Dementia: Just diagnosed and scared

There is a lot of support available. Our local Alzheimer's Association has EASE classes which my husband and I took four years ago. From that class they started a support group for patients and caregivers. We first meet together and then we split up. We have made some very fine friends. My husband doesn't like to go out but he does like to go to the support group where he feels comfortable being with others with similar problems. They have an opportunity to discuss how they are managing plus the leader is able to give helpful info. For caregivers we get to learn what help is available and to help each other on this journey. I am sure the diagnosis must be devastating at first. I pray you will be able to find help from your regional Alzheimer's Association.

How long did it take before you were diagnosed? I can’t get anyone to diagnose my son, who I believe has dementia. As soon as we can get seen is September

u of m says PCA posterior cortical atrophy but not sure as he specializes in Parkinson's can't see a cognitive group till October can I see a mayo dr pleas help I am scared and don't know where to get help

Mayo diagnosed my husband with pca in 2014. If you can get in there they will find an answer for you.

over a year to get diagnosed u of m geriatric clinic was referred by neck surgery neurologist

It took us four months to see a good neurologist who spent two hours talking with us. He then ordered MRI, blood tests & EEG to rule out other causes. Then he set us up with a neuropsychologist who did three hours of verbal cognitive testing. The results from everything then allowed the neurologist to make a diagnosis of Alzheimer's. Prior to that I dealt with several years of denial on my husband's part. Everyone is different....my mother had ALZ & lived with me for four years. My girlfriend has it and is verbal and humorous about it.

Cathy, Bless your heart; of course you're scared. SO many people are dealing with this. I would find a good neurologist, female therapist you can talk with, and share with all your girlfriends. You need a loving support system; don't isolate yourself. Live your life and have FUN.

I took my son to Emergency Department because he’s not eating and has lost 12 lbs. in 1 month, he’s so confused! Demanded that they admit him and do an mri. They refused and said this is not a medical issue, it’s a mental issue!!! I’m fed up with medical system, all they want to do is give pills out and not get to real issue of what’s wrong!!! Losing 12 lbs in a month is A Medical issue

HI, I'm sorry for your troubles, but I think your post is in the wrong place? it's not dementia related. I'd suggest making an appointment with a mental health professional asap, and seeing your primary care physician asap. Emergency rooms are terrible I think, I avoid them. another idea is to search the NAMI page for the crisis hotline, let your son talk to them. they may offer ideas.

My dr told me when people have dementia one of the things they stop doing is eating like they used to, my son can not speak for himself, he is mentally challenged, I speak for him!!! No one will help him, I called crisis hotline for him all they did was direct me to hospital. It’s not mental when your losing weight that fast and stay confused. Have to be directed to your own bathroom where he’s lived for 19 years. Have to show him where his bed is. Please someone tell me how I can get him help!!!