My mother, who is 97, just saw her PCP. He has been recommending the last few visits that she see a neurologist, as she is getting quite forgetful. However, at her advanced age, I would expect her to be! She had a fall and fractured her hip in October, and it seems that, after that, her memory really started deteriorating. When the VNA asked her what year it was, she started to say, "19....." Her PCP quizzed her a little, like what's my name, who am I, which she got right, but she tries to "mask" that she really doesn't remember. What questions should I ask the neurologist? I'm wondering if it is really even worth the visit. At her retirement facility, they said there are certain drugs they can put her on to improve her memory (Aricept was one of the ones they mentioned), but I'm not really sure if the neurologist visit is just another inconclusive doctor visit. Anyone have an advanced age parent who has seen one?
Jinx, she, fortunately, did not have to have surgery to repair her hip fracture. I remember when my Dad had surgery several years ago, the anesthesia really did a number on him right afterwards, but he soon went back to regular mental functioning. Right now she only takes one prescription med for hypertension. She has enough trouble as it is remembering to take that pill.
Thanks again for your suggestions and support.
Or of course emotional stress can cause absentmindedness, forgetfulness, slow mental processes or slow speech, etc etc.
There may be other treatable things that MIMIC dementia. Nutrition etc. It's worth some study and persistence and second opinions from 'alternative' practiioners too.
Did she have surgery for her hip? Anesthesia can speed dementia.
I'm sort of with you about getting a new doctor to visit every 6 months. Make sure the dementia isn't reversible. Perhaps try an appropriate medication or two. Then say goodbye to the neurologist and let nature take its course.