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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Does Cognitive Testing In Elders Require Complete Relinquishment From The Family?

I have a question on cogntivie testing for elders. Is it true that once this test has been complete the patient and family has not say on where the patient will live? The doctors take over without input from patient or family? My mom heard this yesterday and now refuses the test. We can not get her doctor to refer in-home care until this test is complete.
Mon, 29 Dec 2014
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Internal Medicine Specialist,  's  Response
That is not true. The cognitive test will show how well a person can think for themselves. If they are having problems with this, then family members can sign a paper for power of attorney to help the affected persons make decisions. In fact, your mother can fill out paperwork now such as a living will and power of attorney of what she wants and who in her family can speak for her if she becomes incapacitated. Maybe if she does this now, she can be assured that if problems show up on the test, she will have already made her wishes perfectly (and legally) clear. Doctors cannot act without input from family or patient unless the patient is totally incapacitated or a danger to themselves or others, and no family is around to speak for them. Hope this helps.
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Does Cognitive Testing In Elders Require Complete Relinquishment From The Family?

That is not true. The cognitive test will show how well a person can think for themselves. If they are having problems with this, then family members can sign a paper for power of attorney to help the affected persons make decisions. In fact, your mother can fill out paperwork now such as a living will and power of attorney of what she wants and who in her family can speak for her if she becomes incapacitated. Maybe if she does this now, she can be assured that if problems show up on the test, she will have already made her wishes perfectly (and legally) clear. Doctors cannot act without input from family or patient unless the patient is totally incapacitated or a danger to themselves or others, and no family is around to speak for them. Hope this helps.