The Alzheimer's Association of Los Angeles: Caregiver and Community Education


When the Diagnosis is Alzheimer’s Disease or a Related Illness


	Diagnosis What does the diagnosis mean? Can you explain it in a way that I will understand? What can we expect in the near future and over time? Do you have any written material on this disease? If not, who does? Are there any organizations or community services that can help?

	Treatment Are there any treatments that don’t involve medications? Is there anything that we can change at home to make things easier or safer? What medications are available for memory loss? For behavior changes? What are the risks and benefits? What are the side effects? How long will the patient take this medicine? Is there anything else we should know? Should we consider participating in a drug trial? What are the risks and benefits?

	Other Concerns Will the patient continue to be able to work? To drive? What will our regular appointment schedule be? Under what circumstances should we contact your office? Can we schedule our next appointment?

	Don’t worry if you get home and realize you have forgotten to ask some of your questions. Write them down and call the doctor, or bring them to the next visit.