Anxiety & Alzheimers

Lyn,

How are you feeling this week??? I know you have been having a hard time for a while and wondered if things are any better. My question can wait . . . no need to answer today if you are feeling tired. . . just when you feel up to it.

Do you know how much anxiety a patient should experience before considering the use of medication for anxiety? My dad has a very hard time being away from home. He can enjoy some things sometimes . . . but even something like golfing at the driving range lasts only 10 - 15 minutes and he wants to go home. He seems desperate to get back there and then he has nothing to do. It is very hard for mom to shop, as she takes him with her and he steers the cart toward the checkout at every turn.

He is ok while we drive to one activity . . . but then he wants to get back to the house. If his doctor prescribed an anxiety med, could it be used 'as needed' or would it need to be an additional drug used every day??

Just wondering.

Thanks Lyn . . . I appreciate your help.

AR........almost all anxiety meds would contract with his AD..........I dont suppose if you were to have a chat with him prior to going anywhere that would reassure him that you are only going out for a bit and WILL be returning home will work ....I have just gone thru this with my Mom and she always has me take her places we get there and she wants to come home .......it can get frustrating for the caregiver I know but we have to remember to the AD person like Mom and your Dad that is the only FOR SURE thing they do know and thats home............ .there they are not out of their element and they have a "comfort zone " when at home as they do get anxious ....I would ask the doc but they will no doubt try to persuade no meds in this case.........unless Dad becomes angry or really abusive .......it sounds like he just wants to be at home where to him all is well..................sorry I couldnt help other than that,but if we give them those meds then it does interact with the AD and makes them worse in my opinion .You could try the reinforced we are going out for 2 hrs ,show him the time and make sure he knows what time you will be back and then make darn sure you are lol and after a few times Dad might be a little more calm when he knows when he will be home .......Give him a hug for me ...you take care and God Bless

Hey Lyn . . . How are you feeling this week???? I am a bit concerned about you.

(((((((((((Lyn))))))))))

I bet that does take a lot out of you. The weight loss doesn't sound too assuring either. Sorry, I know nothing about chron's except that I don't want to get CD. Ouch! You are in my prayers sister!!! I'll stop right now and pray for you.

Blessings!