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
5. Take notes
Take notes during the appointment. You might also invite a friend to take notes or record the conversation. If you don't understand something the doctor tells you, ask for clarification.
If the doctor prescribes a new medication or adjusts a dosage, record the following:
- Name of the drug
- Instructions for taking the drug
- Reason for taking the drug or for adjusting dosage
- Possible side effects
- Instructions for when to call the doctor or to stop taking the drug
