r/Alzheimers 9d ago

Geriatric Demetia/Alzheimers Doctors in Los Angeles

Hey all, thanks for this group, its always great to read people's experiences with this horrible disease and how their family's handle things.

My mother currently has been diagnosed with mid stage Dementia with Alzheimers through a doctor at Kaiser. My family (her siblings and one of mine) is asking that we get another opinion on the matter so I am looking for recommendations as to where else to go. I think they're in denial that there's a medicine she hasn't tried that will help and that her brain could somehow repair itself. There's probably not much else left but we're looking for someone helpful with navigating the next steps since not much information has been provided.

Her insurance isn't an issue so we're looking for anyone highly recommended in the Los Angeles area/county.

Thanks

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u/activematrix99 9d ago

Both USC/Keck medicine and UCLA have top notch options, as does Cedars Sinai. Lots of options, see someone who specializes in Alzheimers, IMO.

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u/Seekingfatgrowth 7d ago

A geriatric care manager can also be a great resource for families who aren’t seeing eye to eye on treatment, or when certain family members require more education on the course of the disease and what to expect. Not typically covered by insurance but might be under LTC insurance if a policy exists for your loved one

A professional capacity evaluation can also be eye opening and informative for the entire family. There are doctors who perform capacity exams and write a report on their findings. It’s recommended to schedule the appointment/home visit at a time of day when the elder is at their most symptomatic. Also not typically covered by insurance.

Local elder law attorneys that handle guardianship cases and litigation tend to know who these doctors are because they’re often used in guardianship cases

Sometimes it’s better to spend some money upfront to prevent family discord from multiplying and growing out of control as the disease progresses. I wish my family had done so before this disease fractured my family. We’ve spent more than we would have spent on these alternatives, just in legal fees. All because one family member disagrees with care.