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Working With Your Doctor to Get The Best Care
Good communication with your doctor is very important and often takes time and effort.

Together with the family, the doctor should develop
a reasonable plan for meeting the needs of the patient. Over time, these needs will change. Regular doctor visits (about every six months or right away if a sudden change occurs) will help you and your family get the best care.

Remember, care provided by everyone working together will always be better than care given by the doctor, patient or loved one alone

Tips for Follow-Up Visits
Be Prepared
Make a list of the types of issues you want to discuss with your doctor:
  • Changes in symptoms
  • General health
  • Caregiver health
  • Help needed
  • Questions to ask
Ask Questions
If you don’t understand something, ask questions until you do. Don’t be afraid to speak up and to share your point of view.
Gather Information
Take notes during the visit, make time to write notes afterward, or even bring a tape recorder.


Medications

Medications, such as cholinesterase inhibitors, may temporarily improve memory or slow down memory loss. Vitamin E may slow the progression of the disease, and other drugs are available to help with mood and behavior changes. Talk to your doctor about what treatment is best for you or your loved one. Medications are being developed and you can contact the Alzheimer’s Association for the most recent information on available treatments.



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