Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
How To Treat One With Behavioral Disorders And Loss Of Memory?
My step dad is 84 yo and forgetting things. He is obnoxious, belligerent at times and uncooperative. he has been previously diagnosed with MS but it hasn t progressed quickly at all. He walks with a walker and is very negative. The other night he didn t know his name or where he was. Had to go to hospital to get him calmed down. Now back home I think he needs an geriatric psychiatrist who specializes in behavior disorders. Any suggestions in NYC?
Mon, 30 Jun 2014
Hi,
Based on history, I have come to a diagnosis of Dementia. It presents with memory loss and atleast one of the following - language impairment, decreased judgment, decreased planning or significant impairment in social functioning.
It could be most possibly Alzheimers disease.
Before you meet a psychiatrist, the caretaker needs to assess the extent and reasons to give a full history to make a comprehensive diagnosis.
The aim during treatment is to preserve function and autonomy and maintain a good quality of life. He will be put on cholinesterase group of drugs.
Other measures include: maintaining a standard routine, decreasing number of choices, to tell and not to ask, Understand that they cant rather than they wont.
I cannot help you with NYC but you can meet any psychiatrist.
Psychosocial support is very important.
Any further queries, happy to help again.
Dr. Prakash HM
Based on history, I have come to a diagnosis of Dementia. It presents with memory loss and atleast one of the following - language impairment, decreased judgment, decreased planning or significant impairment in social functioning.
It could be most possibly Alzheimers disease.
Before you meet a psychiatrist, the caretaker needs to assess the extent and reasons to give a full history to make a comprehensive diagnosis.
The aim during treatment is to preserve function and autonomy and maintain a good quality of life. He will be put on cholinesterase group of drugs.
Other measures include: maintaining a standard routine, decreasing number of choices, to tell and not to ask, Understand that they cant rather than they wont.
I cannot help you with NYC but you can meet any psychiatrist.
Psychosocial support is very important.
Any further queries, happy to help again.
Dr. Prakash HM
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Recent questions on Geriatrics
Loading Online Doctors....