I Need Advice

[The Printer]

Hi everybody i'm new to this. My mother is having problems. She has had tests for alzheimers which are negative. There is clearly a problem and my father is sometimes at the end of his tether. She thinks theres nothing wrong but people around her know there is.
How do you get diagnosed for this complaint ?
Alzheimer's ? Dementia ? How do you differentiate and get to root of problem.

From a concerned son

 

[Sandy]

Hi The Printer,

Welcome to Talking Point.

Perhaps the best place to read about getting a diagnosis is on the Alzheimer's Society's main web site. There is a section devoted to that topic :

http://www.alzheimers.org.uk/How_is_dementia_diagnosed/index.htm

I think most people start with an appointment with their GP. It's usually quite important that another relative or friend goes along as well to make sure that the GP gets a true picutre (this may also be done by letter prior to the appointment).

Do you know exactly what medical appointments she has had (and who has gone with her to them) and what tests have been done?

Take care,

Sandy

 

[Brucie]

Hello The Printer

can you say what the problems are, as far as you know?

Alzheimer's ? Dementia ? How do you differentiate and get to root of problem.

Alzheimers IS a dementia. The differentiation is done by the consultant, though there is a certain common thread of basic symptoms with most dementias.

You don't really ever get to the root of the problem, as such, as no-one knows what causes it. You just find out what is the best way to treat the symptoms and keep the patient safe.

As Sandy says, the GP is the first step.

 

[Norman]

Hi Printer
Welcome to Talking Point.
The GP is the gateway to all advice and help,it may help to have a look at this fact sheet

http://www.alzheimers.org.uk/Facts_about_dementia/What_is_dementia/info_dementia.htm
Best Wishes
Norman