Preparing for a health care provider visit to evaluate dementia symptoms can feel overwhelming and make one anxious.  Knowing what to expect and how to prepare can make the process smoother, less stressful and more productive.  Having your thoughts together can significantly impact the accuracy and effectiveness of the diagnosis and care plan.  Here are some key steps to help you get ready for this important appointment.

Document Symptoms

Compile a detailed log of the symptoms that are concerning, such as forgetfulness, changes in ability to think, changes in personality or mood, agitation or confusion.  It’s important to note when the symptoms were first noticed, how frequently they occur, if they are more prominent during a certain time of the day, and if they impact your activities of daily living.

Medical Records

Gather a comprehensive list of your medical history, including past illnesses, hospitalizations, surgeries, allergies and all of your current medical diagnoses.  Include all prescribed medication – name, dose, frequency – as well as any over the counter and supplements you routinely take.

Questions and Concerns

Take time to focus on what questions you have and write them down ahead of time.  It’s easier to have a list to read from rather than feel pressured during the appointment to remember what your questions are.  If the healthcare provider recommends medication for your dementia symptoms, consider using this resource.  8 Questions to Ask Your Provider When a New Medication is Prescribed.

If the provider diagnoses you with dementia, please consider these questions:  

What factors determined this diagnosis?

Could there be any other underlying medical conditions that could cause my symptoms?                                                                            

Do I have a specific type of dementia?  

What treatment is available?  What are the possible adverse or side effects of the treatment?  

What lifestyle changes can I make?  How can I improve my brain health?

How may this progress over time and what planning is needed?

How will this affect my activities of daily living?

Cognitive Testing

Your healthcare provider may conduct cognitive testing during the appointment.  Don’t think of these as a test that you pass or fail, but as a guide that helps determine your abilities.  They may assess your memory, problem solving skills, attention to detail, or language skills.  Some tests take only a few minutes and others may take longer.

Support

Consider attending the appointment with someone you trust and who knows you well.  This is not only a support system for you, but they may be able to share their own observations with the healthcare provider.  It’s also beneficial to have a second person to help retain the information that the provider shared during the appointment.

Honesty

You may feel embarrassed about the dementia symptoms you are experiencing, but it’s essential that you discuss them honestly.  Relaying all of the details will help your healthcare provider make an accurate diagnosis, and in turn, develop an appropriate treatment plan.  If you don’t discuss all of the details, it’s like a piece of the puzzle is missing.

Follow Up

Be sure you understand what the next steps are following the initial appointment.  The healthcare provider may recommend further testing such as lab studies or imaging.  They may also refer you to another specialist or ask you to return to the office at a specific interval.  Ask for a written summary of the instructions as you are checking out.

Conclusion

By following this guide, you’re advocating for your health and ensuring that you and your healthcare provider have the information needed to make informed decisions.  Preparing for this important appointment will reduce stress levels and allow you to feel more confident during the discussion.  Early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in your quality of life and the management of symptoms.  

If you need help navigating through a new dementia diagnosis or dementia symptoms, please contact us at 410-259-0456 for personalized, tailored support for you and your family.  We provide expert, compassionate guidance every step of the way.