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Education and Care
Ask Your Doctor
Good communication can enable you to get the most out of your visit to a physician or other healthcare professional. Being open and asking questions help toward understanding, and proper diagnosis and treatment.
When accompanying your loved one to a doctor, bring current medications, notes on symptoms and other issues—and a list of questions.
Ask:
What is the diagnosis?
What other tests should be taken?
Should we see a neurologist, geriatrician or other specialist?
How does the disease progress (symptoms, time span)?
What are all the available treatment options?
What is the effectiveness of each medication, in terms of memory, behavior and other symptoms?
What are the side effects, dosage, possible drug interactions, and pros and cons of each treatment?
What changes in condition should we report to you?
In addition to medication, what do you recommend in terms of diet, vitamins, physical exercise and other lifestyle changes?
What mental exercises can we do to stimulate the brain?
Are there any clinical drug trials that would be appropriate to participate in? What are the risks and benefits?
What advice can you provide regarding care?
Do you have information about community resources, such as support groups, educational workshops and services for my family?
Will you be speaking with my loved one's other doctors?
How often should we make an appointment to see you?
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For more information, connect with the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s licensed social workers. Click here or call 866.AFA.8484. Real People. Real Care.
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