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Alzheimer's: Getting the most from medical appointments

Regular medical care is an important part of Alzheimer's treatment. Make the most out of the time you have with your loved one's doctor.

By Mayo Clinic staff

People with Alzheimer's disease need regular medical care to address a wide range of health and behavioral issues, some related to Alzheimer's and some not. Either way, if a member of your family has Alzheimer's, you're sure to have lots of questions — and limited time with the doctor.

To have the most productive medical appointments possible, try these tips.

  • Schedule wisely. Choose appointment times that occur during your loved one's best time of day. Bring snacks and water, and an activity he or she enjoys.
  • Be prepared. Read up on the Alzheimer's issues most important to you so that you're ready to discuss them in the doctor's office — such as advance directives or nursing home placement.
  • Make a list. If you're concerned that you may not remember your questions, jot them down ahead of time. Put your top three concerns at the top of the list so that you're sure to cover what's most important to you.
  • Identify all medications. Your doctor needs to know about everything your loved one takes, even over-the-counter medications and supplements. You can either make a list of everything, or bring it all in a bag.
  • Bring a friend. It can help to have a friend or another family member along when you take your loved one to a doctor's appointment.
  • Be exact. Be ready to answer questions about your loved one's symptoms and behavior. As the disease progresses, your insight may be the critical factor in determining what's best for your loved one.
  • Consider the future. Ask the doctor to discuss what to expect in the next year or two. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare.
  • Ask for referrals or recommendations. If you need help, ask. The doctor can refer you to various community resources, such as meal services, respite care and support groups.
  • Take notes. Take a notepad so you can jot down the main points of the doctor's explanation. Some people use a tape recorder, so they can listen to the conversation again later.
  • Deal promptly with conflict. If something annoys you about a particular appointment or if a misunderstanding arises, discuss it with the doctor right away. Work as a team to resolve the problem, rather than rushing to switch doctors. A change could be confusing to your loved one and detrimental to his or her care in the long run.

Medical Appointment Checklist (PDF file requiring Adobe Reader)

References
  1. Caregiver guide: Tips for caregivers of people with Alzheimer's. National Institute on Aging. http://www.nia.nih.gov/Alzheimers/Publications/caregiverguide.htm. Accessed Aug. 8, 2008.
  2. Partnering with your doctor: A guide for persons with memory problems and their care partners. Alzheimer's Association. http://www.alz.org/national/documents/brochure_partneringwithyourdoctor.pdf. Accessed Aug. 8, 2008.
  3. Talking with your doctor: A guide for older people. National Institute on Aging. http://www.nia.nih.gov/NR/rdonlyres/90DF996C-DF5F-4245-B7CA-B2E1B993D8C7/0/TWYD_Final.pdf. Accessed Aug. 8, 2008.

AZ00029

Oct. 10, 2008

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