside the home. If you are interested in having your loved one evaluated for dementia and dementia-related mood and behavioral symptoms, you can reach me at (865) 567-9517 or via email at [email protected].