The Conclusion of the Appointment

Dr. Tee first of all wanted to see us back in one month. (Pop made the appointment before we left the office.) Second, she wanted Mom to rule out possible physical causes for her memory loss by seeing a primary care physician and getting a urinary analysis, TSH (thyroid), CBC and Dif., plus a CT scan. (Mom chose a CT over an MRI, and I don't blame her a bit. Forty-five minutes in a tube did not appeal to her.)

The doctor gave her a prescription for an antidepressant and some samples of a more expensive pill called Seroquel. The second was to be used only in the event of extreme agitation and/or sleeplessness. When Mom continued to act as if she might or might not take the medication and follow the doctor's instruction, Dr. Tee explained it to her this way: I can help you maintain the status quo if you will do as I ask and take the medications. You and your husband will both feel better, and you'll be able to continue living in your home. Do you want to continue living where you live now? Yes? Well, then, you need to take the medication. And Pop, you need to see that she takes it.

In addition, Dr. Tee added a no-driving stipulation, 24-hour supervision (not to be by herself at all), and she must have help with her finances--no more handling her checkbook by herself. And Pop must get a different power of attorney. At this point, they still held each other's POA.

That concluded the appointment that lasted forever (well, almost). The three of us were exhausted, but we had one more appointment on the agenda for the day. Whew!