I have read so many responses that others have posted about getting someone tested for dementia. I have just changed mom's doctor to one who supposedly deals with dementia, etc. in the elderly. This is the second doctor that has given her their "twenty questions" test, which mom passes and they are all surprised. Yes, she can remember the date, the day of the week, maybe the month and the year (sometimes), but she can't remember how to answer the phone, work the microwave or stove, take a shower, get dressed, take her meds properly, handle her own personal hygiene issues, or a number of other daily tasks without help. I have told her doctor this, but I can't seem to get them to help me with ordering more detailed testing to see where she is on the dementia line or what type she may be suffering from. How do I get this done and who do I go through to schedule it?
There are many types of dementia, and some of them affect memory first, while others may affect judgment or another type of functioning.
I'd try to get her in to a neurologist for a battery of tests. As one of the doctors for a referral. If he or she refuses, ask you own doctor how to go through your system so that she can be seen by a specialist.
Good luck,
Carol
Just wanted to say I couldn't agree with you more. The people in this situation should be seeing a specialist who will also take them seriously. I think some doctors get the mentality that just because their patient and the patient representative aren't doctors that they couldn't possibly know what they are talking about. It's ridiculous. They are dealing with human beings who have "real" problems. Especially for the daughters, sons, and others who are asking genuine questions about their loved ones health, they should be heard by the doctors. They know what goes on because they witness it first hand. I get frustrated with this type of thing because in the very early stages of Alzheimer's my MIL refused to believe she had a problem. She was in total denial about her memory loss and other strange things that were happening to her. I think she was probably just scared to find out something was wrong, which is completely understandable from her point of view. Now, she is in the late stages, bed-ridden, and needs constant care. I can't stress enough how much all the caregivers and patients NEED to find a doctor who will listen. Sometimes our relatives are stubborn, but we just have to push past it and find a way to get them to someone who can help them. Believe, me I know how frustrating it is to deal with someone who refuses to see they need help. I truly feel for all those on here who are only trying to do the best for their loved ones. God bless all of you and may He be with you and your loved ones in your struggles.
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