Well, we've gotten through the surgery, although not without issues. The surgery itself went well and Dad came through just fine. But am I wrong in how surprised I am at how dementia seems to throw most medical practitioners. Its like they've never run across it before and don't know quite how to fit it in their little procedures and rules.
Every medical person who entered the room where Dad was being prepared for surgery seemed not to know about his dementia, addressing him each time as if he could respond to their questions. They would then turn to me when nothing was forthcoming and I would have to repeat that he had dementia and that I would be answering any questions FOR him. How is it possible that something that is becoming so common is such a mystery to doctors? And I really hate having to say over and over again that Dad has dementia right in front of him! I don't know how much he understands but can't imagine it helps to hear over and over again. Why his overall diagnosis not written clearly on his chart is what I'd like to know.
It left me with the desire to open or help open a clinic staffed only with doctors who understand or have some experience with dementia. Not dementia specialist but regular doctors and surgeons, podiatrists, internal medicine, etc., that know how to deal with those with dementia. I know, I know, its a pipe dream but it seems like a good idea to me.
TBC
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment