How can I tell if someone is the early stages of Alzheimer’s or having
mini strokes?
Can I call their Doctor and make them aware of this person’s action
and ask them to for their opinion?
Liz - 13 Jul 2009 16:21 GMT
>How can I tell if someone is the early stages of Alzheimer’s or having
>mini strokes?
Get an MRI scan, visit a Dementia Care Center or go to medical school.
>Can I call their Doctor and make them aware of this person’s action
>and ask them to for their opinion?
I wouldn't bet on it. The HIPAA rule deals with the privacy of
medical records, without that person's authorization, you're out of luck.
Cheers
Evelyn - 14 Jul 2009 14:27 GMT
How can I tell if someone is the early stages of Alzheimer’s or having
mini strokes?
Can I call their Doctor and make them aware of this person’s action
and ask them to for their opinion?
She needs a full evaluation which may consist of a PET scan to look for
specific shrinkages in certain areas of the brain, a psychological test to
see if her memory is impaired and how much, a blood test for thyroid
disease, testing for the amount of B-12 in her blood, and testing to rule
out things like NPH... normal pressure hydrocephalus.
Many things can cause forgetfulness, and some of them are entirely
reversible with proper treatment. A diagnosis of alzheimers is made by
ruling out the other possible causes.
Do you have power of attorney? Certain legal papers ought to be in place
at this time, because she may need someone to make decisions for her.
Good luck!

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Evelyn
"Even as a mother protects with her life her only child, So with a boundless
heart let one cherish all living beings." --Sutta Nipata 1.8
Dennis P. Harris - 18 Jul 2009 21:23 GMT
> Can I call their Doctor and make them aware of this persons action
> and ask them to for their opinion?
You can talk to their doctor, but because of HIPAA privacy rules,
the doctor may listen but not discuss the patient's condition.