Expert: Michalene Peticca - 5/20/2009

Question
My mother has been diagnosed with dementia. She flattly refuses to agree with any doctor that see has it. Based on looking at the levels I would say based on my observation she is either a 5 or 6. But if she refuses to accept that she has dementia what can I do? She was recently admitted to a Psych ward for observation and to get her on medication which when she goes home I know she will not take. Any advise is greatly appreciated

Answer
Hello Janice,

It sounds like your mother is very "normal" when expressing disbelief and refusal of care.   Many times and individual with Dementia is expressing this because they are very scared of what will happen in the future.

I'm not a big fan of psychiatric wards, unless they are Dementia and geriatric specific, because they tend to just put someone on a medication and the home follow through isn't there.

However, this situation has provided you and/or your family with an opportunity to consider the next level of care for your mother.  Do you feel she would benefit from an Assisted living or nursing facility that specializes in Dementia care?   Does your family or you want to take on a more active role in her day to day life?

I think you are realizing that she cannot be in an unstructured environment any longer and for her own well-being (physically and mentally) would benefit from further structure.

Something to think about.

Best Regards,

Michalene Peticca, MA