Dad doesn’t like any new doctors

Gobellago

Have any of you also experienced your ALZ/Dem parent disliking anyone new caring for them? My dad has moderate/severe ALZ/Dem and is saying “I don’t like them” (and unable to give a reason why) for every new doctor, nurse and/or CNA he meets. I know it is common for folks with ALZ/Dem to feel uncomfortable with anything new. Is this part of that? Is there a way I can help him feel more comfortable? As context, he is in a facility.

Avonlea

Hi Gobellago,

My dad, who was diagnosed last October has been that way with doctors since his diagnosis. He still doesn't believe the diagnosis because he didn't like the doctor who gave it. He voluntarily moved into AL in December, and we tried to switch him to the PCP that works there, and he didn't like him either. He gave reasons, but they were a bit odd, like that the doctor just continuously took notes and never stopped between questions. He's always citing that he grew up around the medical community, as his mom was a nurse and then nursing instructor, and my mom was a nurse for years, so he seems to think he knows better than the doctors lately. Have you or another caregiver been going to appointments with your dad? My sister and I have found that if we are present and can try to reassure him that his reason for the appointment were addressed that he will drop it and be more agreeable to future appointments. That's not to say he necessarily likes the provider any better, but it's not as bad. I'm mostly here in solidarity. It's so hard and I'm sorry you're going through it too.

H1235

My mom recently moved to AL. We switched her to the doctor there. Because of changes in the office she has only seen her pcp for about a year. I’ve not been real impressed with her( just did whatever mom wanted). Mom was upset with getting a new doctor. Said she wouldn’t know her background. I told mom they gave her all her records (I am also very involved, but didn’t tell her that because it would only make her mad). I think part of it was just that she didn’t want to be in AL. She interacts well with the new doctor, but complains about not wanting a new doctor. Unfortunately she complains about a lot of things. I’ve just accepted she is not happy about it and there is nothing to be done about it. Sorry, I wish I had something more helpful for you.