Recently diagnosed?

This will be a time of upheaval. You don’t need to have all the answers now, and you don’t need to take everything in at once. The way I received my own diagnosis left something to be desired. My doctor at Närhälsan called and said something like this: “You were right, you have Alzheimer’s. I’ll write you a prescription.” That was all.

What feels most important to you right now?

An Alzheimer’s diagnosis can raise many questions. You don’t need to tackle them in any particular order. Here are some areas that may matter to you. Haven’t been given a follow-up appointment? Insist on one.

What happens now?

What are the first steps? Who should you contact in the healthcare system? What would you like to ask at your next appointment? It can help to write down your questions so you don’t have to remember everything.

Insist that your healthcare team let you speak to a doctor. You have a terminal illness, so this is hardly an unreasonable request. Still, the healthcare system’s inflexibility and reluctance probably stem from a feeling that they have nothing to offer, whether to slow the disease or cure it. But a doctor may still have useful advice, especially if you have prepared some questions.

Feelings and reactions

There is no right or wrong way to react. You may feel worry, sadness, anger or relief at having an explanation. Your feelings may also change from day to day.