Senior Care News

8 Steps to Consider If You Are a Family Caregiver

 Most people do not consciously choose to become a primary caregiver for a loved one with dementia. As devoted and loving family members or friends, we usually assume this new role without much consideration, preparation, or planning. By creating a strategic plan of care from the outset, however, we can significantly enhance our ability to provide the best care for our loved one and for ourselves.

Step 1. Arrange for a comprehensive medical assessment and diagnosis. Many symptoms associated with dementia, such as confusion, forgetfulness, and social withdrawal, can sometimes be caused by other medical issues. As a first step, it is crucial to get a comprehensive medical assessment, preferably coordinated and interpreted by a physician who specializes in geriatrics, neurology, or geriatric psychiatry. While there is no definitive test for Alzheimer’s or other dementias, there is a high degree of accuracy in diagnosis by combining and comparing results from a physical exam, blood and laboratory tests, brain imaging, and neuropsychological testing.

Be skeptical of any single test in the doctor’s office or online that claims to diagnose dementia—nothing replaces a full medical evaluation.   From the CSA Journal-Written by Janice Blanchard

www.blessingsforseniors.com

Jack Coito

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