Working well with your healthcare team

A good relationship with your doctor can make a big difference to your health. If you are able to communicate honestly, he or she will be better able to prescribe a programme of treatment and care that is best for you.

To help your doctor, it is a good idea to think in advance of the questions you would like to ask and of any concerns you might wish to discuss.

What will my doctor ask me?

Before the first visit to your doctor, it can be useful to thinking about the following questions. Many people find it best to take along a written note of things they want to say, so they feel well prepared and can easily provide the information. Your doctor might ask:

Do you have any relatives with Alzheimer's disease or other types of dementia?
Have you ever been treated for depression? Do any of your relatives suffer from depression?
Have you ever had a head injury? If so, when and how serious was it?
Do you or any of your family members have diabetes?
How often do you exercise?
Do you frequently interact with other people?
Do you have high cholesterol or high blood pressure?
Have you ever had any heart trouble?

What should I ask my doctor if am diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease?

If you are referred to a specialist who confirms a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease, ask if there are any lifestyle changes you could make which could help, such as giving up smoking or alcohol, or changing your diet. Further information is available in our healthy eating section.

You may also wish to ask your doctor:

What happens next and in the future. For example, you need to know if you should return for regular check-ups or if another healthcare professional will be responsible for monitoring your condition
Whether there are any local patient groups you can join

If you are not sure about your diagnosis and/or the treatment prescribed and think a second opinion might help, don't be worried about asking for one. Your doctor may be able to refer you to a specialist or another GP in the practice. A second opinion can help ensure that your treatment and care are successful.

It's important not to think that you are wasting your doctor's time if you have lots of questions and concerns. Your health is important, so if you do feel that you need more time with them you could always ask for a follow-up appointment.

Role of the pharmacist

If you and your doctor decide you need some medicines for your Alzheimer's disease, you may find that the healthcare professional you have the most contact with is your local pharmacist.

It's good to remember that your pharmacist is more than just someone who sells you your medication. A pharmacist is an expert on how medicines work and interact, and can advise you about any safety concerns - especially important if you're taking more than one medicine at the same time.

As part of the service to make sure your medicines are right for you and that you're getting the best from them, your pharmacist can offer you a free 'Medicines Use Review' (MUR). Find out more about the Medicines Use Review (PDF).

Navigate the NHS

Understanding how the NHS works - and what NHS services are available in your area - can help you to get the most out of your interactions with healthcare professionals. This will enable you to manage your Alzheimer's disease better and live your life in the best possible health.

See our guide to finding your way around the NHS (PDF)

Health tips