Early Stage Caregiving Resources
Medical Doctors To Approach
General Practitioner
- Ask about MMSE**
This exam is important because it is commonly used in medicine and allied health to screen for dementia
Geriatric Internist
- Ask about CT, MRI, PET scans
These imaging tests are important because they help in the diagnosis and treatment of dementia by allowing doctors to see changes in brain structure or function that explain the dementia
Geriatric Psychiatrist
- Ask about potential medicinal interventions
In the early stages of disease, cognitive and behavioral changes will be commonplace. Coping with these new changes may require additional intervention to ease symptoms.
Neurologist
- Based on your experiences, ask a neurologist to collaborate with other doctors you have seen to identify unique symptoms as a result of comorbidities (other illnesses).
* When searching for doctors, look for those who have extensive experience with Alzheimer's or a related dementia. They will be the most beneficial in helping you and your loved one through the various stages of Alzheimer's or a related dementia.
** Mini Mental State Examination
Therapists To Approach
Cognitive Therapist
- Ask about understanding negative or false thought patterns in your loved one with Alzheimer's
Important to maintain a healthy and happy person
Physical Therapist
- Ask about how to maintain physical abilities
Mobility, balance, and coordination deteriorate with this disease and helping to keep these functions strong in the early stages will assist the person with the disease to live a comfortable, high quality of life they are used to
Speech Therapist
- Ask about how to maintain physical abilities
The ability to speak may be lost at some point during the course of the disease. Ensuring the maintenance of this ability allows for active communication between yourself and the person with dementia, ensuring effective care for as long as possible
Occupational Therapist
- Ask about how to maintain ability to execute daily activities
Bathing, feeding, and dressing oneself are important in holding onto one's dignity
* When searching for therapists, look for those who have extensive previous experience with Alzheimer's or a related dementia.
Social Services/ Medical Professionals To Seek Out
Senior Service Coordinator &
Comprehensive Care Coordinator
- These coordinators are absolutely invaluable in assisting the Alzheimer's community obtain the resources they need for the quality of life they deserve
- Private home-health agencies that help provide services for people with Alzheimer's i.e.
Registered Nurses & Licensed Practical Nurses
- These medical professionals assist with family caregivers and other care taking responsibilities
Should have extensive previous experience with Alzheimer's or a related dementia, to ensure quality of care
Home Health Aides & Certified Nursing Assistants
- These medical professionals assist with family caregivers and other care taking responsibilities
Should have extensive previous experience with Alzheimer's or a related dementia, to ensure quality of care
* Department of Aging/Senior Services Department (In your local area) can help you in finding social workers