How to Talk With The Doctor About Alzheimer's disease

California Council of Alzheimer's Association / Dr. Robert Griffith: In May 2001, the US Alzheimer's Association commissioned a survey about doctor-caregiver communications. Only one third of caregivers felt they received all the information they wanted from their family physician - but 88% of physicians surveyed believed they were providing the proper recommendations and information to their patients. Clearly something is not right with doctor - caregiver communications.

Here are some tips for caregivers and family members in their effort to "educate" their physicians.

> Before your first visit:

Doctors only have a limited amount of time to spend with each patient. You can help by being prepared. Make lists!

* Make a list of all medications, both over-the-counter (vitamins; aspirin)and prescription, with their dosing instructions.

* Make a list of previous and present medical problems, and any relevant problems you are having with your family member.

* Make a list of symptoms, when they began, and how often the occur. Be specific : Example: "Last Tuesday, my husband got lost on the way home from the store."

* Be ready to say how well the patient can perform common daily activities, such as balancing a checkbook or taking medications.

> At your first (or maybe second) visit, your doctor should:

* Explain the diagnosis, let you know what to expect in the future, and tell you where to get more information and supoort.

* Tell you about possible treatments, and help you select what's best.

* Schedule your next visit and let you know how often you should come back.

> If you're not getting the information you expect, ask these specific questions:

* What does the diagnosis mean?

* Can you explain it in a way that I will understand?

* What can we expect in the near future and over time?

* Do you have any written material on this disease? If not, do you know where I can get some more information?

* Are there any organizations or community services that can help?

* Are there any treatments that do not involve medications?

* Is there anything that we can change at home to make things easier or safer?

* What medications are available for memory loss or for behavior changes?

* What are the risks and benefits of the medication?

* What are the side effects?

* How long will my family member take this medication?

* Are there drug trials we should consider participating in?

* What are the risks and benefits of these?

* Under what circumstances should we call your office?

* Is there anything else we should know?

Don't worry if you get home and realize you've forgotten to ask some of your questions. Make another list and call the doctor, or take them on your next visit.

> For subsequent visits, make a list of:

* Changes in symptoms (memory, mood, behavior). When they started, frequency, time of day...

* How the prescribed treatments are working. What's improved, what's worsened.

* Side effects of mediations and the problems they cause.

* The patients general health

* The caregivers general health.

* What additional help you need.

If you don't understand something, ask more questions. Share your point of view with the doctor. Gather information - take notes during the visit or afterwards. You may even ask the physician if you can bring a tape recorder to the next visit so you have the opportunity to review instructions and information at home.

There are many challenges in dealing with Alzheimer's disease. Working with yor doctor can help you get the best care possible.

For more information regarding the programs and services offered by Elderwood Senior Care, please contact us at (716) 633-3900.