Doctor’s Letter for Dementia: When You Need One and How to Ask

Not everyone will need to acquire a letter for dementia. However, if you’re caring for a loved one with dementia, there may come a time when someone—a bank, a lawyer, an insurance company, or even a government agency—asks you for a letter confirming their diagnosis. This can feel like an overwhelming request, especially if you’re already navigating the emotional and practical realities of dementia care.

We will discuss what that letter is, why you might need it, and how to ask for one.

What Is a Doctor’s Letter for Dementia?

A doctor’s letter for dementia is a brief written statement from your loved one’s treating physician—typically a neurologist, geriatrician, or primary care doctor—confirming that the individual has been diagnosed with a form of dementia. It may include:

• The patient’s name and date of birth
• The date of diagnosis
• The diagnosing physician’s name and credentials
• A statement about the individual’s cognitive condition, and
• Whether the individual is capable of making decisions independently

It’s not a full medical record, but rather a summary document that serves as official confirmation of the diagnosis.

Why Would You Need One?

You might need this kind of letter in several situations, including:

• Estate Planning: To show the person lacks capacity to manage legal or financial decisions, which can activate a power of attorney or support a guardianship petition.
• Medicaid Planning: To support applications for long-term care coverage or waiver programs.
• Financial Institutions: Some banks or investment firms may require documentation before allowing an agent under a power of attorney to act.
• Medical Decisions: Doctors and hospitals should require two letters from different doctors before they allow you to act under a health care power of attorney.
• Insurance Claims: Long-term care or disability insurance claims often require medical confirmation of cognitive decline.
• Employment Leave or Caregiver Benefits: If you’re requesting FMLA or other caregiving leave, this kind of letter may be needed.

How to Ask for a Dementia Letter from a Doctor

Many families feel uncertain about how to make this request. Here are some tips:

1. Call the Doctor’s Office First

Explain that you need a letter summarizing your loved one’s dementia diagnosis for legal or financial planning purposes. Ask if they have a standard template or process for such requests.

2. Be Clear About What You Need

Let the provider know whether the letter should state:

• A diagnosis only
• An opinion about the person’s capacity to make decisions
• Both diagnosis and capacity assessment

This helps ensure the letter meets the requirements of whatever agency or institution is asking for it.

3. Ask if They Charge a Fee

Some offices may charge a small administrative fee for medical letters. It’s good to know up front.

4. Request It in Writing (Optional Sample Below)

Here’s a simple way to write the request:

Sample Request Email or Letter:

Dear Dr. [Last Name],

I am writing to request a letter confirming that [Full Name], DOB [xx/xx/xxxx], has been diagnosed with dementia. We need this documentation to assist with [brief explanation—e.g., legal, financial, or care-related needs].

If possible, please include whether [he/she/they] currently has the capacity to make independent decisions.

Thank you for your time and support.

Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Relationship to Patient]
[Phone Number]

Final Thoughts

Getting a letter from a doctor confirming a dementia diagnosis is often one of the first steps toward getting the right legal protections and support services in place. While it may feel like just another piece of paperwork, it can open the door to long-term care options, legal clarity, and peace of mind.

If you’re unsure how to use the letter or what to do next, consider speaking with one of our Elder Law Attorneys who can guide you through the next steps.