Preparing for a GP appointment about memory

Sudden change needs prompt attention

Confusion that appears over hours or days is different from memory changes that develop over months. Sudden confusion can be caused by infection, dehydration, pain or medication and should be discussed with a doctor promptly, or through emergency services if the person is acutely unwell.

Bring a dated note

• What you have noticed, with approximate dates and specific examples
• Whether it is constant or comes and goes, and whether it is worse in the evening
• Changes in sleep, appetite, weight, mood and hearing
• Any recent falls, illnesses, hospital stays or bereavement

Bring a medication list

Include everything: prescriptions, anything recently started or stopped, over-the-counter medicines and supplements. Medication is a common and reversible contributor to confusion.

Questions worth asking

• Could something treatable be causing this?
• What does assessment involve, and who carries it out?
• What should we do if behaviour becomes distressing?
• What local supports exist for the family now, while we wait?

This is not a diagnostic service

We do not assess memory or offer clinical opinions. This guide only helps you make the appointment more useful.

Sources

• The Alzheimer Society of Ireland — Dementia information, support and helpline
  Open the official source
• Health Service Executive (HSE) — HSE — health and social care services
  Open the official source