Talking to your loved one
How to approach the conversation
First, try to figure out who would be best to talk to your loved one. It may be you, another family member, or someone else.
To make it easier to talk about what you're seeing, try to start off by letting your loved one know you're worried about them. Ask them if everything is okay. Make sure to reassure them that you want to help if they'll let you. Let them know what symptoms you're seeing. If you think it would help, show them the Symptom Tracker. Ask them if it would be okay if you both went to talk to the doctor about what you're seeing.
Some people may go undiagnosed for a long time because family members and sufferers might find the diagnosis hard to face. Unfortunately, avoiding the conversation could lead to a diagnosis in later stages of Alzheimer's when symptoms have progressed.
Being afraid of the diagnosis is normal. But keep in mind that receiving a diagnosis of Alzheimer's can be a relief. Getting a diagnosis can be empowering, and can help you make informed decisions to help your loved one.
Three important things to remember when talking to your loved one
- Be aware of the language you use. Remember that your loved one may be concerned about losing their independence. Reassure them that you want them to remain independent for as long as possible.
- Try to use an adult tone of voice when speaking to your loved one; avoid baby talk.
- It's important to help your loved one to not feel ashamed. The symptoms they're experiencing could be caused by the disease and aren't their fault.
Ask them to take the Clock Draw Test
Drawing a clock by hand is a screening tool that can help the doctor tell the difference between normal aging and Alzheimer's. The patient is asked to draw a clock with the hands at 8:20. This requires a person to use many different skills and abilities.
Watch the video below to see how it works. Then, ask your loved one if they would be willing to take the test. Bring the results to the next doctor visit and make sure to share them with your family.
The Clock Draw Test is scored in several different ways. One common way uses a four-point scale. It gives one point for each item:
- A closed circle
- Properly placed numbers
- Including all twelve numbers
- Properly placed hands
A low score may mean that further tests are required. If you or a loved one takes the Clock Draw Test, make sure to ask the doctor what the results mean.
This Web site contains information relating to various medical conditions and treatment. Such information is provided for educational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for the advice of a physician or other healthcare professional. You should not use this information for diagnosing a health problem or disease. In order for you to make intelligent healthcare decisions, you should always consult with a physician or other healthcare provider for your, or your loved one's, personal medical needs.
All quotes included in this Web site represent the individual experience of some doctors, some patients, and their caregivers. Individual responses to treatment may vary. Actual identities have been changed to protect individual privacy.
This site is intended for residents of the United States only. The products discussed herein may have different product labeling in different countries.
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