The following narrative describes the experiences and reflections of a fourth-year medical student who longitudinally cared for a patient with dementia in an outpatient geriatric psychiatry clinic and inpatient medicine unit. The student, through these experiences, emphasizes the importance of creating space for honest and realistic discussions, balanced with empathic support, when discussing dementia diagnoses with patients and families. In addition, she recognizes the importance of engaging families in these discussions to promote proactive care planning and reminding patients and families that they are not at fault for their disease.
© 2022 American Academy of Neurology.