Dementia Answers: What To Ask Healthcare Providers
Welcome and thank you for joining me.
Today, we're going to talk about what to ask healthcare providers if you are worried that a person may have Dementia.
Noticing memory loss, confusion, or changes in behavior can be frightening. Asking the right questions can help you get clear answers and the right support early.
Start with the basics. Ask the provider, "Could these changes be signs of Dementia or could something else be causing them?"
Many conditions, such as infections, depression, vitamin problems, sleep issues, or medication side effects, can look like Dementia, but may be treatable.
Ask about testing.
You can ask what tests providers will perform to understand what's happening. Healthcare providers may suggest memory tests, blood work, brain scans, or hearing and vision checks. These tests help rule out other causes and guide next steps.
Ask about diagnosis and stages.
If the diagnosis is Dementia, ask what type of Dementia it is and what stage the person is in. Different types of Dementia can affect people in different ways. Knowing the stage helps with planning, care, and support.
Ask about treatment and support.
You might ask, are there treatments or medications that can help with symptoms? Also, ask about non-medical support, such as therapy, community programs, education classes, or caregiver resources.
Ask about what to expect.
It's important to ask what changes we might see over time, and how we can prepare. The answers help families plan for safety, legal matters, and daily care needs.
Don't forget caregiver questions. Ask what support is available for family and caregivers.
Caring for someone with Dementia is a journey, and you do not have to walk it alone. Speaking up, asking questions, and staying informed can make a real difference.
On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you again for joining me today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care of yourself.
Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.
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