Psychology Problems Advice Info

If a parent or other family member has started to show signs of dementia or possible Alzheimer’s disease, you may feel overwhelmed and unable to figure out what to do. Your most important priority is to get a diagnosis. The earlier you can put a name to the problem, the easier it is to organize a care plan.

There’s no single test for Alzheimer’s disease or most other dementias. In fact, a definitive diagnosis can only be made after death, by examining brain tissue for telltale changes. But doctors can make a probable diagnosis of Alzheimer’s with as much as 90 percent certainty. Start here:

It’s almost always family members, more than physicians, who spot the first signs of Alzheimer’s disease. Start by writing down observations that you and others make of the person you’re concerned about. You’ll be better able to notice patterns or changes in the frequency of certain behaviors than if you keep a mental record. This evidence is incredibly useful when you speak with medical professionals and may even help when discussing the topic with family and friends.

This same notebook can also serve as your “playbook” throughout your family’s journey, a central source of all the information that will be needed not only to make a diagnosis but to formulate an ongoing care plan. Having all the information you need in one place can be a valuable shortcut for families.

What to record:

Try to include as much information as you can about the person’s condition — not just things that you think are typically associated with Alzheimer’s. Other medical issues or unexpected changes (such as falling or incontinence) can be related to the disease.

As soon as you suspect Alzheimer’s, invest a little time in getting more familiar with the disease. There are lots of Alzheimer’s Association’s Brain Tour and learn how the brain works and how Alzheimer’s affects it.

With the observations you’ve made of the person you’re concerned about and a basic foundation of knowledge about Alzheimer’s, you’re ready to consult with a medical professional.

The doctor will use evidence from a careful exam and a process of elimination to arrive at a diagnosis. A combination of diagnostic tools enables him to screen for conditions that may be affecting your loved one. Here’s a quick breakdown:

When Alzheimer’s disease is suspected or diagnosed, the doctor may recommend seeing a specialist, such as a neurologist, psychiatrist, or geriatrician. This specialist will help confirm the primary diagnosis and advise you on Alzheimer’s care. He can also answer specific questions you may have about disease, its treatment, and caregiving, and he may be able to direct you to other helpful resources and support groups.

It’s often advisable to seek a second opinion about your family member’s condition (whether the diagnosis is probable Alzheimer’s or not), especially if you or the doctor is uncertain about it. Another experienced, skilled physician can review the findings of the tests and evaluations he or she has already undergone.

There’s no single timetable for how the disease progresses, and your loved one may have many satisfying years ahead. Do what you can to ameliorate the symptoms, so that you can prolong his or her independence and dignity.