|
TIPS ON MEDICAL
VISITS
·
Keep a record of the individual's physical
complaints between visits. Examples: shortness of
breath or headaches.
·
Bring all medications, including prescriptions and
over-the-counter drugs, to every doctor's visit.
·
A family member or other individual should be
present during the individual's entire examination.
·
Insist on providing history and symptoms directly to
the practitioner, since he may not realize the
individual has impaired memory and communication
skills.
·
Insist on an explanation of medical conditions,
medications and treatments to you as well as the
individual with dementia.
·
Ask whether any new medications may increase
confusion or result in other side effects.
·
Inquire about communication among healthcare
professionals treating the individual.
·
Speak up if specific instructions are not realistic.
Example: Expecting that an individual who has lost
verbal skills will ask for chest pain pills
(nitroglycerin).
|
