@lynnrackliff When I looked at your profile I saw that you joined Mayo Clinic Connect two months ago. It looks like this is the first time you have posted so I offer you welcome. I hope you will find that we are supportive and can offer suggestions for your questions.

I worked at Memory Diagnostic Center for several years. This was a multidisciplinary team of neurologist, psychologist, social worker. advanced practice nurse specializing in geriatrics, and a volunteer from the local Alzheimer's Association.

I'd like share that a diagnosis of a cognitive disorder due to dementia is a process. There are other treatable conditions that can look like Alzheimer's disease and other dementias but are in fact due to medications, anxiety or depression.

From what you have written I suggest that you write your observations of your husband with approximate dates when you first noticed these changes. This will be helpful information for the neurologist as they will want to know how long ago your husband first started to experience what you've observed.

I suggest, too, that you ask the neurologist for a referral for cognitive testing. The cognitive testing performed by allied health professionals or a psychologist go beyond a quick screening test called the Mini-Mental Exam that physicians often perform in the office. The Mini Mental is a screening test that takes 10 minutes or less.

If your husband's neurologist does not order additional testing such as blood tests and brain imaging then you should ask about this. This is part of the entire evaluation to rule in or rule out explanations for your husband's changes.

When you ask about cognitive testing, you could also ask about a referral to a comprehensive memory diagnostic center. Depending on where you are located I have included links to some memory diagnostic centers that I am familiar with.

University of Wisconsin Memory Clinic Network:

-- https://wai.wisc.edu/memory-clinic-network-list/

Mayo Clinic--Diagnosis and Treatment of Dementia:

-- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dementia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352019

Johns Hopkins University - The Memory Disorders Center

-- https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/neurology-neurosurgery/specialty-areas/memory-disorders

I may be able to find other options for you. May I ask where you are located?