Dementia Dilemma

[Rumor]

Hi barq-

So very sorry to hear about you and your family's troubles. Has your dad seen a neurolgist? My mother passed at the age of 85 from a combination of diabetes and alzheimers. It is a horrible thing to watch. The current medications can slow down the progression, but as you said, no cure.

I believe that people know when they are declining, in their own way. There came a time when my mother would get very nasty to her aide. The wonderful doctor gave her xanax, as needed. That is only a good plan if you want the person to be sedated all day. I had him prescribe 2mg. Haldol daily and the nastiness went away and she wasn't as unpleasant to be around. But by that point, I doubt that she knew what she was taking, as her capacities were so diminished. She did not have strokes or a heart attack. I truly believe that the diabetes accelerated the alzheimers. 

I think that you have to take care of yourself and prepare for the worse and hope for the best. Only then can you help your parents. Some folks enjoy the stimulation of adult day care, being around others, doing activities and most people won't remember the story your dad told the day before. Other folks prefer to isolate and give up on life. But either way, all the symptoms you describe, add up to dementia. Figure out how to take care of yourself.  Is there anything else you want to do or discuss with your dad, as now would be the time.

I am so very sorry, barq-I hope you guys have more good days than bad. Best always, Rumor