Thank you for that confirmation. I didn’t like her doctor much but I had no reason to think he was uninformed or incorrect about that. They don’t need a CT or PET scan to make a general diagnosis of dementia either. In fact I don’t believe that is possible but I’m open to correction there. A five minute Q&A test and five minutes of “grading” it is all that is necessary and it is quite accurate if the tester is trained to give it.
TE, I’m sorry you, and your mom are dealing with this horrible disease/condition. Both me parents (83 YO) are borderline at this time. For now, I have a good relationship with them. I know that the day will come when they become argumentative/combative. They know that too, and have asked me to “help” them when necessary. I will.
You may be referring to an MMSE (Mini Mental State Exam) used by professionals. I found one at http://www.health.gov.bc.ca/pharmacare/adti/clinician/pdf/ADTI%20SMMSE-GDS%20Reference%20Card.pdf
There are days I wonder if I could pass it. :)