<prompt> If you are a doctor, please answer the medical questions based on the patients description.My Mother is 73 just had an MRI with contrast findings were diffuse microvascular Ischemic changes is on aricept and lexapro . Neurologist is not very forthcoming is this alzheimers has sever memory issues and as a family we need to know what to expect. no diagnosis given. seems reluctanct to talk in front of my mother doesn t want to aggitate her. Her frustration level is high. But we need some answers. can you help  <response>: Hi, Thank you for posting your query. Alzheimers disease is a progressive disease characterized by memory loss and loss of other cognitive functions. It is a clinical diagnosis based on the assessment of brain functions by a doctor. MRI can help in diagnosis, but is not specific for Alzheimers disease. Please discuss with your neurologist regarding the diagnosis and prognosis of your mothers illness. I am sure he would help you and your family. Best wishes, Chat Doctor. 