Free senior care guidance for Nassau and Suffolk County families. No cost to you, ever.
Call (934) 200-2603
Long Island Senior Advisor

We just got a dementia diagnosis

What to do in the first month, and what can wait longer than you think.

Quick answer

What to do in the first month, and what can wait longer than you think.

Get matched freeCall (934) 200-2603
Home›By Situation›We just got a dementia diagnosis

The first month after a diagnosis is mostly about slowing down. Very little has to be decided immediately.

Short answer

What to do in the first month, and what can wait longer than you think.

What to do, in order

  1. Slow down. Very little has to be decided this month.
  2. Get the specific diagnosis. Alzheimer's, vascular dementia, Lewy body and frontotemporal dementia progress differently and respond differently to medication.
  3. Do the legal work now, while capacity is clear. Power of attorney, medical power of attorney, directives.
  4. Call the Area Agency on Aging serving your county. Nassau County Office for the Aging (516-227-8900) or Suffolk County Office for the Aging (631-853-8200) -- both are also NY Connects access points.
  5. Understand what memory care will require later. New York requires SNALR certification, an add-on to an ALR license, specifically for dementia care -- not a separate license category.

Questions families ask

What happens after I make an Adult Protective Services report in Suffolk County?

Suffolk County APS caseworkers investigate allegations of abuse or neglect of impaired adults living in the community who depend on others for basic needs, and per the county's own published FAQ, caseworkers have 60 days to complete an assessment after intake. The investigation determines whether the person meets APS criteria and what services or protective interventions may be needed.

Is there a statewide phone number for adult protective services if I'm not sure whether to call Nassau or Suffolk directly?

Yes - New York maintains a statewide OCFS/HSCC number for adult services information and APS routing: 1-844-697-3505. This can help route a call correctly if you're unsure whether Nassau County Adult Protective Services (516-227-8395) or Suffolk County Adult Protective Services (631-854-3232) is the right direct line for your situation.

My parent is being discharged from a Northwell Health hospital on Long Island - who helps plan next steps?

Northwell Health is the largest healthcare system in New York State, with Long Island hospitals including North Shore University Hospital (Manhasset), Long Island Jewish Medical Center (New Hyde Park), Huntington Hospital, Glen Cove Hospital, Mather Hospital (Port Jefferson), South Shore University Hospital (Bay Shore), LIJ Valley Stream, and Peconic Bay Medical Center (Riverhead). Each hospital has its own discharge planning staff who coordinate a patient's transition to home care, rehabilitation, or a skilled nursing facility.

Not sure where to start?

Answer five questions and a local advisor will come back with senior care options in your area that actually fit your situation and budget. It is free, and there is no obligation.

Find care options
Find senior care — free