Why a Dementia Diagnosis Can Be a Step Forward By David Torrez, PCOA Options Counselor DEMENTIA SUPPORT
groups, respite services, community programs, and disease-specific resources. It may also provide access to clinical trials, many designed for the earliest stages of cognitive impairment. These connections help
A dementia diagnosis can feel frightening, but having clear answers often creates more options, not fewer. When changes in memory, thinking, judgment, or daily functioning are evaluated early, the person and family gain valuable time to understand what is happening and decide what comes next. A thorough evaluation may identify medical conditions that can cause or worsen cognitive symptoms, including medication side effects, depression, sleep disorders, infections, thyroid problems, or vitamin deficiencies. When dementia is present, identifying its likely type and stage can help the healthcare team recommend appropriate treatment, manage related symptoms, and address other health conditions. Some treatments are most useful or available only during earlier stages of certain diseases. Early diagnosis also protects the person’s voice. While the individual can still clearly express preferences and participate in decisions, the family can discuss future care, living arrangements, finances, advance directives/powers of attorney, and end-of-life wishes. Planning ahead does not mean giving up hope. It means preserving choice, reducing uncertainty, and helping ensure future decisions reflect the person’s values. A diagnosis can connect families with education, care consultation, support
families understand what to expect and remind them that they do not have to manage the journey alone.
of life. Families need information in manageable amounts, written next steps, and time to ask questions. Following up is essential. A diagnosis should begin an ongoing care process and not end with a referral or a handout. Regular check-ins allow professionals to monitor changes, revisit safety, connect families with timely services, and recognize caregiver stress before a crisis. Acting early gives people living with dementia greater dignity and control while helping families prepare, adapt, and care with more confidence. For those first steps in seeking guidance, support, and services, PCOA offers free memory screenings and dementia care consultations by appointment or during walk-in hours: Mondays, 9:00 am–12:00 pm, and Thursdays, 1:00–4:00 pm. ◆ FOR MORE INFORMATION call the Resource Line at (520) 790-7262 or visit pcoa.org/ways-we-help/ dementia-capable-southern-arizona
Safety planning is another important benefit. Concerns involving driving, medication management, falls, wandering, firearms, cooking, frauds/scams, or living alone can be addressed gradually before an emergency forces rushed decisions. Minor changes made early are often less disruptive and easier for everyone to accept. Proactive Practice: Turning Diagnosis into Support Being proactive begins with noticing concerns and responding promptly before a crisis. Clinicians and service professionals should routinely ask about changes in memory and daily functioning, especially when individuals, families, or care partners report changes or known risk factors are present. Brief validated cognitive assessments can help determine whether a more complete evaluation is needed. Diagnosis conversations should be honest, transparent, sensitive, empathic, compassionate, and centered on what becomes possible: treatment, planning, support, safety, and continued quality
November & December 2026, Never Too Late | Page 11
Pima Council on Aging
Made with FlippingBook - Share PDF online