Waiting on Diagnosis

[Sharon143]

Morning, my name is Sharon (58) and my husband Patrick (68) was seen by doctor in Dec 2022 got score of 63 on test. Seen Dementia clinic in April, accessor came 5 weeks ago waiting on outcome. But Patrick has no empathy, no apathy, cannot remember old houses, past friends, holidays. Missing understanding of lots of words, they just do not exist. Very repetitive, OCD in eating times, what he eats. Fills in blanks with his own stories. Forgets conversations you have within an hour. Drinks too much alcohol, obsessed with smoking and driving. Getting concerned about his driving, but he says he is fine. Started taking photos of car to see if any new scrapes.
Just wanting confirmation, as not coping with the totally alien person who I am now living with.

 

[northumbrian_k]

Hi @Sharon143 and welcome to our supportive and friendly community. I am sorry to hear about your husband. Getting confirmation of his diagnosis will be helpful in planning ahead and understanding likely care needs. If you haven't already it may be worth applying to your local social services for an adult needs assessment for him and a carer's assessment for yourself. In terms of finance and future decisions on healthcare, setting up Lasting Power of Attorney would be a great idea. I enclose some useful links, including one about driving and dementia.

There's a lot to take in but try not to feel overwhelmed. Come back here with any questions or issues and we will try to help.

Assessment for care and support in England

What are care assessments and how can people with dementia and their carers access them? This information is for care and support in England.

www.alzheimers.org.uk

Lasting power of attorney for people with dementia

A Lasting power of attorney (LPA) is a legal tool that lets you choose someone you trust to make decisions for you. There are two different types of LPA: property and affairs LPA and health and welfare LPA. LPAs can make things easier for you and the people you are close to as your dementia...

www.alzheimers.org.uk

Driving and dementia

A diagnosis of dementia is not in itself a reason to stop driving. One in three people with dementia still drives. However, over time, dementia affects the skills needed for safe driving.

www.alzheimers.org.uk

 

[Sharon143]

Thank you, posting LPA today for registration. Hopefully will receive doctors letter soon.