Abstract
This patient displayed a pattern of neuropsychological test results that indicated early Alzheimer's dementia. Using neuropsychological testing to make the diagnosis provided an answer for the patient, family, and psychiatrist, who all recognized a problem, and allowed for future planning. Recommendations for the patient included: psychoeducation and support for the patient and family; assistance with planning for the future, including discussions of advance directives and financial management; re-evaluation of the patient's ability to drive a motor vehicle; a trial of a cholinesterase inhibitor such as donepezil or rivastigmine; ongoing health maintenance, including periodic screening for depression and other psychiatric symptoms; repeat neuropsychological assessment in 6 months to 1 year to assess rate of decline and confirm the diagnosis.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 58-61 |
| Number of pages | 4 |
| Journal | Geriatrics |
| Volume | 56 |
| Issue number | 4 |
| State | Published - 2001 |
| Externally published | Yes |