Hello. I am a 37 year old single mother. Signs of dementia but makes excuses to seek professional help. Always an excuse. I'm the only family member who lives in the bloomington area. I feel I have tried to help her as much as I can, but not sure what else I can do to improve her quality of life. She is so sad and I feel like I'm watching my mother slip away.
The problem is, the depressed person would have to cooperate with the treatment plan. The first step is to see a doctor or a mental health professional. I don't know what your mother's excuses are, but I do know that it is hard to take initiative when you are depressed. Perhaps you can take that initiative by calling her doctor's office and asking if they treat depression or if they would suggest someone else. If Mom doesn't have a PCP, try to find a Geriatric specialist with an opening for new Medicare patients. Then tell Mom the good news about what you found out, and ask her which day of week usually work best for appointments. Make an appointment and if possible take her.
Sometimes a medical problem can result in depression. For example a thyroid problem can cause lack of energy or mood swings. How long has it been since Mom has had a full checkup?
Dementia can certainly cause depression. While dementia is not curable, many of the symptoms can be treated. Depression is one of those. Keep a little journal of what makes you think she might have dementia. Get that list to the doctor before the appointment.
Please let us know how this works out for your mother. We learn from each other, and we care!