Learning and sharing information to support loved ones with Alzheimer's and Dementia--
I recently spoke with a friend diagnosed with Early On-set Alzheimer’s. He described new symptoms that have begun to plague him. “Night Terrors” was the best he could manage to describe his fright-filled nights. At least, for a couple hours each night, as he sleeps, he is attacked by unbelievable terrors. Similar to a nightmare, [...]
It’s bad enough that Alzheimer’s disease robs the patient of their sense of smell, which can certainly impact the appetite; but it also affects people’s ability to realize they’re thirsty. The patient must be encouraged and reminded to drink plenty of liquids. Serving fruit and vegetable juices as well as water, soup, or yogurt at [...]
Alzheimer’s and Violent behavior – Why it happens, What to do Sometimes sufferers of Alzheimer’s become angry and aggressive, it doesn’t happen often but occasionally some patients become unruly and want to strike out. It happens for different reasons, and should be handled accordingly. New medication: In rare instances there may be a reaction to [...]
Shadowing is a behavior often seen in the later stages of Alzheimer’s or Dementia. To many care- givers, shadowing is the most intrusive of all the symptoms and behaviors of Alzheimer’s and Dementia. The patient literally becomes your perpetual “shadow”. They follow your every movement for every waking moment. It does not sound as disturbing [...]
Sundowning is often used to describe peculiar behavior of someone with Alzheimers during the evening hours when the sun has set and nightfall begins. Often, in middle to late stage Alzheimer’s they become restless and confused or disoriented during the evening hours. It can last from early evening until late into the night. When my [...]
