Needing direction

annebacon64 · April 1

Hello,

My mom was diagnosed with Alzheimers with possible vascular dementia as well. We can't get into a neurologist until July. Is that typical? Are there things a neurologist can do that a GP can't or won't? Thanks for any insight.

H1235 · April 1

Welcome. So sorry you need to be here. My mom was diagnosed with vascular dementia and we were told there is no treatment. The long wait is unfortunately not that uncommon. Many with dementia become angry, depressed or anxious. The loss of independence can be very traumatic and difficult. Some pcps will prescribe medication for these others are less willing. Many here have recommended a generic physician, but they are hard to come by in more rural locations and again there can be a wait to get in. One of the most important things to do early on is to see an elder law attorney. She will need to appoint a DPOA, will, living will and if there is any chance that Medicaid may be necessary it would be good to ask some questions. It’s best to do this as soon as possible.

SusanB-dil · April 2

Hello and welcome to 'here', but sorry for the reason.

Oh, yes, long wait is common. unfortunately. We did find, though, that once the neurologist is on the team, we can usually access if needed, now, through the patient portal.

Agreeing with H1235 - a neurologist is usually more familiar with the meds that a PWD needs, and more willing to prescribe them when needed. MIL went on Seroquel when she got totally agitated, and that helped a lot. When it was time to increase a bit, we were able to do so without much issue through the same neurologist at the next check-up. He knows exactly what meds she is on, so was able to work out what would be best for her without being zombied. at the same, she had a PCP that just wasn't listening, and was not familiar with working with a PWD at all. We switched to one who will listen, and is way more familiar with working with the elderly in general. I feel that we have a good 'team', now.

JulietteBee · April 2

You can share with your GP your observations & concerns. He/she can order the MRI of the brain & the labs. By the time you finally see the neurologist, those would have been resulted and he/she can then give you a plan of action. All the best.

Yes, the wait is horrendous. To get my mom an appt for neuro-psych testing took 2.5 months.

annebacon64 · April 2

Thanks for this! Luckly, at this point she is "all in" on getting her ducks in a row. We have a DPOA, living will, and a specific health care POA. I think the line might be trying to discuss medicaid as it would not likely be necessary unless she needs to be placed out of home and for her this is not on the table. We have a A+N+T- blood test and her MRI is done and shows some vasular issues. I appreciate you all very much!!!

caregiving daughter · April 3

I believe my mom's internist referred her directly to a neuro psychologist for a diagnosis. Following a roughly two hour exam, with much testing on problem-solving, etc., a probable diagnosis was made for both Alz and Vascular. With this information, the internist was able to prescribe medication for memory loss. I am guessing this route may go faster than working with a neurologist. Please hang in there.

harshedbuzz · April 3

I know it feels like forever to wait, but the best memory center near me is scheduling about 12 months out.

Needing direction

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