We made an appointment today to begin the process for Dad to see a doctor. He has declined mentally and physically for years, but as a very stubborn doctor himself, has never been seen or assessed.
Wondering what kind of testing would accurately determine whether one has dementia or Alzheimer’s, and how do you distinguish them apart in testing? Is there a superior method? Can any measure test how severe it is?
What questions should I be asking the doctor and what can I expect in terms of initial intake and recommendations? There is no health insurance and though he is 83, he has not used Medicare. All of this will be out of our pocket, but we need to do something yesterday - simple things like a handicap tag, a walker, and occasional help would help us tremendously. If he suddenly declines, I am terrified we have no plan. Can’t just pull up to a home and say here he is! And drop him off. Been in denial of how bad it’s been for awhile and we need help on how to get the most accurate diagnosis and what he needs, especially because there’s no coverage.
I'm curious, if he has medicare, why do you say he has no insurance? Medicare IS insurance.
There are various causes of dementia, with Alzheimer's being the far most prevalent. The MOCA and MMSE are good, quick, non-invasive tests for diagnosing dementia and, as I understand it, help doctors who specialize in dementia determine the root cause, but are not precise in that regard. I think either of those tests is a good place to start and if dementia is indicated, then there should be a discussion about whether more invasive testing is warranted.
My mom, with vascular dementia
was still scoring 15/15 on minimentals until way late in her progression. But she couldn't REASON!
There were adequate memory skills but no executive functioning, sequencing or reasoning skills. This is a reason to get a full neuropsych workup. It tells the whole story.
I agree with GenKazdin to start the education process. My mother has died, but my father now also has dementia. This website has been extremely valuable, not only for legal suggestions, but also helpful hints on know how to understand and survive dealing with our confused loved ones. : )
My sister and I were able to get a Personal Services Contract that protected some of my dad's assets. Medicaid Done Right was extremely helpful in getting him on Medicaid. We found a wonderful assisted living facility. My dad is very happy and my sister and I have gone from being nursemaids and house cleaners back to being his daughters. Our time together now is precious.
Hang in there.