Patients with dementia or Alzheimer’s diagnosis (and families) are often not told which may put them at a disadvantage for treatment and other planning options. The Alzheimer’s Association stated in a recent report that only 45% of people with a diagnosis of dementia are told about it by their provider versus 90% of people with cancer being informed. While medical professionals may be trying to save patients from stress, most patients and families found it helpful to be fully informed and able to explore options.
This dilemma was recently discussed in an article in the Washington Post. It is predicted that the incidence of dementia will grow along with our aging population, and while there is no known cure as of yet, we now know that life style changes and treatment can slow the progression in many instances.
Rosen & Spears would like to encourage consumers to let their medical providers know whether they want all information about diagnoses of dementia (for themselves, or for loved ones for whom they have responsibility), and to explore all options for early treatment and planning.
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Rosen & Spears is a plaintiff law firm which seeks to protect the rights of elders through nursing home neglect, medical malpractice, financial abuse of seniors, and other types of claims.
For more information, please contact us.
