It can be frightening when elderly loved one starts to forget things, becomes confused, or acts differently. Most family members do not know what to do next – who to speak to, where to go, and how urgent the situation is – especially if this is their first experience with dementia.
In this article, we guide you through what steps to take and which professionals to consult. We will look at the roles of three lines of defense (key medical professionals) you may encounter:
- The General Practitioner (GP)
- The Geriatrician
- The Psychiatrist
Understanding who and when to call, can make all the difference in getting the right support at the right time.
What is Dementia?
Dementia is a complex, progressive disease that slowly affects cognitive function, behaviour, and daily life. There are different types of dementia, such as:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Vascular dementia
- Lewy body dementia
- Frontotemporal dementia
Each type can look different. Some may withdraw quietly, while others may behave oddly or become suspicious. Dementia also develops slowly over time, making early detection and treatment crucial.
Detecting signs of dementia sooner helps to manage the situation better.
When Should You Be Concerned?
Look out for these early or common symptoms:
- Memory loss – forgetting names or recent conversations
- Getting lost in familiar places
- Mood swings or irritability
- Trouble managing money or daily tasks
- Withdrawing from social contact
- Saying odd or inappropriate things
- Difficulty understanding time or dates
These could point to cognitive decline, social isolation, or even depressive symptoms, especially in older adults.
1. The General Practitioner (GP)
The First Person to Call
For most families, the journey begins with their trusted GP or family doctor. They are often a familiar face, making them the easiest to approach.
What the GP can do:
- Conduct a basic memory check, e.g. Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE).
- Rule out other causes like infections, medications, or vitamin deficiencies.
- Make referrals to the right specialist when needed.
While GPs play a key role in the early stages, they may not be trained to handle complex dementia cases in detail. If the GP suspects the patient to have dementia, the GP will refer the patient to a specialist.
2. The Geriatrician
Specialist in Elderly Care
Geriatricians focus on older adults and often deal with multiple age-related conditions. They are trained to handle more advanced dementia and other medical issues that may come with it, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, suffering from a stroke.
What the geriatrician can do:
- Provide a detailed assessment and diagnosis
- Review medications and manage side effects
- Coordinate long-term care for dementia and other health problems
For individuals in the moderate to severe stages, geriatricians offer a more personalised and effective approach to care. They can also advise on safety, fall prevention, and home adjustments.
3. The Psychiatrist
Expert in Mental and Behavioural Health
When behaviour becomes a concern, it’s time to involve a psychiatrist. This includes:
- Aggression or violence
- Hallucinations or paranoia
- Delusions or bizarre actions
- Depression or suicidal thoughts
What the psychiatrist can do:
- Diagnose mental health conditions related to dementia
- Prescribe medication to reduce distress and stabilise behaviour
- Support both the family and caregivers with coping strategies
Psychiatrists are often the last line of defense when the situation becomes too difficult to manage at home or in daycare settings.
Beyond the Clinic: Support Systems That Help
Getting the right medical help is only part of the solution. Families and caregivers also need practical support.
Senior daycare centres (also known as senior enrichment centres) offer structured programmes that keep older adults engaged and socially connected. These centres:
- Provide cognitive stimulation and physical activity
- Offer safe spaces for interaction and fun
- Give caregivers a break from full-time care duties
Concierge services can assist with transportation, medication reminders, errands, or companionship, helping seniors live more independently. These services are especially useful in urban areas with limited access to family support.
Community-based support groups also play a key role. They provide emotional support and helpful resources for families going through similar experiences.
Introducing regular social contact, mental activities, and gentle exercise can reduce symptoms of depression, slow down decline, and improve quality of life.
What Should You Do Next?
If you are not sure where to start, follow this simple path:
- Visit your GP for a memory screening and initial check-up.
- Get referred to a geriatrician if the symptoms are persistent or worsening.
- See a psychiatrist if your loved one shows signs of aggression, paranoia, or emotional distress.
- Explore local support like daycare services, home help, or community groups.
Expert Advice from Dr. Goh
Listen to Dr. Goh’s expert insights in this exclusive audio clip. He explains how early intervention, medical referrals, and teamwork between doctors can improve outcomes for both seniors and their families.
Important Note:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Senior daycare services are not substitutes for long-term medical care. Individuals with advanced dementia may require specialised nursing or residential care. Always consult your doctor or a trained health professional to determine the most suitable care path for your loved one.
