Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, now what?
After the testing is complete, the doctor will review the results and share with the patient if they are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease reflects a doctor’s best judgment about the cause of a person’s symptoms. In order to learn more about your diagnosis, it is suggested to ask the doctor to explain:
- Why the diagnosis is Alzheimer’s
- Where you or your loved one may be in the course of the disease
- What to expect in the future
It’s important to find out if the doctor will manage care moving forward, and if not, who will become the primary doctor. The diagnosing doctor can then schedule the next appointment or provide a referral that will help.
Finding Support
We are here to help families and individuals live with Alzheimer’s disease.
- The Alzheimer’s Association has a 24/7 Helpline that provides information, referrals and care consultation. You can contact it at 1-800-272-3900
- Also, they offer a free online tool, Alzheimer’s Navigator, that provides a customized action plan and step-by-step guidance on topics including driving and home safety.
- Contact Caring Loving Sharing Caregivers to get more information on in home elderly care. We cater to your needs and here to help you feel like yourself again.
Planning Ahead
It is also important to begin making legal and financial plans. A timely diagnosis often allows the person with dementia to participate in this planning. One can also decide who will make medical and financial decisions on his or her behalf in later stages of the disease.
Also, it is important to decide whether you or your loved one will be going into a home or receiving a caregiver. If you’re interested in an in home caregiver, we at Caring Loving Sharing Caregivers are more than happy to help you with your needs. Contact us today!