A basic MRI (or CT) of the brain is not much help in evaluating someone with memory loss. At best, it will only find an explanation for the memory concern 2% of the time.  An MRI with volumetric analysis is a specific type of MRI that has to be specifically ordered by your doctor.  It can quantitate or objectify the measurement of certain parts of the brain and compare your brain volumes with other people your age. Therefore, this study is recommended for the evaluation of memory loss — if you get an MRI at all.