Preparing for your appointment can help you make the most of your time with the doctor. If you or someone you know is showing signs or symptoms of a neurodegenerative disease, including dementia, discussing these concerns with a doctor is an important first step. The following tips can help you prepare and ensure a productive visit.
Communication Tips
Building a strong relationship and ensuring clear communication with your doctor are essential for receiving the best care for you and the person with dementia. Use the tips below to help make your appointment as effective as possible:
- Be prepared: Confirm that your referring doctor has completed the necessary steps listed on the Make a Referral page several days before your appointment. Use these worksheets to track your medical history, recent health changes, concerns, and current medications. Bring two copies of your completed worksheets to review together, a pen, and paper for notes. Arrive early to complete any required forms.
- Speak up: Doctors often address key concerns early in the visit. Be sure to mention your most important health issues at the beginning of the appointment to ensure they are prioritized. Use your worksheets as a guide to organize your thoughts.
- Listen and take notes: Doctor visits can feel rushed, and it’s easy to forget what was discussed. Take notes during the appointment or ask for permission to record the conversation using your smartphone or recorder. If you don’t have time to take notes during the visit, take a few minutes afterward in the waiting room to write down what you remember.
- Ask questions: If anything is unclear, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. It’s important to understand your doctor’s instructions and recommendations to ensure they fit your personal, cultural, and financial situation. Before you leave, make sure you fully understand the information shared during the visit.
For additional tips, review:
Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider
To make the most of your appointment, prepare a list of questions in advance. Writing them down and leaving space for answers can help you stay organized. Below are some examples:
- Do you know what is wrong? How do you know?
- Where can I find reliable information, advice, and resources?
- Should I see a specialist?
- Do I need a follow-up visit?
- What tests do I need and why?
- What do the tests involve?
- Are there any changes I should watch for?
- When should I contact you?
It may also be helpful to share this website (memory.ucsf.edu) with your healthcare provider before your visit.
Taking these steps can help ensure you leave your appointment with all the information and resources you need to manage your health or support a loved one effectively.
