Key Takeaways
- Ask specific questions about diagnosis type, stage, and treatment options during neurologist visits
- Focus on safety concerns like driving, home modifications, and daily living adjustments
- The right questions let you plan for care team coordination and community support
- Your neurologist can often even recommend effective communication strategies for behavioral changes and confusion
What to Ask a Neurologist
Walking into a neurologist’s office with your loved one can feel daunting. You might sense that something isn’t right, but aren’t sure how to describe it—or what to ask once you’re there. Preparing thoughtful questions ahead of time can help you feel more confident and help your loved one receive the support they need.
Asking the right questions about your loved one’s behavior helps you understand what’s happening. It also lets you plan ahead for the future and find a memory care community for your loved one. So, what are some of the best questions to ask a neurologist about dementia?
The Diagnosis and What It Means for Your Family
First, focus on the diagnosis itself. What’s causing your loved one’s symptoms, and what can you do about it? These are the biggest questions, so start with these.
- Is This Normal Aging, Mild Cognitive Impairment, or Dementia?
Memory changes happen as we age, but significant forgetfulness isn’t always normal. Ask your neurologist to explain the difference between typical aging and more serious cognitive changes. Then, ask them to highlight specific symptoms and why they’re a concern.
- What Type of Dementia Are We Dealing With?
Different types of dementia progress differently and affect people in unique ways. Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia each have distinct patterns. When you know the specific type, you can learn what to expect in the future.
- What Stage Are We In and What Can We Expect?
Dementia progresses through different stages, from mild to moderate to severe. Ask about the current stage and what changes you might see in the coming months or years. This information helps families plan for care needs and make decisions about living arrangements.
Treatment Options and Medications Available
Once you understand the underlying condition, it’s time to plan ahead for treatment.
- Are There FDA-Approved Medications That Can Help?
Some medications may ease memory loss or behavioral changes. Ask your neurologist which options are most suitable and what side effects to monitor. Your neurologist can explain how these treatments work and what improvements you might realistically expect.
- What About Clinical Trials and New Treatments?
Research continues to advance in dementia treatment, and clinical trials offer access to newer therapies. Ask if your loved one qualifies for any current trials or experimental treatments. Your neurologist can help you weigh the benefits and risks of participating in research programs.
- Which Medications Should We Avoid?
Certain prescriptions or over-the-counter drugs can worsen confusion. Ask for a list of medications to avoid and share it with all care providers to make sure your loved one’s treatment remains safe and coordinated.
- How Will We Know if Treatments Are Working?
Understanding what success looks like helps set realistic expectations. Ask how long it takes to see improvements and what signs indicate treatments are helping. Sometimes, slowing decline rather than improving function is the goal.
Safety Concerns and Daily Living Adjustments
Dementia affects both independence and safety. Proactive planning can prevent accidents and reduce stress—for everyone involved.
- When Should We Stop Driving and How Do We Handle That Conversation?
Driving independence is often difficult to give up. Ask your neurologist for warning signs that suggest it’s time to stop driving. Framing this decision as a medical recommendation can make the transition smoother.
- Is It Safe for Your Loved One to Be Alone at Home?
As dementia symptoms progress, home safety becomes a central concern. Ask about signs that indicate it’s time for extra supervision or in‑home support. Wandering, leaving appliances on, or forgetting daily routines are key issues to discuss.
- What Home Safety Changes Do We Need to Make?
Simple changes—like removing tripping hazards, labeling rooms, or improving lighting—can help prevent confusion. Ask if an occupational therapist can assess the home and recommend improvements to make daily life safer and easier.
Planning for Care and Support Services
You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Building a care network early can help your loved one stay supported and comfortable.
- Which Healthcare Professionals Should Join Our Care Team?
Dementia care often requires a team approach beyond just the neurologist. Ask about working with geriatricians, social workers, occupational therapists, and other specialists. Building this team early helps coordinate care and provides multiple sources of support for your family.
- What Community Resources and Support Groups Are Available?
Support groups, adult day programs, and respite services can ease caregiver stress and help families feel connected. Ask about local or online programs in your area, because these are invaluable resources. They often become lifelines for families navigating this journey.
- When Should We Consider Memory Care or Assisted Living Options?
Recognizing when home care is no longer safe can be difficult. Ask your neurologist what behaviors or risks might indicate it’s time to explore memory care. These communities provide secure environments, structured routines, and social engagement designed for people with dementia. They can help reduce dementia’s effect on your loved one’s life and preserve their dignity and quality of life.
Communication Strategies and Behavioral Changes
Even as memory fades, connection is still possible. Learning new ways to communicate and respond can make daily life more peaceful for everyone.
- How Should We Communicate When Memory Gets Worse?
Simple, calm language and eye contact can make a big difference. Ask your neurologist or a speech therapist for specific communication strategies tailored to your loved one’s condition. They may recommend speech therapy or specific strategies for your loved one’s situation.
- What Should We Do When Confusion or Agitation Happens?
Behavioral changes are common with dementia and can be distressing for everyone involved. Ask about triggers that commonly cause agitation and techniques for responding calmly. Understanding that these behaviors stem from the condition, not personal choices, helps families respond with compassion.
- How Can We Handle Wandering and Sleep Problems?
Sleep disruption and wandering create safety concerns and family stress. Ask about strategies for maintaining regular sleep schedules and preventing unsafe wandering. Your neurologist might suggest environmental modifications or medications to help with these challenging behaviors.
Moving Forward with Confidence and Hope
When home care becomes challenging, memory care can make all the difference. Communities like ours at Norbella Prior Lake are built to support your family and help your loved one thrive—even if cognitive decline is involved.
In our community, we provide memory care built around safety, familiarity, and dignity. Our team understands that every journey is unique, and we work closely with families to create personalized care that supports each resident’s well-being. Schedule a tour today to see how we can help your loved one feel secure, supported, and seen.