Hi everyone . Mom has a regular doctor of course but no special training in dementia that I am aware of . My question is should I get mom a new doctor ,one that specializes in dementia now that we are facing some things we don't really know how to deal with and she is progressing but we don't really know where we stand . If so, should it be a neurologist? Or just a regular doctor that specializes in dementia? Do they do that? I have no idea about any of it I would just like for her to have a doctor that knows what's going on , suggestions? And thanks!
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That way you have her Primary Doctor in the loop, and will see a specialist too. The specialist will do the various testing and know the proper medications. GP doctors don't know that much about it. Mom will be easier to deal with and feel safer with her regular doctor she knows is "helping her out." She will (hopefully) listen and cooperate with the specialist her Primary Doctor sends her to.
If you don't like the new specialist, ask her Primary to try another one. I ended up getting a terrible Neurologist, who was rude and didn't return calls. We got a fabulous Endocrinologist who has worked miracles! Trust your gut.
Make sure you like the specialist, since you end up going to the specialist more than the Primary doctor.
Hey, same thing with the GPS in my car! That thing has tried to talk me into taking the craziest routes. I catch myself calling it some awful names at times! 😝 hahaha
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A GP knows a little about everything and alot about nothing.
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If your M is happy and comfortable with her doctor, I’d stay stick with that. You can find lots of information on the site, so explore it. Click on ‘Care Topics at the top right of the screen, then on D for dementia – and the right letter for all the other types of dementia. You can also use the magnifying glass symbol to find many more thread from people who have been in your situation.
If you find out as much as you can now, then decide to go to ‘higher’ medicos, you will have more sensible questions to ask, so it’s not a waste of time.
Yes, I would ask her primary care doctor for recommendations on who he/she feels is most appropriate for your mother to see.
Sometimes, a primary doctor will prescribe meds, but often they prefer that their patients see a neurologist or a psychiatrist to treat them.
Mt mom had Parkinson’s disease and dementia. She saw her primary care doctor and a neurologist.
Are you dissatisfied with her current doctor? What type of issues are you facing?
There are geriatric doctors that specialize in caring for the elderly.
Is your mom on any medication? Do you think her meds need adjusting?
Wishing you all the best as you continue on your caregiving journey. It’s hard. I hope that you have help so you can take necessary breaks.
Take care.