Assoc Prof Dennis Seow is a Senior Consultant in the Department of Geriatric Medicine at Singapore General Hospital and Service Chief of the SingHealth Duke-NUS Memory and Cognitive Disorder Centre.
His listed clinical interests include memory and cognitive disorders, recurrent falls and general geriatric care. His profile notes involvement in establishing an ortho-geriatric medicine programme and a dedicated dementia care ward.
Clinical focus
Memory & dementia.
Qualifications (as publicly listed)
MBBS, MRCP (UK), FRCP (Edin), FAMS (Geriatric Medicine).
Where they practise
- Clinic / practice: Department of Geriatric Medicine, Singapore General Hospital
- Hospital / training affiliation(s): Singapore General Hospital
Getting to the clinic
Assoc Prof Dennis Seow is a Senior Consultant in the Department of Geriatric Medicine at Singapore General Hospital (SGH) in Outram, the country’s largest hospital campus, and Service Chief of the SingHealth Duke-NUS Memory and Cognitive Disorder Centre. The nearest rail station is Outram Park MRT (EW16 / NE3 / TE17), an interchange on the East-West, North East and Thomson-East Coast lines, which makes the hospital well connected from across the island. The station links towards the SGH campus, with partly sheltered walking routes; patients with limited mobility may prefer a taxi or ride-hailing car to the relevant building entrance. Many bus services stop near the campus, and internal shuttle buses run between buildings.
For drivers, SGH has visitor carparks with the usual paid hourly charges for a public hospital; arriving early helps during busy morning clinics. Because the campus is large and spread across several blocks, confirm which building and clinic you need when you book, and allow time to find your way. Drop-off points near the entrances let a family member set down an older patient before parking, and internal shuttles help with longer distances. Wheelchairs and assistance can usually be arranged at the concourse on request, which is worth noting for memory-clinic patients who may find a large campus disorientating.
What memory and dementia care covers
Assoc Prof Seow’s focus is on memory and dementia, with listed interests also including recurrent falls and general geriatric care. Memory and cognitive disorders cover a range of conditions in which memory, thinking, language, attention or judgement decline, including the various forms of dementia such as Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia, mild cognitive impairment, and reversible causes of confusion. Delirium, an acute and often fluctuating confusion usually triggered by illness or medication, is an important and frequently treatable problem in older people.
Assessment in this field aims to clarify whether a memory or thinking problem is present, how significant it is, what is causing it, and what can be done, since some causes are treatable. Care extends beyond diagnosis to supporting both the person and their family, managing symptoms, addressing safety, and planning ahead. Because falls and cognitive problems often occur together in older people, the two areas frequently overlap, and a memory assessment may sit within a broader review of general health and safety.
What to expect at a consultation
A consultation for memory concerns is usually detailed and may take time. The doctor asks about the changes noticed, when they began, how they have progressed, and how they affect daily life. Information from a family member or close companion is often invaluable, as the person may not be fully aware of the changes. The doctor also reviews other medical conditions, medications, mood, sleep and any falls.
The assessment commonly includes cognitive testing, a physical and neurological examination, and a review of medications that might affect thinking. Investigations may include blood tests to look for reversible contributors and, in some cases, brain imaging. The doctor then explains the findings, sets out the likely diagnosis, and proposes a plan that may include treatment, support for the family, safety advice and follow-up. Time is given for questions, since understanding the condition helps families plan and cope.
Preparing for your appointment
Helpful items to bring include:
- Photo identification and any GP or polyclinic referral letter.
- Previous medical records, blood results and any brain scans.
- A complete list of all medications and supplements, or the actual boxes.
- Glasses and hearing aids if used, as sensory problems can affect testing.
- A written account of the memory changes noticed and a list of questions.
It is very helpful to bring a family member or close companion who can describe the changes and the daily routine. Noting specific examples of memory or thinking difficulties, with rough dates, gives a clearer picture than general impressions. If there have been any falls, note these too, as they may be relevant.
After your consultation and follow-up
After the visit you may need to wait for blood results or a brain scan before a diagnosis is confirmed; these are usually discussed at a follow-up appointment. Memory and dementia care is typically ongoing, with reviews to monitor progress, adjust treatment and support the family over time. Referrals to other services, such as community support or allied health, may be arranged. Continuity with the same team helps track changes and maintain a consistent plan. You can seek a second opinion at any stage. Seek urgent care for sudden confusion, a marked or rapid change in behaviour, a fall with injury, or symptoms such as weakness or slurred speech that could indicate an acute problem.
Booking, referrals and fees
As SGH is a public hospital, a referral from a GP or polyclinic can help you access subsidised care and is often the usual route in. Some investigations may attract MediSave use within set limits for eligible patients, while consultations are generally payable with subsidy depending on eligibility; these rules change periodically, so confirm current eligibility with the hospital. Because the exact tests vary, ask for guidance on likely costs and check your insurance coverage before proceeding.
Common questions
Is memory loss always dementia?
No. Memory problems can have many causes, some reversible, such as medication effects, thyroid problems, low mood or sleep disturbance. A proper assessment helps distinguish these.
What is the difference between delirium and dementia?
Delirium is an acute, often fluctuating confusion usually triggered by illness or medication, and is frequently treatable. Dementia is a more gradual, longer-term decline. The two can coexist.
Should a family member attend?
Yes, and it is strongly encouraged. Family observations are often essential to an accurate memory assessment.
Can anything be done after a dementia diagnosis?
Yes. Treatment, symptom management, family support, safety planning and follow-up can all help maintain function and quality of life.
Related guides
Sources & verification
See also: our editorial directory of geriatricians (doctors for older adults) in Singapore and our shortlist of geriatric clinics.
This is an independent, factual profile compiled from the public sources listed above — not a paid listing, advertisement or endorsement. Details can change; always verify a doctor’s current registration on the Singapore Medical Council public register and confirm specifics directly with the clinic. This page is general information, not medical advice or a recommendation of any individual practitioner. See our editorial policy.
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