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Taking Back The Reins
From Alzheimer's
By
Beverly Moore |
 Q:
We just got a diagnosis of dementia from our doctor. What
now?
A: Getting a diagnosis of
Alzheimer’s dementia is at first, shocking; then fear and
uncertainty set in. What do I need to know? Can I take
control of this disease? How?
Here are some suggestions from one who has gone through this
disease with two family members and who has coached hundreds
others.
First be sure of the diagnosis. Was testing thorough or were
you told “She has a little dementia.” Diagnosis is 95%
accurate when done by a competent doctor with neurology
expertise.
Second, prepare yourself legally and financially. See an
elder law attorney. Protect your assets. Name your health
care proxy and power of attorney at the very least.
Third, get educated. Education is power. Contact the
Alzheimer’s Association for classes, telephone consultation
and opportunities to be an advocate of change in policies.
Call 888-272-3900 or www.alz.org/ MA.
Contact your town’s council on aging and local Aging Service
Access Point. See if you are eligible for services and learn
about the many resources in your area. In the south shore it
is South Shore Elder Services which may be reached at (781)
848-3910 and in the Neponset Valley it is Hessco Elder
Services at (781) 784-4944.
Fourth, find a support group for yourself and perhaps one
for your family member with Alzheimer’s. You will find
comfort and information on coping with the disease from
others like you. Again, the Alzheimer’s Association website
lists many.
Lastly, get into a research study. My husband and I are in
the HOPE study at BU Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. We
had our initial evaluation April 3rd with a full
neurological workup. I’ll write about that experience in the
column for May.
It is exciting to take part in a study to determine normal
cognitive aging changes versus that which may signal
possible dementia. Stay tuned. |
About The Author
Beverly Moore is president of Sweet Grapes, Inc. and
StilMee™, the leader in Alzheimer coaching™. You may reach
Beverly at Stil- Mee@comcast.net or get more information on
her company by visiting www.StilMee.com. Visit Beverly’s
blog @ www.stilmeecoach. blogspot.com.
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