The diagnosis is in, and it’sdementia.
Maybe you knew this was coming.
Or perhaps it completely surprised you.
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Either way, it may still be hard to hear this news.
Strategies for Coping with a Dementia Diagnosis
How Did You Arrive at This Diagnosis?
What Else Could It Be?
What pop in of Dementia Is It?
Some people don’t ask this question because they don’t want to know.
And some clinicians use the word “dementia” because the word “Alzheimer’s” scares people more.
What Stage Is the Dementia?
Some types of dementia have fairly predictable stages, such as Alzheimer’s.
Others, such asvascular dementia, can often remain fairly stable for a time and then suddenly progress.
How Quickly Does This pop in of Dementia Progress?
What Else Should I Expect?
Ask what other symptoms might develop so that you know what to watch for as things progress.
What Medications Might Be Helpful?
Are There Any Clinical Trials You Would Recommend?
Some clinical trials might be available for your particular situation.
you’re able to also refer to the clinical trial match program on the Alzheimer’s Association website.
There are pros and cons to participating in clinical trials.
What Non-Drug Approaches Might Be Helpful?
Is Living at Home Safe?
Can I Still Work?
What Resources Are Available to Help?
Many communities have local Alzheimer’s Association groups and other support groups and resources.
Your healthcare provider may be able to suggest where to begin as you adjust and cope with this disease.
Galvin JE, Sadowsky CH; NINCDS-ADRDA.Practical guidelines for the recognition and diagnosis of dementia.J Am Board Fam Med.
2012 May-Jun;25(3):367-82. doi: 10.3122/jabfm.2012.03.100181.
Alzheimer’s Association.Just Diagnosed.
