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Regarding Diane's parent. The symptoms presented could be those of advancing PD; but, in all likelihood, they are symptoms of other neurological illness. Did the patient sustain any head trauma (the possibility of a blood clot, or even a brain tumor, exists). There are also progressive neurological conditions (such as "normal pressure communicating hydrocephalus") which can present in this way that are treatable and it is important to "push" for further medical evaluation. If you approach the doctor out of love and concern for your parent, I don't think that there will be any problems about "confidentiality" (after all, the doctor does not have to share *his* knowledge with you, you are sharing with *him* or her); and the "bottom line" is getting your parent the diagnostic tools that he needs. I will relate an anecdote which was "drummed into our heads" during training. "Uncle Charlie" was 85 years old and "sharp as a tack". Then, Charlie fell down the stairs and broke his hip. The hip fracture was fixed, but Charlie suddenly "became old"; and over some months, deteriorated to the point that he had to be put into a nursing home, where he died some months later. At autopsy, a subdural hematoma (blood clot on the brain) was found, a hematoma which Charlie sustained at the time of the fall (the course can be quite chronic); and, a problem which, had it been diagnosed, could have been surgically removed and Charlie would have returned to "sharp as a tack" status. Age means very little. *Any* personality change should be investigated carefully; there are many treatable causes for such. Please feel free to get back to me with the results of your efforts. As a physician, I would certainly *not* be offended if a relative took an interest in one of my patients. Best wishes, Bob -- ******************************************************** Robert A. Fink, M. D., F.A.C.S. Phone: 510-849-2555 Neurological Surgery FAX: 510-849-2557 2500 Milvia Street Suite 222 Berkeley, California 94704-2636 USA E-Mail: [log in to unmask] CompuServe: 72303,3442 America Online: BobFink "Ex Tristitia Virtus" ********************************************************