Hi Everyone,
My mother-in-law (73) has been in cognitive decline the last 10 years or so - not driving anymore, losing things, hiding things, thinking people are stealing from her, not recalling shopping or eating just 5 minutes prior, and now more recently, not bathing and wearing the same dirty clothes for days or weeks.
I was just able to review the doctor's notes from a Geriatric visit she had in December, and his conclusion was that she has no cognitive decline per the SLUMS memory test he gave her, scoring 27/30. I know he doesn't see what we've been seeing for years, but how can a conclusion be made from just one test? Have any of you experienced this too? We're trying to get some in-home care for her but definitely want her doctor's support.
My mom's memory was pretty good until the day she died. (She had vascular dementia). It was her reasoning abilities and problem solving that was affected by her broken brain.
Get a neuropsych. It will tell you a more detailed story
Now, I am watching my brother from afar struggling with Alzheimer’s disease. It’s helpful to see these things in a broader scope.
Thanks Barb, for explaining all of this in detail so others will understand better and also know what to look out for in the future.
Your feedback will help people push forward in getting the proper diagnosis.
So often, people feel lost in these situations. The person who is going through cognitive decline is depending on their family to find the best solution for them. You did that for your mom. She was blessed to have you in her corner.
You have shown everyone how valuable advocacy is for their loved ones.
Keep careful notes on what you are seeing; they should go with her to the exam.