@A myALZteam Member
I agree that there is no cure for ALZ. But surely doctors have been helpful in many cases to reduce the patient’s symptoms and, thereby, to improve the quality of life for both the patient and the caregiver. My wife does not suffer from extreme anxiety, but I believe that there have been several cases reported in this forum where meds prescribed by doctors have helped reduce that condition. Do we really need so many specialites in medecine? Probably not.

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A myALZte...

In the VA's system, first a social worker did a short test, then referred to Neuropsychology who did more in depth testing, first without me in room, then I joined their session. Final referral was to VA Neurology who now sees him every 6 months plus his Primary Care twice a year for his emphysema and A-Fib. As a retired nurse, I can tell you you, in the beginning a full evaluation is helpful in developing a plan of care and then it narrows down number of doc visits. So, hang in there! Seroquel is for agitation, anxiety and anger specific to dementia and my husband just had his dose increased and it seems to be working well. The increase only required me to call the Neurologist at the VA, so just a phone call. There are, of course, no miracle drugs or cures, so interventions and opinions vary widely. It can be confusing and frustrating, esp in the beginning! Hang in there! Wishing you blessings and peace!

I agree that it is important to get a diagnosis and any meds that may help keep the symptoms at bay for awhile, once the disease progresses, I do not see the need to go to "specialists." We go every six months to the neurologist and once a year to the primary. Unless an issue arises, I do not see the need for more visits. I realize this may change as he declines, but this works for now.

@A myALZteam Member
I understand that all the appointments can be overwhelming, but progress is being made, is it not? A diagnosis from the neurologist, a prescription that may help, a referral to another specialist. Small steps, but forward movement.

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A myALZte...

At this point I wonder why they have to see anyone. Dementia is dementia and there is no cure. The neuropychologist does a cognitive test that compares the patient with a peer group and depending on their score it can be determined approximate stage of dementia. I believe our neurologist diagnosed my husband with Alzheimer's after an MRI and then sent him to the neuropsychologist that confirmed the diagnosis. Hang on to your hat you can get blown away with all this stuff!