“Old-Time” Doc Image Makes for Easier Elder Exams

Elderly patients with Alzheimer diseaseor dementia frequently refuseto be examined or have a physical.Try approaching such patients witha smile and the "classic" physician'swhite coat with all the trappings--includinga stethoscope. Even dementedpatients usually remember thisphysician persona of old--and oftenrespond with cooperation.-- Harold R. Gollberg, MD
   Asheville, NC