Articles
Alzheimer's and dementia care: 8 tips for doctor visits
1. Schedule wisely
2. Be prepared
3. Be specific
4. Take notes
5. Consider the future
6. Ask for referrals or recommendations
7. Deal promptly with conflict
Content
1. Complete necessary paperwork
2. Minimize stress
3. Keep a medication record
4. Be ready to ask and answer questions
5. Take notes
6. Discuss future care
7. Ask for recommendations
8. Leave with a plan
2. Minimize stress
For some people with dementia, talking about an appointment ahead of time may be helpful. For others, it may be stressful. Use past experiences as a guide. To minimize stress:
- Schedule appointments, when possible, during the best time of day for the person with dementia.
- Allow for plenty of time to travel.
- Bring a friend to serve as a back-seat companion for the person with dementia.
- Ask the doctor's office ahead of time if there is a quiet place to wait for the doctor.
- Bring a favorite book, magazine or activity for the waiting time.
- Focus on something enjoyable to do after the appointment, such as going out for a treat.
