Expert: Paula Damgaard - 11/19/2003

Question
My mother is 82 and recently my father passed away after their 53 year marriage.  She had some forgetfulness prior to his death in Jan. 2003, however, it seems after the shock of his passing,her forgetfulness and what seems to be depression has increased.  Dad was expected to come home from hospital and passed away the day before (after a 3 month hospitalization). It was a great shock to all of us expecially Mom.  Mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease shortly thereafter by a Geriatrics Physician.  Who should really make this diagnosis?  A Neurologist, Psychiatrist, etc.  I don't see the signs and symptom of Alzheimers in my Mother that I have read in various articles about the disease and would like her to be re-evaluated/rediagnosed.  

Answer
Dear Bernadette,  I am sorry for the loss of your dad.  I am sure it was a great shock.  

As for your mom,  a geriatric physician would be able to diagnose her, but make sure that they do a thorough exam.  Did she have a full battery of neuropsychological tests done?  Did they do blood work to rule out other causes?  Did she have a scan of her head?  If not then I would suggest you call the Alzheimer's ASsoc in your area and ask them for a referral to someone who specializes in AD.  

If your mother is depressed that could be causing her to be "demented".  An antidepressant would answer that question.  If she isn't on one then I would ask her doctor why not?  If her dementia seems to be worse now after losing your father it may be that it was there all along, just that your father covered for her more than you knew.  

I hope you get a second opinion if you aren't satisfied.  If you don't ask the questions you won't get the best answers.  So keep asking!  Good luck and let me know how it turns out.  Paula