My Dad Has Dementia

Over the holidays I went to spend some time with my family back in Texas.  Each time I go back it seems as if not much changes.  There may be a few additions to the family, but overall it feels the same time and time again.  This trip was a little different...  See my dad recently has been diagnosed with a form of dementia.  In additon, my brothers and I found out that he hasn't been taking his medication properly.  As a physician, this is frustrating to me. 

After the hustle and bustle of the holiday get togethers, I went to my dad's primary care physician to request his medical records and sign forms to allow me to speak with him.  The doctor was at the window on my arrival so he took us back to his office.  I wanted to ask a few questions about his medications.  As a naturopathic physician, I was puzzled to why he is not being monitored more closely and why he hadn't been referred to specialists for his dementia and blood sugar.  The doctor was very apathetic to my concerns.  He actually told me that my dad's condition was not a serious medical condition, yet a family problem.  This doctor didn't think a specialist was needed but stated, "If that is what you want, then I guess you can take him."  He went on to tell me that my dad has dementia and it is common and there isn't much you can do for it, except take his medication.  At this moment I realized what YOU may be feeling when YOU go and see your primary care physician.  I was so frustrated with my dad's doctor.  Besides this doctor lacking care and compassion, he wasn't even giving future options for care.  

If you live in or near a city that offers licensed naturopathic medicine you are BLESSED.  My dad lives in a semi-rural area of Texas where sick care is healthcare.  Naturopathic medicine isn't even licensed there.  Finding good quality care and healthy foods is dismal.  My dad does not want to progress any more than he already has so he has agreed to come for an extended stay in Spokane, WA with me.  To be honest, I am a little worried to break his social routine.  However, I am confident that eating a diet that I prescribe and cook for him will help control his blood sugar and cut the inflammation.  In addition to dietary changes, I will be hitting him hard with environmental medicine protocols.  I believe that dementia is a cumulative effect from our genes, lifestyle, and environment.  Therefore, addressing the whole person is key to slowing down progression and/or reversing symptoms.  

• Cognitive Nutritional and Herbal Supplements

• Detoxification Pathways

• IV Nutrients

• HBOT Therapy

I love my dad more than he will ever know.  It hurts so much to know the man that influenced my life is so confused.  My dad is aging as we all are, but restoring HIS quality of life and YOURS is why I do what I do.

This content is not intended to diagnose or treat your health conditions.  If you have any questions regarding your symptoms or health please contact your primary care physician.