Memory score of 74 for my Dad

[Popcorn1979]

Hi all, hoping for some advice. My dad (aged 73) went to a memory clinic yesterday after being referred by his GP. He did what I assume from doing some reading, was the addenbrooke test? He scored 74 which both he and my DM seem to think is an ok result (doctor didn't seem to have suggested this was overly worrying) and is being referred for a brain scan which might take 10-12 weeks. However everything I have read says below 82 is a strong indicator of dementia but I can't work out if 74 is a really worrying score?

I haven't said anything to my DPs as I guess it won't help to spend the next 10-12 weeks worrying about it and maybe thinking the score was ok is the best thing for the moment as not a lot we can do about it regardless! Just not sure if that is the right thing to do or if a score of 74 is a real concern and I should be pushing for scans sooner. I see my parents most weeks but dad if def showing signs but can sometimes seem ok (but getting lost, forgetting names etc) but mum has seen a lot more instances - throwing things out he shouldn't, putting things in weird places, forgetting plans and getting very anxious when she isn't around) and I am really worried now. Any advice gratefully received.

There's some interesting discussion in the comments to this:
www.drphilipmorris.com/assessing-memory-loss/

As to dementia, the advice I've had is keep blood pressure low, keep cholesterol levels low, keep active, and maintain social links. So encouraging all that might be useful while you're waiting for the scan.

I suspect your parents are scared stiff and clutching at straws. Reminding them that memory problems can be caused by other things (mineral/vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, infections) might enable them to be more positive about tests. Has he had the "memory bloods" done yet? CT scan might not be the end of the process - he might be referred for in depth neurological testing, so be prepared for the long haul.

Thanks for the reply meredint- really appreciate it. He has had bloods and was low in b12 but had a series of injections for that at end of last year and don't seem to have made any difference. Not sure if he has had more done - impossible to get information out of my parents!!!!
That article is really helpful though, thank you.
Think going to have to accept this could all take a while.....