There are a series of tests that can be done. Some can be pretty basic, others can get very involved. The first step is a physical to rule out any other causes of any behavior that is causing you to think "dementia". Before you go write down EVERYTHING that may be of concern to you. Even things that you may think are unrelated.
After the Primary doctor the doctors that you might want to get referrals for (if you need referrals) are Neurologist or a Neuropsychologist. both can do more in depth testing.
Take them to their primary doctor since there are many medical and health issues that can produce dementia-like symptoms (a UTI is a main culprit, or dehydration, vitamin deficiency, stroke, tumor, high blood pressure, lack of sufficient oxygen levels, diabetes, etc).
Many dementias are primarily diagnosed by also eliminating all other possibilities.
The elder's PoA will need an official diagnosis by a doctor in order for their authority to be legally activated.
Basic... This is how I diagnosed my daddy and then took him to the doctor. Before I let my daddy in the room with the doctor I discussed my concerns with the doctor first. Is person confused about the time of day? Food? Tv remote? Family? saying mean things that they would never have said in the past? Confusing time lines? Example: my daddy was confusing day time and night time -thinking it was ten at night instead of ten in the morning. He was merging two weddings because my sister was married at the same church as he was and he believed I was at his wedding. My daddy could not understand the remote control and read the volume up and volume down buttons. These were the first signs - when I realized what he was saying I called the doctor and before I let the doctor see him I shared a few example with the doctor. He then gave him the ALZ test which my daddy failed. I then had to take major steps in care and needs. Blessings cuz this ain't easy!
Some can be pretty basic, others can get very involved.
The first step is a physical to rule out any other causes of any behavior that is causing you to think "dementia".
Before you go write down EVERYTHING that may be of concern to you. Even things that you may think are unrelated.
After the Primary doctor the doctors that you might want to get referrals for (if you need referrals) are
Neurologist or a Neuropsychologist. both can do more in depth testing.
Many dementias are primarily diagnosed by also eliminating all other possibilities.
The elder's PoA will need an official diagnosis by a doctor in order for their authority to be legally activated.
Is person confused about the time of day? Food? Tv remote? Family? saying mean things that they would never have said in the past? Confusing time lines?
Example: my daddy was confusing day time and night time -thinking it was ten at night instead of ten in the morning. He was merging two weddings because my sister was married at the same church as he was and he believed I was at his wedding. My daddy could not understand the remote control and read the volume up and volume down buttons.
These were the first signs - when I realized what he was saying I called the doctor and before I let the doctor see him I shared a few example with the doctor. He then gave him the ALZ test which my daddy failed. I then had to take major steps in care and needs. Blessings cuz this ain't easy!
If you are seeing a sudden change from seeming normal , a trip to the ER is needed, to rule out stroke or other things that need immediate attention .
More information would be helpful to answer your question .