I'm debating whether to use a Physician that specializes in Geriatrics for my Mother who has recently been diagnozed with Alzheimer's. Has this been beneficial for anyone out there?
NP: My rule of thumb when choosing any physician for my mother is to trust my gut instincts. She had an internist who was not really interested in dealing with the elderly. Mom now goes to a Geriatric specialist/internist and I love him. He is patient without being condescending and listens to both her and me. He does not use "extreme" measures and weighs her age/health against any invasive procedures.
Bottom line: if you are not happy with your physician, move on! There are so many good doctors out there...sometimes it takes a little time and patience to find them. I rely heavily on referrals.
HI NP~ PERSONALLY I WOULD USE A SPECIALIST, AS THEY ARE TRAINED, KNOWLEDGABLE, AND EQUIPTED TO KNOW THE INS AND OUTS OH THE DISEASE. YOUR PRIMARY CARE OR EVEN A GERIATRIC MY NOT BE AS FAMILIAR WITH ALL THE ASPECTS..IF YOU ARE UNSURE, YOU MAY WANT TO RUN THE BY YOUR LOCAL CHAPTER OF THE ALZHEIMERS ASSOCIATION. IF THERE IN NONE NEARBY, THEY HAVE A 24 HOUR HOTLINE AS WELL. GOOD LUCK!
Bottom line: if you are not happy with your physician, move on! There are so many good doctors out there...sometimes it takes a little time and patience to find them. I rely heavily on referrals.
Good luck,
Lilli