How Is Dementia Diagnosed? What Are the Next Steps?
Dementia refers to memory loss, and multiple conditions are considered types of dementia. Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common cause. Because dementia is not one disease, there’s not a single way to diagnose it.
If you or a loved one are diagnosed, there are different ways to proceed. It can be a lot to take in, but here at the Mission at Agua Fria memory care in Peoria, we’re here to help you understand. Read on below to find out more.
How is Dementia Diagnosed?
There are numerous tests doctors will perform to diagnose dementia. While doctors can diagnose dementia from these tests, it may be more challenging to find the exact cause, mainly because individuals can have multiple types of dementia.
While your primary doctor may administer these tests, they can refer you to specialists, including neurologists, psychiatrists, or psychologists.
Medical History Reviews
Your physician will review your medical history to see about other recent illnesses or conditions that could cause memory loss. For instance, some medications may include memory problems as a side effect. Your medical history will also show if there is a history of dementia in your family.
During this review, you should expect to discuss your symptoms. Your doctor will ask when the symptoms of memory loss began. You will also be asked about behavioral or personality changes, as well as any recent lifestyle changes.
Individuals experiencing memory loss may be unable to give the most complete answers. It’s usually recommended to bring along a family member or loved one, as your doctor will likely ask them the same questions.
To prepare for this review, you should prepare a list of symptoms you’re concerned about. You may be able to find a symptom checklist ahead of time and prepare a list of questions you have about dementia diagnosis and any next steps.
Physical Examinations
Physical examinations are one of the first steps toward diagnosing dementia, along with medical history reviews. Your primary care physician will likely perform both. Some dementia conditions can also express physical symptoms, so your doctor will test your coordination and balance.
Lab Tests
Blood tests alone won’t diagnose dementia, but they will indicate if other physical issues, like a vitamin B-12 deficiency, could affect memory. Blood tests can also check if there are issues with your thyroid gland. Both conditions can impact your cognition. Blood tests are more common, but your doctor may also order urine tests.
Cognitive and Neurological Tests
These tests will focus on memory, awareness of surroundings, language skills, and reasoning. Some cognitive exams will test your counting and basic math skills. Your doctor may ask questions and have you write down the answers. Other tests will focus on your balance, reflexes, eye movements, and senses.
While your general physician may perform some cognitive tests, you may also be referred to a specialist or see a doctor who specializes in dementia at a memory care clinic.
Psychiatric Examinations
Other specialists you may be referred to include psychologists and psychiatrists. Psychiatric examinations can help determine if your memory problems are being aggravated by depression or an increase in stress.
Brain Imaging
Brain imaging may also be used, including MRI, CT, or PET scans. A CT scan can show evidence of a stroke, while MRI scans can also show if there is any bleeding and which parts of your brain are being affected.
PET scans show brain activity. Doctors will also look at PET scans for the amyloid protein, which may indicate Alzheimer’s. A PET scan will also show if your brain’s blood flow has been affected.
What Are the Next Steps?
If you are diagnosed with dementia, you and your loved ones should try to learn as much as possible about your condition.
You should also keep regular appointments with your doctor and any specialists they refer you to. They will likely suggest local support groups and helpful resources for you and your loved ones.
Planning Ahead
If you don’t have one already, now would be the time to put together a long-term care plan. Or you can update an existing one. At this stage, you and your family should look into Peoria’s best memory care options.
Medical Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause of dementia. There is no cure, but there are treatments that can slow the progression of symptoms and generally improve daily cognitive function. Your doctor may suggest joining a clinical trial.
Safety First
You will be advised to make changes to your environment. Safety is the priority. In some cases, your doctor can arrange for a healthcare agency to evaluate your home’s safety. In addition to making your surroundings safer, you should consider a medical bracelet, smartwatch, or life alert button in an emergency, especially if you live alone.
Another safety concern may arise if you are still driving. Your doctor will recommend a driving evaluation. Be sure to mention if you get lost or confused more often.
Day-to-Day
Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance with daily tasks such as grocery shopping, preparing meals, and medication management. Your loved ones will be happy to help with these tasks or may suggest local or automated services. Be sure to set up reminders of important daily tasks, such as taking your medication.
Staying Healthy
Staying active can improve memory, cognitive function, stress, and mood. Even taking a walk with friends can make a huge difference. Likewise, eating a balanced, nutritious diet is also great, mainly to prevent vitamin deficiencies that can impact memory.
Some individuals consider working with an occupational therapist after being diagnosed with dementia. Other therapies, such as music and art, may be recommended to those with memory issues.
Your mental health is also essential to staying healthy. Many recommend seeing a psychologist for any significant life change. Keep up your socializing, including time with your family, loved ones, and friends. Joining a support group can help your mental health and allow you to make new friends and connections.
While considering your next steps, you and your loved ones should look into memory care programs. These programs include the latest groundbreaking therapies, round-the-clock medical care, socialization, and the highest levels of safety. You can find more information about memory care in Peoria by visiting the Mission at Agua Fria Senior Living website.