How to prepare for a telemedicine visit about Memory Concerns in Children

Audience: pediatric

If you have concerns about your child's memory, a telemedicine visit can be a helpful first step to discuss symptoms with a healthcare provider. Telemedicine allows you to connect with a provider from home, saving time and making it easier to share observations. During the visit, the provider will ask about your child's memory changes, daily activities, and any other symptoms. They may also guide you on next steps, which could include in-person evaluations or tests if needed. It is important to prepare for the visit by noting specific examples of memory concerns and any related health information. Telemedicine can often address mild to moderate memory issues, but urgent or severe symptoms require immediate in-person care. Always watch for warning signs such as sudden confusion or difficulty speaking. This guide will help you prepare for the visit, understand what telemedicine can and cannot do, and know when to seek emergency care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden confusion or difficulty speaking — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe headache with weakness or loss of balance — go to the nearest emergency department.
• Sudden loss of consciousness or seizures — call emergency services right away.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild to moderate memory concerns.
• Review of symptoms and medical history.
• Providing advice on symptom monitoring.
• Referrals to specialists or for in-person testing.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical neurological examinations requiring hands-on assessment.
• Detailed cognitive testing or neuropsychological evaluations.
• Emergency situations such as sudden severe neurological symptoms.
• Brain imaging or laboratory tests that require in-person visits.

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Visit

During the telemedicine visit, the healthcare provider will ask about your child's memory concerns and overall health. They may inquire about when the memory issues started, how they affect daily life, and any other symptoms like changes in behavior or mood. The provider might ask you to describe specific examples to better understand the situation. They may also assess your child's communication and thinking skills through questions or simple tasks. Based on this, they will suggest possible next steps, which may include monitoring, in-person exams, or referrals to specialists.

How to Prepare for the Visit

To get the most from your telemedicine appointment, prepare ahead by:

When to Seek In-Person Care

Some memory concerns require prompt in-person evaluation. Seek immediate care if your child experiences:

For ongoing or worsening memory problems, your provider may recommend a face-to-face visit for detailed testing or imaging.

What Telemedicine Can and Cannot Do

Telemedicine can often:

Telemedicine cannot:

Understanding these limits helps you know when telemedicine is appropriate and when to seek in-person care.

After the Telemedicine Visit

After your appointment, follow any instructions given by your provider. This may include:

If new or worsening symptoms appear, seek emergency care promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down specific examples of your child's memory concerns.
• Note any other symptoms like mood changes or confusion.
• List all current medications and recent illnesses.
• Find a quiet, well-lit space with a stable internet connection.
• Have your child present if possible during the visit.
• Prepare questions you want to ask the healthcare provider.

After your tele-visit

• Monitor your child's symptoms and note any changes.
• Follow provider instructions and treatment plans.
• Schedule any recommended follow-up visits or tests.
• Keep a symptom diary to track progress.
• Seek emergency care if red flag symptoms appear.

FAQs

Can telemedicine visits diagnose memory problems in children?

Telemedicine visits can help healthcare providers understand your child's memory concerns and decide if further testing is needed. However, a full diagnosis often requires in-person exams and tests.

What should I do if my child's memory suddenly worsens?

If your child experiences sudden confusion, difficulty speaking, weakness, or loss of balance, seek emergency medical care immediately.

How can I help my child during a telemedicine visit?

Ensure your child is in a quiet, comfortable space with good lighting and a reliable internet connection. Be ready to provide specific examples of memory issues and any other symptoms you have noticed.

Will the provider prescribe medication during a telemedicine visit?

The provider may discuss treatment options, but prescribing medication depends on the assessment and may require in-person evaluation.

Is telemedicine safe for discussing sensitive health concerns?

Yes, telemedicine platforms use secure technology to protect your privacy, allowing you to discuss health concerns confidentially from home.

Sources

1. Memory Loss: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia — U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Telehealth: What You Need to Know — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Memory Problems in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
4. Telemedicine: Opportunities and Developments in Member States — World Health Organization (WHO).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If your child has urgent or severe symptoms, please seek immediate medical attention from a healthcare provider or emergency services.