I think my mom has Alzheimer's

Hi Kim,

I am certainly no expert on Alz, but my dad has been declining with Alz for the last few years.

I believe that initially the doctor (neurologist?) attempts to rule out other causes for the memory problems. Alzhiemer's can't be diagnosed directly, it is a disease where they have to rule out other stuff and connect the dots so to speak.

Dad also has done several memory tests where the doc gives list of items and the patient is asked to repeat them a few minutes later. They do several tests like that.

You would do really well to contact your local Alzheimer's Association ASAP. They are a wealth of informaiton and you'll wish you had contacted them sooner.

Keep us posted!

Blessings!

Great Kim!! Keep us posted!

Blessings!

Make an appointment with a Neurologist,he will test her.

Oh Kim . . . that is great news. It's always best if the patient is her own advocate at the doc's office. I hope the doc is able to figure things out . . . and I hope it is something treatable.

I have to tell you that best bit of advice after dealing with Dad's alzheimers (my first encouter with the disease) is to enjoy your mom each day exactly the way she is that day. I have spent some beautiful days sitting with Dad while mom gets a break. I am building memories which I could never have thought possible given that he has this dreadful disease. I actually feel sadened for my siblings who just don't spend time with him.

Keep us posted Kim!!

Blessings!

Dear Kim,

So sorry to hear of your suspicions about your Mom.  My husband suffered from dementia...I guess we all call it Alzheimer's because it sounds better and people understand what you're referring to.  Alzheimer's is only one of several types of dementia.  Symptoms are all very similar.

With regard to your Mom's short-term memory:  I found it worked best not to argue with or correct my husband...or try to adjust him to reality.  Just agree with what your Mom says whenever you can.  (She'll forget in 3 minutes anyway.) 

You have to learn to lie judiciously.  It reduces her anxiety and your frustration

Please, please, if she asks about a deceased love one (like her mom or dad,) don't correct her.  She'll experience hearing about a death as if it were the first time and probably cry.

If she wants "to go home," just put her in the car and drive her around the block.  By the time you get home, she'll recognize the place.  Or not.  But it's worth a try.

Get a copy of "The 36-Hour Day" at your library or bookstore.

Thanks for your welcoming words, Lyn.  My husband died 9 years ago...and I'm just now coming out of my funk.  He was ill for about 10 years...the first 5 I was swimming in denial.  I have a lot of experience I'd be happy to share.  Most important is FIND A GOOD SUPPORT GROUP!!!

The ID bracelet gave me a lot of peace of mind.  I don't think you order thru the Alzheimer's Assn. anymore, but they can direct you to the right place.

Also, we had 2 teenage sons at the time...there's not a lot of support out there for kids.

It's difficult, isn't it, to restructure your relationship with someone you always looked up to...like your mother or your father or your husband. It's important to spend time meditating on that so you can reorganize your brain.  Sometimes you really want to lose your temper.  It helps to look at the humorous side.  My husband once asked me why I had a picture of his grandfather in my living room.  (Remembered Grandpa...but didn't remember me.)  I thought it was cute.  He also asked me to marry him almost every day.  That was pretty neat.

Thanks Snowy .......take care and God Bless .........Lyn

Thanks for your input kunal.......how are you doing ...God Bless .Lyn

Thanks Snowy for your input .....how are you anyways .......God Bless .....Lyn

I didnt know you were not eating what has been going on with you ...........you know better than that ..........hope things are not too bad for you hun,is Larry still at his job and liking it.......keep me posted will you .....Take care ......God Bless .......Lyn