Caring for Patients with Dementia

Guest: Ericka E. Tung, M.D. Host: Darryl S. Chutka, M.D. (@ChutkaMD)  The topic of Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias was discussed along with the importance of providing care of the patient’s care-givers by Dr. Ericka Tung, a geriatrician in the Division of Community Internal Medicine at the Mayo Clinic. Specific topics discussed include: Common symptoms seen in early dementia. Mild cognitive impairment and its progression to dementia. Importance of stability of lifestyle in the life of patients with dementia. Discussing the diagnosis of dementia with the patient and family. Using a mental status exam in the evaluation of patients with suspected dementia. Establishing a diagnosis in patients with early dementia. The role of formal psychological testing in patients with suspected dementia. The needs of care-givers of dementia patients. Importance of respite care for the care-givers of dementia patients. Evaluating driving skills in patients with early dementia. Advanced care planning for dementia patients. Connect with the Mayo Clinic’s School of Continuous Professional Development online at https://ce.mayo.edu/ or on Twitter @MayoMedEd.