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When elderly patients are brought in by their families for memory impairment, it's important to gather comprehensive information to understand the extent and nature of the memory issues. The following table outlines a structured approach to initial history taking, including key questions and areas of focus.
| Category | Questions/Focus Areas | Rationale/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Patient Information | Age and gender Relatives / Employment status / Retired | Basic demographic information. |
| Presenting Complaint | • What specific memory problems have been noticed? • When did these problems first appear? • Are the symptoms worsening? • Any unsafe behaviour as loosing keys ? wandering ? leaving gas hob open ? getting lost | Establishes the primary issues and their progression. |
| Medical History | • Does the patient have a history of any neurological conditions (e.g., stroke, Parkinson’s disease)? • Any history of head trauma? • Any history of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, or other chronic illnesses? | Identifies potential underlying medical conditions contributing to memory issues. |
| Medication Review | • What medications is the patient currently taking? • Any recent changes in medications? • Use of over-the-counter drugs or supplements? | Certain medications can affect cognitive function, and changes can trigger symptoms. |
| Functional Assessment | • Can the patient manage daily activities (e.g., cooking, cleaning, personal... |
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