There are just about a million questions that run through a person’s mind when they suspect their loved one may have Dementia. However, most of the questions focus on where to begin.
We have put together a few of the common concerns reported by clients when they begin their journey with their loved one.
You can begin by consulting one of the following people, your family doctor, a psychiatrist or a neurologist.
The person suspected with dementia and their primary caregiver. This person is usually a family member/ close friend or loved one. It is important for someone who spends a significant amount of time with the person to accompany them for this visit.
At your first visit, the doctor will ask you a detailed medical history, review current medication and details pertaining to any changes in the person’s life. They will conduct a physical exam (blood pressure, pulse rate and lung functioning). Depending on the details provided in this visit the doctor will recommend a few tests.
Mental status tests – the person is asked a series of questions that is specifically designed to assess the person’s mental functioning. In this they are asked questions pertaining to orientation, attention, calculation, recall, and comprehension. The person does not need to fast for this test.
For your neurological assessment ensure the time of the appointment is reflective of when the person suspected of dementia is alert and responsive.
Brain imaging – the person may be required to take a CT scan or MRI.
Blood tests – depending on the tests prescribed the person may need to fast. Please reconfirm with the pathologist.
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