Possible New Diagnosis

gigi77407

My husband of over 30 years recently went to his neurologist. He had a seizure back in 2020 due to a head injury. He's been OK up until a few months ago. I've really noticed that his short term memory has gotten really bad.

During the visit to the doctor I brought up this issue and they administered one of those tests to check his memory. He did OK on some things, but he had no clue on what the day was nor what month it was. I could semi explain this in my head because he's always sort of been like that but a few of the questions he should have known! More extensive testing is to follow.

He has a family history of dementia, so if he does get a positive diagnosis, it won't be a surprise. He's 65 this November and I'm at a loss of what my next step should be.

I keep hoping that it something else and it's all a big misunderstanding.

Ed1937

Gigi, welcome to the forum. I hope you don't really need it, but if you do, it's excellent. To do it properly, they will need to do a lot of testing to be sure there isn't another condition causing his problems. I hope they find something that is treatable.

M1

Welcome gigi. As much as we all know the feeling of wishing it weren't so, the reality is likely that it is in fact quite real. Better to be prepared than not. First steps are to ensure that your legal ducks are in a row-make sure now that legal and medical powers of attorney are in place, wills drawn up, and some thought given as to financial planning-do you have long term care insurance, or a way to finance memory care in the future? A certified elder law attorney can help with all of these things. It's not jumping the gun to do this kind of planning at any age, but you want to have these things in order while he can still give consent. It affects your own planning also, as he should not be named as your agent. I'm so sorry you are facing this, but you've come to a good place for support and advice.

Pat6177

Almost everything I know about dementia, I learned from this forum. Keep reading and posting. If you have questions about the testing process, come here and post and ask the community. Even if you are expecting a dementia diagnosis, to actually receive it is still upsetting. Welcome!

Denise1847

Hi GiGi, Make sure they do an MRI and a spinal tap. With his previous head injury, he could have normal pressure hydrocephalus. If so, that can be resolved through a procedure. I sure hope that is what it is. Please keep us informed.

gigi77407

We have all the legal stuff done including POA, Wills, healthcare wishes , etc.

We have money from his 401k too. It's sort of hoping for the best and preparing for the worst

SDianeL

Gigi, please keep us posted. Hope it's something treatable. My Mom used to say don't cross the bridge until you come to it. It took 6 months for my DH to get a diagnosis from the VA.