Staying healthy is good for the mind as well as the body. Also, dementia often occurs alongside other chronic conditions. Managing dementia may require addressing other health issues as well.
Click on one of the following subtopics you would like to explore further. Scroll down to find additional conversation prompts.
Click on the subtopics below to find additional conversation prompts.
What questions do you have about dementia?
Conversation Prompts:
Diagnosis
Personal meaning of dementia
Stages of dementia: Early, Middle, Late
Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) needs
Deciding to see a specialist
Treatment options
Symptoms (e.g., sleep, mood, delirium, sexuality, communication, neuropsychiatric)
Good days and bad days
CONSIDER: FAST Scale; Getting help with personal care; Meeting with a PCP/ geriatrician/ neurologist; Managing symptoms with medication and other supportive interventions
Do you have concerns about your medications?
Conversation Prompts:
Side effects and effects on brain function
Trouble taking medications
Cost
Knowing purpose of each medication
Accessible, updated medication list
CONSIDER: Reviewing all medications with your PCP for side effects, purpose, effect on symptoms, longevity; Considering effects of medication on cognition or brain health; Asking for generic versions of medication; Discussing a simpler medication schedule
What can you do to stay healthy?
Conversation Prompts:
Exercise
Nutrition
Brain Health
Social Engagement
Complementary or traditional therapies
CONSIDER: Finding a partner for walks or exercise; Mediterranean diet; Staying intellectually and socially active in projects, communities, activities important to you
How do you navigate the healthcare system?
Conversation Prompts:
Ensuring each provider has a current medication list
Ensuring all providers know about your dementia
Identifying best communication strategies for each office
Identifying which clinician to see for which problem
Preparing for appointments
CONSIDER: Writing a list of questions or topics to bring to each appointment; Telling each clinician about your dementia; Bringing a support person to all appointments; Recording visits on a phone to listen to later; Asking about medications and brain health
What about going to the hospital for non-dementia medical issues?
Conversation Prompts:
Risks and benefits of going to the hospital with dementia
Risks and benefits of surgery with dementia
Supporting brain health while in the hospital
After the hospitalization
Other options to prevent hospitalization
CONSIDER: Requesting a geriatric or palliative care consultation as an inpatient; Keeping glasses, hearing aid, dentures, other assistive devices with you in the hospital; “Rescue medications” at home to prevent rehospitalization