My mother is 68 and is displaying odd traits. She is starting to repeat things over and over and is getting overly upset over thing that didn't upset her maybe 2 years ago. Among a long list of other things that have changed about her personality in the past 6 months. I need help in convincing her that she may need to speak to her doctor.
2006-12-25 12:05:19 · 9 answers · asked by dfmcdaniel082597 2 in Health ➔ Diseases & Conditions ➔ Other - Diseases
The diagnosis of Alzheimer Disease (AD) can be reached by a)neurocognitive testing and b) by a PET scan of the brain. The PET scan of the brain gives you more of a definitive answer as to what type of dementia your mother is suffering with. The best way to get your answer is to consult with a board certified neurologist. If it is AD that you are dealing with, you can usually start them on medication such as Aricept to slow down the progression of the disease with the advise of a physician. However these medications have side effects such as agitation, nausea and vomiting. It is best to consult with a board certified neurologist to help arrive at a definitive diagnosis. Goodluck.
2006-12-25 12:20:40 · answer #1 · answered by cvicurn2005 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Absolutely. You should take your mother to the doctor and be sure to record (write down) all the things you have noticed in the way of changes to her personality and her way of life. When my aunt began showing signs of this disease, she also became forgetful. She would turn on the oven and not remember. In fact, she set our kitchen afire. She would leave the house and take her daily walk, but we'd have to go and find her because she would forget where she was and who she was. I just heard a news report on ABC yesterday whereby doctors have found ways to determine this disease much earlier in people. In fact, they have testing available now to determine 'who' might get the disease. Consult your mom's physician and prepare yourself for extra doses of love and compassion because she is going to need it. It is very frustrating not only for the patient, but the family - especially if you have a family of your own, or she lives alone, and is determined that you can't and don't need to help her. It can become a struggle. If she has friends, please let them know what you suspect so they can be prepared to assist you in helping her. Please allow yourself to get involved with women's groups who deal with this all the time. You will need all the support you can get. And prayers as well. My best wishes for you and your mom.
2006-12-25 20:13:31 · answer #2 · answered by THE SINGER 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
A neuropsychologist is needed to make a diagnosis of Alzhiemers. The other person to see would be a neurologist. In the meantime, it might be a good idea for YOU to speak to her doctor - and make an appointment for the both of you, so you can go in with her and share your concerns.
2006-12-25 20:15:04 · answer #3 · answered by freshbliss 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I just read a really interesting article on different ways to test for Alzheimers. A simple one was a blind scent test- Healthy adults can recognize almost all smells (pineapple, lavender, etc.) but people who are getting Alzheimers couldn't recognize certain scents, especially strawberries and mint.
2006-12-26 05:25:48 · answer #4 · answered by Kelly 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
repeating things & getting upset may not be signs of a disease.
she may just be upset from whatever reason.
but if she starts to forget things to the degree that cause her problemes or you think she definitely started to have personality changes then she may need to see a NEUROLOGIST.
I think its better for OTHER relatives to ascess whether she REALLY has personality changes since you may NOT be able to detect some changes because you ge to se her every-day while other relativs (who see her few times a year) may be able to tell better.
Meanwhile try to be more compassionate to her as much as you can.
good luck for both of you.
2006-12-25 21:37:58 · answer #5 · answered by drinda_house 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There are no set tests to determine alzheimer's but a physican goes by habit changes, mood changes, forgetfulness, etc.
She is probably afraid to find out what is going on but I bet she knows there is something wrong.
Doesn't necessarily mean it's Alzheimers. Could be other things but the only way you can find out is to have her checked.
Good luck.
2006-12-25 20:14:52 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Take her to doctor and he will refer her to do some special psychochological tests. Best of luck because this is a long hard road for families and sufferers. I know because I have been therewith a family member.
2006-12-25 20:13:46 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
yes,there are various cognitive tests to support a diagnosis of altzheimers.there are physical tests as well,to discover or rule out causes of similar symptoms,like "small strokes.,which can cause brain damage,resulting in confusion and personality changes.i hope u can get her to see a dr somehow,its clear something is going on.
2006-12-25 20:19:45 · answer #8 · answered by Lyn K 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
CONVINCE HER SHE JUST NEEDS A YEARLY CHECK UP PHYSICAL,
AND SEE IF YOU CAN GET HER INTO HIS OFFICE.
2006-12-25 20:43:32 · answer #9 · answered by iroc 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋