Steps to Take After a Memory Issue is Recognized

The days following a loved one’s dementia or Alzheimer’s diagnosis can be difficult and filled with emotion. For many, the lack of knowledge is often scarier than the diagnosis itself as you have no idea what to do, what to expect or how you’re supposed to help.

We’ll examine this topic and discuss those critical first steps to take following this type of diagnosis, as well as how you can provide the best care possible.

STEP 1: CONSULT A SPECIALIST.

Alzheimer’s and dementia diagnoses are often made at the hospital following a significant event or at a primary care physician’s office after the onset of some cognitive symptoms. However, if you or your loved one haven’t spoken to a neurological specialist, it’s highly recommended.

This is because dementia isn’t always caused by unstoppable neurological degeneration. It can result from several medical conditions, such as heart disease, intracranial pressure, or a mass located at certain spots within the body. It can also be the result of certain medications, such as anticholinergic and bladder antimuscarinic (bladder suppressant) drugs. If this is the case, you’ll want to know so you can obtain the most effective treatment.

STEP 2: CONSIDER YOUR OPTIONS.

Alzheimer’s and dementia don’t currently have cures, but there are treatments and medications available to help improve

symptoms. Make sure you talk this possibility over with your loved one’s doctor and keep up to date on new findings and treatment options.

Questions to ask your loved one’s doctor:

• What tools or tests were used to determine a diagnosis?

What were you measuring? • What is causing the illness? • What are the treatment options available? • What symptoms are alleviated by each medication and are there any side effects? • Are there any clinical trials available and where can I find additional information on those? • How will the disease progress? • What forms of care are available to help my loved one live with the disease?

You should also be considering what long-term care may look like. For most adults with a memory-targeting illness, longterm care often involves professional at-home caregivers or a specialized 24-hour facility.

STEP 3: TAKE CARE OF EMOTIONAL NEEDS.

Receiving a degenerative memory diagnosis is never easy, and it’s important to recognize and cope with any emotions you may have. Although your loved one is still around, feelings of loss, anger and fear are common. Coming to terms with the diagnosis will help you and your loved one move forward and discover new ways to live a positive and fulfilling life.

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There’s more of this article in our free Caregiver Toolkit. To learn more critical first steps, visit srgtexas.com/getcaregivertoolkit

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