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.
Here 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.
Learn the other eight must-know steps in this Info Article, plus:
- Critical questions to ask your loved one's doctor
- The best time to make arrangements if your loved one's diagnosis isn't reversible
- How to make your loved one feel more in control
- Necessary measures to prevent injuries at home
- What you should do if Dementia symptoms worsen
- And more!
This Info Article is one of many tools in our Caregiver Toolkit, to gain access to the full kit, visit here.